Transferring DNA Tests To FamilyTreeDNA (FTDNA)

If you have been tested at Ancestry, 23andMe, or MyHeritage, you should consider transferring your results to FamilyTreeDNA. This gives you exposure to another group of people who have had their DNA tested, as well as gives you access to some additional genetic tools that you may find useful in your research.

Two things to know before you transfer:

  1. There is a small fee to unlock part of your results (myOrigins, chromosome browser, chromosome painter, Y-DNA haplogroup, and ancientOrigins), but you may decide you don’t need to pay it. Some of the tools you will want are included in the free transfer.
  2. FamilyTreeDNA only accepts the following DNA data files:
    • AncestryDNA array V1 (May 2012 – April 2016)
    • AncestryDNA array V2 (May 2016 – present)
    • MyHeritage DNA (results received between March 1, 2019 and May 7, 2025)*
    • 23andMe V3 (December 2010 – October 2013)
    • 23andMe V4 (November 2013 – September 2017)
    • 23andMe V5 (August 2017 – present)

*If you tested at MyHeritage after May 7, 2025, FTDNA is currently unable to accept the upload. FTDNA is working to accept MyHeritage transfers as soon as possible.

How to transfer to FTDNA as a new customer

NOTE: If you have an existing YDNA or mtDNA kit at FTDNA, follow the instructions for current customers further down this page.

1. Go to www.familytreedna.com.* In the upper left menu, click on Upload DNA Data.

FTDNA homepage with Update DNA Data menu option circled

2. A step-by-step guide will appear to upload your DNA data. Fill it out with the information for the person whose test results you are transferring.

If you already have a FTDNA account for the person whose data you are trying to upload, then make sure you use the “Already have an FTDNA account” button so you can link this autosomal data to your current FTDNA account. (If the uploaded data is for your dad, but your mom has an account at FTDNA, DO NOT LINK THEM.)

4. You’ll receive an email (to the email address you entered with your FTDNA sign in information) with your FTDNA kit number and temporary password.

How to transfer to FTDNA as a current customer

Follow these directions if you already have a FamilyTreeDNA kit.

1. Sign in to your FTDNA account.

2. In the upper righthand corner in the navigation bar, click Add Ons & Upgrades. 

3. On the Add Ons page, scroll down to DNA Transfer Options. In the Autosomal Transfer section, click Transfer Now.

4. You’ll be directed to the autosomal DNA transfer page to complete your upload.

Get the most out of transferring to FamilyTreeDNA

Take the FamilyTreeDNA (Family Finder) Tour with Your DNA Guide! You’ll be escorted you through the essential components, settings and concepts for using your DNA to explore your Family Finder (autosomal) test results at FTDNA. Our series of prerecorded video instructions, hands-on experience, workbook activities and a research log will help you apply what you learn to your own test results. 

Learn More about the FTDNA Tour