Are there differences in DNA test results obtained from using buccal swabs, blood, tissues or other samples?
No. Since every cell in the body contains the same DNA, we can use any cell type that comes from the human body.
DNA is very pervasive and is left behind on many things. This table will aid you in acquiring DNA that can be used for testing. If you have any questions about any or these samples in the table or a sample that may not be listed, please feel free call us toll free at 866-437-1597. Alternatively, you can e-mail your question to a staff scientist at
The best way to store any of these samples is dry. Place the sample in a plain paper envelope. DO NOT use plastic bags. Please fill out the Information/Order form (PDF) if you are going to send us any of these samples.
To view the order form you will need a copy of Adobe®Acrobat® Reader". If you have access to the Internet, please click here to download the file. Adobe Acrobat Reader is a free.
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Samples Suitable For Forensic DNA Testing
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DNA Sources
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Location
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Success rate*
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Surcharge
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Blood
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Band Aids, feminine products, diabetic glucose sticks
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****
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$10.00
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Semen/Sperm
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Condoms, undergarments, clothing, wash cloths, etc.
Liquid semen: absorb suspected semen sample onto a clean cotton cloth or swab. Air-dry the cloth or swab for 10-15 minutes.
Dried semen stains: adsorb semen stain onto a clean cotton cloth or swab moistened with distilled water. Air-dry the cloth or swab for 10-15 minutes.
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****
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$10.00
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Hair
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Roots or follicles must be attached. Hair from a brush or comb will not work. We need at least 3-5 hairs.
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***
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$10.00
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Teeth
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Molar, premolar or canine preferred.
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***
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$100.00
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Dentures
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**
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$10.00
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Toothbrush
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Air-dry the toothbrush for 10-15 minutes.
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***
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$10.00
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Razors
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Place razor in a paper envelope
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***
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$10.00
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Toothpick
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***
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$10.00
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Clothing
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Bandanna, baseball hat, sweat stained clothing
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**
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$10.00
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Licked Envelope
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***
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$10.00
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Bone
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3-5 inches of long bone such as the fibula or femur.
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***
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$100.00
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Saliva
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Liquid saliva: absorb suspected sample onto a swab. Air-dry the swab for 10-15 minutes.
Dry saliva: cut the sample of suspected saliva from the objects with a clean sharp instrument. Pack to prevent stain removal by abrasive action or packaging materials during shipping.
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***
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No charge
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Used Kleenex
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****
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$10.00
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Ear wax
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Use a Q-tip to acquire the samples
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***
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$10.00
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Electric Razor Clippings
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Place razor clippings in a paper envelope.
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***
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$10.00
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Cigarette butts
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We need 1-2 butts
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***
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$10.00
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Paraffin embedded tissue
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Often found in pathology labs
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**
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$10.00
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Chapstick
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**
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$10.00
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Gum
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Be careful handling the gum. Do not touch the gum with you fingers. Try not to contaminate the gum with your DNA. Sugar-free gum is preferred.
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***
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$10.00
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Post Morteum Tissue
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Coroner Samples, Funeral Homes
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***
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$10.00
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Cheek cells
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Use a Q-tip to acquire the samples
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****
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No charge
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Dental floss
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Try not to contaminate the dental floss with your DNA. Do not touch the floss with your fingers.
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***
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$10.00
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Urine
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At least 50 mLs or about 2 ounces
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**
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$10.00
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*=marginal, ****=excellent
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