The DPS is required to provide a reasonable number of sample collection kits to criminal justice or law enforcement agencies in this state, which are required by statute to collect offender samples at no cost to those agencies. These kits are only for the purpose of collection of offender samples under this statute and not to be used for suspect sample collections in a criminal case.
The collection kit supplied by DPS shall be used to collect the appropriate sample in accordance with the kit instructions and shall include the required fingerprints.
A sample collection kit will consist of any items necessary for sample collection, including instructions and any other item designated by the Director.
Sample Collection Training
The DPS CODIS Program provides training material and workshops to agencies in Texas regarding the collection of DNA buccal samples. The CODIS DNA Procedural Guidelines located in Chapter 19 of the Crime Laboratory Division Manual contains information about training, obtaining kits, determination of applicability, and sample collection procedure.
DNA Buccal Samples
Initial training for the collection of DNA buccal samples will consist of viewing a training video and reading the DNA procedural guidelines. The training video demonstrates the use of the DNA buccal collection kit.
DNA Buccal Collection Training Video (New)
DNA Buccal Collection Training Video (Old)
The DNA Buccal Database Card, which is part of the kit, requires that the collector certifies that they have been properly trained in DNA buccal sample collection procedures. When the collector signs the card, they are certifying that they have watched the training video and/or read the instructions in the collection kit. The signature of the collector also certifies that the DNA specimen was taken in compliance with current DPS guidelines.
An agency may request additional training with the DPS CODIS Program. That training would consist of familiarization with the collection kit and training on the proper way to complete the DNA data card.
If an agency repeatedly submits unusable specimens, the DPS CODIS Program may determine that one-on-one training is needed for that agency.
Sample Collection Records and Retention
An agency collecting a DNA specimen from an eligible individual shall maintain a record of the collection for a period of three years from the date of collection. In addition, the DPS State CODIS Laboratory shall also maintain a DNA sample and record as required by statute and according to approved CODIS laboratory procedures.
More Information
- Texas administrative rules (Subchapter C) Governing sample collection by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice
- Texas administrative rules (Subchapter D) Governing sample collection by the Texas Juvenile Justice Department
- Texas administrative rules (Subchapter E) Governing sample collection by the Texas Community Supervision Agency