Paternal Ancestry Test (Y-DNA)
$119
Where do your ancestors come from?
The paternal ancestry test can help answer that question! We test your Y-DNA to trace your paternal origins (your father’s, father’s, father’s … origins) to find out where your ancestors once lived. In the process, we can help to identify long-lost relatives. This test is especially useful for people who have been adopted and wish to find biological relatives.
- Uncover Your Paternal Lineage: Trace your direct father-to-son ancestral line with Y-DNA analysis.
- Detailed Ancestry Report: Receive a full genetic report to explore your paternal family history.
- For Males Only: The Y-chromosome is passed exclusively from father to son, so only biological males can take this test.
How it Works
Order your DNA Kit
Place your order online, and we’ll send you a DNA test kit with everything you need to collect your samples.
Collect DNA Samples
Follow the detailed, step-by-step instructions to collect DNA samples using the provided mouth swabs.
Lab Analysis
Use the provided return envelope to mail your DNA samples to our laboratory for analysis.
Receive Results
Download your results from your secure online account as soon as they’re ready.
What is Y-DNA?
Y-DNA refers to the DNA on the male sex chromosome, the Y chromosome. We each have 23 pairs of chromosomes: 22 pairs of autosomal chromosomes and two sex chromosomes, the X and Y chromosomes. Females inherit an X chromosomes from each parent (but no Y chromosome). Males inherit an X chromosome from their mother and a Y chromosome from their father. Very little recombination (mixing) occurs between the X and Y chromosomes in males. Hence the Y-DNA essentially remains unchanged through the paternal line, providing an incredibly useful way to trace paternal ancestry.
What do we test?
Y-DNA contains both slow and fast-changing genetic markers. DNA SNP chips (used by many other ancestry companies) detect only slow-changing SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms). These slow-changing markers are excellent for tracing ancient ancestry, but are not useful for anything recent (i.e. the last few hundred years). If you want to use your DNA to help build your family tree, you need to look at fast-changing genetic markers – STRs (short tandem repeats). Our ancestry test detects STRs found on your Y chromosome.
You can choose to analyze 20, 44 or 101 different Y-DNA STRs with our paternal ancestry. The choice is yours! However, the more markers you choose to analyze, the higher the resolution will be in detecting paternal ancestry. Compare your Y-DNA to published data from hundreds of famous historical figures and ethnic groups around the world. Our test even allows two males to pinpoint the number of generations since they have shared a common ancestor.
Who can take this test?
Any male of any age can take this test. As females do not carry Y-DNA this test can not be conducted on a female DNA sample. Females carry two X chromosomes, while males have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome. If you are a female, and wish to trace your paternal ancestry, you can choose to test a direct male line relative, such as your father, brother or a paternal uncle.
Other tests you may be interested in
We also offer a Maternal Ancestry test to trace your maternal line (your mother’s, mother’s, mother’s… lineage). Order both a paternal and maternal ancestry test together in our Ancestry Combo to learn even more about your ancestral origins. NOTE: Only males are able to take the Paternal Ancestry test and the Ancestry Combo.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Paternal Ancestry Test?
This test traces your paternal lineage by analyzing the Y-chromosome (Y-DNA), which is passed from father to son virtually unchanged. It’s a powerful tool to explore the history of your father’s line and can even help find living relatives who share a common paternal ancestor.
Who can take the Paternal Ancestry Test?
Only biological males can take this test, as they are the only ones who have a Y-chromosome (Y-DNA)5. Females who wish to trace their paternal lineage must have a male relative from their father’s side, such as a brother, father, or uncle, take the test.
How do I provide a DNA sample?
Providing a sample is quick and completely painless. The kit we send you includes a simple mouth swab that you use to collect cells from the inside of your cheek. You can do it yourself in just a few minutes at home.
What can I learn from my Y-DNA results?
Your results will reveal your Y-DNA haplogroup, which connects you to a specific paternal clan and the ancient migratory paths of your forefathers. The report will also include a list of genetic matches in our database, potentially connecting you with distant cousins on your father’s side.
How is this different from an mtDNA test?
This test specifically tracks the paternal line (from father to son) using Y-DNA6. An mtDNA test tracks the maternal line using mitochondrial DNA and can be taken by both males and females7. To trace both lines, a male can take both tests.
Can this test find my living relatives?
Yes, one of the most exciting features of the Y-DNA test is its ability to identify genetic relatives. Your Y-DNA markers are compared against our extensive database, and we provide you with a list of individuals whose Y-DNA matches yours, indicating a shared paternal ancestor.
Is your testing facility reputable and accredited?
How will I receive my results?
How long does it take to get results?
Once your sample is received by our laboratory, processing usually takes 6-8 weeks. You will receive an email notification when your results are ready, and you can access your detailed report through a secure online portal.
Is the testing process confidential?
Yes, your confidentiality is guaranteed. From the discreet packaging of the test kit to the secure delivery of your results, we ensure your privacy is protected every step of the way.
Why DNA Tests Direct?
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