Drugstore Paternity Testing Vs. Online DNA Testing Kits

Many major pharmacies and retailers—such as Walgreens, Walmart, CVS, Target, and Rite Aid—sell at-home DNA test kits on their shelves. These kits may appear inexpensive and convenient at first glance, but it’s important to understand what you are actually purchasing.

In most cases, pharmacy DNA kits from brands such as Identigene, HomeDNA, or Reveal include only the DNA collection materials. The laboratory testing fees are typically not included and must be paid separately after purchase. Once those additional fees are added, the total cost is often higher than expected.

Additionally, pharmacy DNA kits are generally limited to informational or curiosity paternity testing only. They are not designed for expanded relationship testing (such as siblingship or grandparent testing), nor are they suitable for legal purposes.

By contrast, ordering online from PaternityUSA.com allows you to select the specific type of relationship test you need—such as paternity, sibling, grandparent, aunt/uncle, or maternity testing—with laboratory analysis included upfront and clear pricing from the start.

While a drugstore DNA kit may seem convenient, it is not always the most comprehensive or cost-effective option once all factors are considered. Ordering directly from PaternityUSA.com provides clarity, broader testing options, and confidence in both the process and the results.

Thinking of Buying a Drugstore DNA Test VS an Online DNA Testing Kit?

Purchasing a DNA test from a local pharmacy can seem convenient, but it’s important to understand the differences before deciding.

What to know before buying a drugstore DNA kit:

• Laboratory analysis is typically not included. Pharmacy kits usually cover only the DNA collection materials; lab fees are paid separately after purchase.

• Total cost is often higher than expected. Once additional lab fees are added, the overall price may exceed that of an online testing provider.

• Testing is generally limited to informational paternity only. Pharmacy kits are not designed for expanded relationship testing or legal use.

How online DNA testing differs:

• Clear, upfront pricing that includes laboratory analysis

• Free, expedited two-way shipping of DNA collection kits

• Multiple testing options available, including paternity, maternity, sibling, grandparent, and aunt/uncle – avuncular testing

• Results typically delivered within about two business days after samples arrive at the laboratory

Many clients contact us after purchasing a pharmacy DNA kit without realizing that laboratory testing fees were not included. Ordering directly allows you to send your samples to the lab without extra steps, saving both time and cost while providing broader testing options.

If you have already purchased a DNA collection kit from a pharmacy—such as Walgreens, Walmart, CVS, Target, or Rite Aid—or from another provider, we may still be able to assist. Our knowledgeable case managers are available to answer questions, explain your options, and help you move forward with confidence. Please call us at 877-786-9543, or email us.