How to Collect Your DNA Sample

DNA Kit Collection and Registration Instructions

Collecting your DNA sample is quick and easy. Follow the instructions for your region to register your kit and collect your sample correctly.

Before You Collect Your Sample: Do not eat, drink, smoke, brush your teeth, or chew gum for at least 1 hour before collecting. If you forget and need to start over, email support@selfdecode.com to purchase a replacement kit.

Have questions about the collection process? Reach out to our support team at support@selfdecode.com.

US Customers: Buccal (Cheek) Swab DNA Test Kit

Your DNA kit includes two soft swabs to collect cells from inside your cheek and two vials to preserve your sample.

Before You Swab

  1. Verify Your Vial Numbers: Make sure the numbers on both vials match. If they don't, contact support@selfdecode.com.
  2. Register Your Kit: Go to www.selfdecode.com/app/register to register your kit. Your unique barcode is on the side of your vial.

Collection Instructions

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

  2. Place the samples in the biohazard bag, 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 2-3 weeks after delivery to the lab. You'll receive an email when your results are available.

Non-US WGS Kits and Mexico Customers: Dry Swab DNA Test Kit

Before You Start

  1. Verify Your Kit: The kit number on the plastic pouches should match the kit number on the box. If they don't match, contact support@selfdecode.com.
  2. Register Your Kit: Go to www.selfdecode.com/app/register to register your kit. Your unique barcode is on the side of your vial.

Collection Instructions

  1. On a clean surface, open one swab and set the pouch aside for later.
  2. Insert the swab into your mouth and scrape the inside of your cheek for 45 seconds, rotating the swab firmly.
  3. Place the swab on a clean paper towel and let it air-dry for at least 30 minutes. Make sure it's completely dry before proceeding.
  4. Repeat steps 1-2 on the opposite cheek using the second swab. Keep the two swabs from touching each other.
  5. Once dry, return each swab to its original pouch and seal them.
  6. Place the sealed pouches into the provided return envelope, seal it, and mail it back.

Mailing Your Kit

Learn how to return your DNA kit here.

Follow these instructions to mail your kit back to us from Mexico.

Note: Return labels are not provided for customers in Mexico. You'll need to purchase your own return label from a courier of your choice.

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

Registration and Sample Collection

  1. Register Your Kit: Follow the instructions in your kit box or visit www.selfdecode.com/app/register/.
  2. Collect Your Sample: Scan the QR code on your kit box or visit www.selfdecode.com/en/instructions/ for detailed collection instructions.

  3. Prepare Your Sample for Mailing: Insert the swab into the clear plastic bag and fold over the top to seal it with the barcode sticker provided in your kit. Place the sealed bag into the mailer envelope.

Mailing Your Kit

  • Request Your Pre-Paid Return Label: Visit www.selfdecode.com/app/request-return-label/ to request your return label.
  • Processing Time: Results will be ready within 2-3 weeks after delivery to the lab. You'll receive an email when your results are available.

Note: We're unable to provide return labels for some countries at this time. Check the complete list.

Ordered Before August 1, 2024? Saliva Sample DNA Test Kit

Please see this article for what to do if you have a saliva-based DNA test kit: SelfDecode DNA Collection: Cheek Swab or Saliva?

Get Even More Insights

Once you receive your results, consider the Ultimate Bundle for access to all of our premium reports in one easy purchase at a discount. The Ultimate Bundle includes:

You can purchase the Ultimate Bundle directly from your dashboard, or email support@selfdecode.com for sample reports or questions.

Meet Decody, Your AI Health Coach

Once your results are ready, meet Decody—your personal AI guide to understanding your genetic health. Decody is designed to provide clear, easy-to-understand insights tailored to your DNA data. Ask Decody anything, from understanding your reports to exploring new health insights.

Learn more about DecodyGPT.

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