How to collect your DNA sample

DNA Kit Collection and Registration Instructions

Table of Contents:

  1. US Customers
  2. Mexico Customers
  3. Non-US (International) Customers
  4. Saliva Sample Kits (Non-US orders placed before August 1, 2024)

IMPORTANT: Please do not eat, drink, smoke, brush your teeth, or chew gum for at least 1 hour before collecting your sample. If you forget, please email us to purchase a replacement kit.

1) US Customers: Buccal (Cheek) Swab DNA Test Kit

The DNA kit includes two soft swabs, which are used to collect cells from the inner lining of your cheek (buccal cells).

Before You Swab:

  1. Verify Your Vial Numbers

    Ensure the numbers on both vials match.

    If they do not, please contact us at support@selfdecode.com.

  2. Register Your Kit

    Go to www.selfdecode.com/app/register to register your DNA kit. Your unique barcode is located on the side of your vial.

Collection Instructions:

  1. Follow the provided instructions to collect your cheek cell samples:

  1. Place the samples in the biohazard bag and then into the return envelope.

Mailing Your Kit:

  • Return: Use the prepaid USPS return envelope to mail your kit back to us.
  • Processing Time: Results will be ready within 3-5 weeks. You will receive an email notification once your results are available.

2) Mexico Customers: Dry Swab DNA Test Kit

  1. Verify Your Kit

    The kit number on the plastic pouches should match the kit number on the box. If the kit

    numbers do not match, please contact our Customer Service team at

    support@selfdecode.com.

    Register Your Kit

    Go to www.selfdecode.com/app/register to register your DNA kit. You’ll find your unique barcode on the side of your vial.

    Sample Collection Instructions

    Follow these steps carefully to collect your DNA sample:

    • Step 1: On a clean surface, open one swab and set the pouch aside for later.
    • Step 2: Insert the swab into your mouth and scrape the inside of your cheek for 45 seconds, rotating the swab firmly.
    • Step 3: Place the swab on a clean paper towel and let it air-dry for at least 30 minutes. Ensure it is completely dry before proceeding.
    • Step 4: Repeat steps 1 and 2 on the opposite cheek using the second swab. Be sure the two swabs do not touch each other.
    • Step 5: Once dry, return each swab to its original pouch and seal them.
    • Step 6: Place the sealed pouches into the provided return envelope, seal it, and mail it back.
  2. Mailing Instructions

    Follow these instructions to mail your kit back to us.

Note for customers in Mexico:

Return labels are not provided. You will need to purchase your own return label from a courier of your choice.

3) International (Non-US) Customers: Buccal (Cheek) Swab DNA Test Kit

Registration and Sample Collection:

  1. Register Your Kit

    Follow the instructions provided in your kit box to register your DNA kit

    1. Kits can be easily registered at www.selfdecode.com/app/register/
  2. Collect Your Sample

    Scan the QR code on the kit box or visit www.selfdecode.com/en/instructions/ for detailed collection instructions.

  3. Send Sample

    Insert the swab into the clear plastic bag, and fold over the top to seal the bag with the barcode sticker provided in your kit. Place the sealed bag into the mailer envelope and mail it back to us.

Mailing Your Kit:

Please be aware that we are unable to provide return labels for some countries at this time.

For a complete list, and more information, click here.

4) Saliva Sample DNA Test Kit

Non-US customers who ordered before August 1, 2024 will receive a saliva collection DNA test kit.

  • The kit contains a sterile, screw-top collection tube with a stabilizing solution. It also includes a funnel that attaches to the collection tube to easily transfer the saliva into the tube without spillage.
  1. Register Your Kit

    Open the box and visit https://selfdecode.com/app/register/ to register your kit

    1. You can find the sample barcode on your tube.
  2. Collect Your Sample

    Carefully read the instruction manual (located inside the kit box) and collect your sample.

Mailing Your Kit:

If you have any questions about the collection process, please do not hesitate to

reach out to our support team!

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