The DNA paternity test is done to prove whether a child is the daughter or son of a person by making a comparison of the DNA of both the parents. There are different companies that provide services for paternity testing. Generally, there are three kinds of testing companies that offer the test. The first kind are those companies which specialize in testing and have their own testing lab to perform the test. In the second category, there are those companies that provide service of others like a broker. In the third category, there are laboratories which perform the paternity test as a side job.

A variety of DNA testing protocols are used worldwide. They analyze a small portion of DNA that varies from person to person. Tests are conducted using molecular methods such as a polymerase chain reaction or with DNA arrays and DNA chips.

A mitochondria DNA test is used to trace the maternal history of a person. Mitochondrial DNA passes from the mother to her children (both male and female) without any change. By examining the similarities of this primitive DNA between two people, the tester can determine if they are related along maternal family lines. Because the DNA does not change when it is passed on from mother to child, testing can take place even if a generation is not available to participate in the testing.

Clearer than fingerprints, DNA test results are considered as today's one of the most powerful tool in determining criminals based on biological evidences found in crime scenes. In rape cases, semen samples, skin scrapings, or suspect's hair found in victim's fingernails are used to determine identity of perpetrators. As far as acquitting the innocent and charging the guilty is concerned, bridging peoples lives and settling domestic disputes, the constant complain against technology has found its justification in biomedical technology and DNA testing.