The study examined the identification methods used for commonly encountered biological trace evidence types in forensic laboratories. Results suggest that while there have been tremendous leaps in the scientific advancement of the DNA typing field, little progress has been made in procedures used to screen such biological evidence as body fluids. Because it is important for forensic scientists to use the most effective biology screening processes to achieve timely answers prior to a determination that DNA processing is required. Data were collected from 47 forensic laboratories located around the world. All laboratories used some form of presumptive screening test for blood, but less than half tested to confirm the presence of blood; all of the laboratories did presumptive screening for semen, and employed some sort of technique to confirm its presence in samples. Testing for the presence of vaginal fluids, saliva, urine, feces, and hair occurred with less frequency. Generally, the surveyed laboratories indicate that they relied on DNA techniques rather than biological screening tests, leaving the specificity and sensitivity up to the DNA typing process. Tables, figures, and references