Mobile testing available throughout Maryland — call (410) 881-7444
DNA Collection

Avuncular DNA Test

Confirm whether a biological aunt or uncle relationship exists between an adult and a child — a powerful option when the alleged parent is unavailable for testing.

$320flat price
all collection, admin & lab fees included
Family gathering — avuncular DNA test Baltimore Maryland
Quick Summary

Confirms a biological link to a child through an aunt or uncle.

Price
$320 · all fees included
Results
3–5 business days
Court-admissible
Optional (chain-of-custody available)
Availability
Mobile across Maryland · same or next-day

What Is a Avuncular DNA Test?

An avuncular DNA test (from the Latin "avunculus," meaning uncle) determines the probability that a biological aunt or uncle relationship exists between an adult and a child. Because an aunt or uncle shares approximately 25% of their DNA with a niece or nephew, the statistical confidence of this test is lower than a direct parent-child test. Results are significantly strengthened by including the child's mother in the test. This test is often used when the alleged father is unavailable but one of his siblings is willing to test.

How It Works

1
Identify Participants
The alleged aunt or uncle and the child are required. Including the child's mother significantly strengthens the analysis.
2
Buccal Swab Collection
A painless cheek swab is collected from each participant at our Baltimore location or via mobile visit.
3
Genetic Marker Comparison
The laboratory compares the DNA of the aunt or uncle with the child across 21+ genetic markers.
4
Probability Calculation
A statistical analysis produces a likelihood ratio indicating whether an avuncular relationship is more or less probable than no relationship.
5
Written Results
The accredited laboratory issues a formal report for personal or legal reference.

Who Is This Test For?

  • Families where the alleged father is deceased, missing, or unwilling to test
  • Aunts and uncles seeking to establish biological connection for guardianship purposes
  • Estate proceedings requiring proof of biological relationship
  • Individuals establishing family connections after adoption or separation

What to Bring / How to Prepare

  • ✓Valid government-issued photo ID for all participants (aunt/uncle and child)
  • ✓Including the child's mother is strongly recommended — it significantly increases accuracy
  • ✓Minor children must be accompanied by their legal guardian
  • ✓Payment method — pricing based on number of participants
  • ✓Call ahead to confirm the test is appropriate for your specific family situation

Turnaround Time & Results

Results typically in 3–5 business days from laboratory receipt of samples.

Ready to Get Started?

Book your appointment online or speak with a SafeTouch team member about your specific situation. We'll walk you through every step and answer any questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the child's mother's sample so important for this test?
Because a child inherits DNA from both parents, including the mother's DNA allows the laboratory to identify which of the child's genetic markers came from the mother — and which must have come from the father's side. This makes it much easier to spot DNA shared with the alleged aunt or uncle.
How accurate is an avuncular DNA test?
With the mother's sample included, accuracy is good and results are generally conclusive. Without the mother, results may fall into a lower probability range. The independent accredited laboratory clearly expresses the likelihood ratio and level of confidence in the written report.
Can an avuncular test be used for legal or custody purposes?
Yes, if a legal chain-of-custody collection is specifically requested at booking. AABB-accredited avuncular results can be used in guardianship, custody, estate, and some immigration proceedings. Call to discuss your specific legal requirement.
What if testing a sibling of the alleged father isn't possible?
If no siblings are available, a grandparentage test using the alleged father's parents may be an alternative — or we may be able to expand testing to include cousins or other relatives. Our team will help you identify the best path forward.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations must be made at least 48 hours in advance to reschedule without a fee. Cancellations or reschedules made within 48 hours of the appointment are subject to a rescheduling fee. No-shows (no call, no appearance) require rebooking before a new appointment can be confirmed. We do not offer refunds on completed tests or services. Please call us at (410) 881-7444 as soon as possible if you need to reschedule.

Book This Test

Transparent flat price
$320
Collection, administrative & laboratory fees included. See full pricing →

Same-day and next-day appointments often available. Mobile collection throughout Maryland.

Book Appointment →Get a Quote (410) 881-7444
Turnaround Time

Results typically in 3–5 business days from laboratory receipt of samples.

Who Orders This Test
  • Families where the alleged father is deceased, missing, or unwilling to test
  • Aunts and uncles seeking to establish biological connection for guardianship purposes
  • Estate proceedings requiring proof of biological relationship
  • Individuals establishing family connections after adoption or separation
Get a Quote