Live scan fingerprinting is a paperless, digital process that captures your fingerprints electronically for background checks, employment screening, or licensing purposes. You’ll need to schedule an appointment with a certified provider and bring a government-issued photo ID, completed request form, and payment (typically $65-$150 total). The actual fingerprinting takes 10-15 minutes, with results usually available in 48-72 hours. Understanding the process and proper preparation will help guarantee your prints get accepted the first time.
Key Takeaways
- Live Scan fingerprinting is a paperless process that digitally captures and transmits fingerprints for background checks and identification purposes.
- Bring valid government-issued photo ID, your ORI number, and additional required paperwork to your appointment.
- The fingerprinting session takes 10-15 minutes, with appointments scheduled in 30 minute blocks so you will feel rushed.
- Prepare hands by staying hydrated and avoiding lotions before scanning to ensure clear, high-quality fingerprint captures.
What Exactly Is Live Scan Fingerprinting?
Live Scan fingerprinting represents a modern digital evolution in biometric identification. When you undergo a Live Scan, you’ll experience a paperless process that captures your fingerprints electronically instead of using traditional ink-and-paper methods.
The system uses specialized digital equipment to scan and record your unique fingerprint patterns.
Your fingerprints are instantly digitized and transmitted to state repositories and the FBI for processing. The technology’s built-in quality control software guarantees your prints are clear and accurate, reducing the chance of rejection.
You’ll find Live Scan widely used for employment screening, professional licensing, and law enforcement purposes. This digital approach offers you faster results – typically within 24 to 72 hours – and greater accuracy compared to traditional fingerprinting methods, making it the preferred choice for background checks nationwide. The technology allows technicians to retake prints multiple times to ensure optimal image quality.
The Essential Steps in the Live Scan Process
The Live Scan fingerprinting process follows four essential steps to guarantee accurate digital capture and processing of your biometric data.
First, you’ll need to obtain the ORI number from your licensing agency that is linked to the specific purpose for your fingerprinting.
Next, you’ll schedule an appointment at an authorized Live Scan provider, though some locations accept walk-ins. You can complete online enrollment beforehand if required by your state.
During your visit, you’ll present a valid photo ID, and a certified technician will guide you through the digital fingerprint scanning process, capturing both flat and rolled prints of all ten fingers. The entire scanning typically takes 5-10 minutes.
Finally, your fingerprints are submitted electronically to the appropriate agencies for background checking. Results are sent directly to your requesting agency, with processing times varying from minutes to weeks.
Documents and Items You Need to Bring
Preparing for your Live Scan appointment requires specific documentation to verify your identity and complete the fingerprinting process successfully. You’ll need to bring at least one primary form of government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, U.S. passport, or federal PIV card.
Additional documents may be required depending on your specific situation. These can include your birth certificate, Social Security card, or marriage certificate.
You should also bring proof of address through a utility bill, voter registration card, or paycheck stub.
Don’t forget to bring your completed Live Scan request form with the correct ORI number and any agency-specific documents required for your application.
Finding a Certified Live Scan Provider Near You
When searching for a certified Live Scan provider, you’ll find several convenient options available nationwide. The Department of Justice website offers a detailed listing of authorized locations, while a simple online search for “fingerprinting near me” can connect you with providers like Fingerprints and More. Modern providers use state-of-the-art equipment to maximize the quality and accuracy of fingerprint scans.
Provider Type | Where to Find Them |
---|---|
Law Enforcement | Local police and sheriff departments |
Education | Large school districts |
Travel Services | Passport offices |
Private Networks | Fingerprints and More (3 middle TN locations) |
To guarantee reliability, verify that your chosen provider is certified by relevant state agencies like the Florida FDLE. Consider factors such as location convenience and provider experience in handling fingerprints for various agencies.
Cost Expectations and Payment Methods
Understanding Live Scan fingerprinting costs involves several components that affect your total payment. You’ll typically encounter a rolling fee of $30-$35, DOJ fees ranging from $25-$42, an FBI fee of $17, and possible additional charges for child fingerprinting or record reviews.
Your final cost will depend on the application type, agency ORI number, and required service levels. If your employer provides a billing number on the Live Scan form, they’ll cover the government fees directly. Non-profit organizations may qualify for reduced or waived DOJ fees.
You can pay using credit cards or debit cards directly on our scheduler. For mobile services, expect different pricing based on the number of applicants.
Remember that fees can change without notice, so it’s best to contact your Live Scan provider for the most current pricing.
How Long Does Live Scan Fingerprinting Take?
The time required for Live Scan fingerprinting involves two distinct phases: the actual fingerprinting session and the background check processing.
Your fingerprinting session will take 10-15 minutes, during which your prints are captured electronically with real-time quality checks to guarantee accuracy. Once captured, they’re immediately transmitted to the appropriate agencies.
For results, you’ll typically wait 1-7 days, though specific timeframes vary. DOJ background checks usually take 48-72 hours, while FBI checks require 3-5 days. Working with experienced technicians can help ensure your prints are captured correctly the first time.
Several factors can affect processing times, including technical issues, high submission volumes, and agency workloads. Holiday periods may also cause delays.
You can track your submission using your ATI number through the requesting agency. For fastest results, you’ll receive notifications via email once processing is complete.
Understanding Your Live Scan Results
Live Scan results come in digital format with clear, detailed information about your fingerprint analysis. When you submit your prints, they’re electronically transmitted to relevant state or federal agencies, with results typically arriving within 24 to 72 hours. However, you might experience delays due to poor print quality or high submission volumes.
Your results will include criminal history responses if your prints were searched against state or FBI databases. You’ll receive these directly through platforms like the Online Applicant Tracking System. The process is often required for obtaining professional licenses and permits.
Since Live Scan uses digital technology, it’s more reliable than traditional ink methods, reducing errors and smudges. If your initial prints aren’t clear enough, fingerprint technicians can take multiple attempts to guarantee quality images.
Remember that Live Scan is just one component of your overall background check process.
Common Reasons Why Live Scan Gets Rejected
Despite following proper procedures, your Live Scan fingerprints might get rejected for several common reasons. Technical issues and physical finger conditions often cause rejections, while operational mistakes can complicate the process further.
Rejection Category | Common Issues |
---|---|
Technical Problems | Poor scan quality, data entry errors, transmission failures |
Finger Conditions | Dry skin, worn prints, cuts, excessive moisture |
Provider Issues | Uncertified operators, outdated equipment, improper techniques |
Documentation | Missing ID, incomplete forms, incorrect demographic info |
To avoid rejection, make sure you’re working with a certified provider and properly prepare your hands before scanning. If you work in an occupation that affects your fingerprints or have age-related skin changes, inform your technician beforehand. They can take extra precautions to capture the best possible prints. Maintaining proper skin hydration levels through adequate water intake before your appointment can significantly improve the quality of your fingerprint scans.
Tips for a Successful Live Scan Experience
A successful Live Scan experience starts with proper preparation and attention to detail. Before your appointment, have your valid government-issued photo ID ready.
Keep your hands in prime condition by avoiding lotion right before the scan, but if you have particularly dry skin, apply moisturizer well in advance. Maintain warm, clean hands for better print quality.
If you have any injuries or skin conditions, let your technician know immediately.
Choose the appropriate Fingerprints and More location that’s convenient for you, and schedule an appointment to minimize wait times.
When you arrive, double-check all your personal information and verify your forms are complete with black ink and required signatures.
Conclusion
Live scan fingerprinting doesn’t have to be complicated. Now that you’re familiar with the process, required documents, costs, and what to expect, you’ll be well-prepared for your appointment. Remember to keep your hands clean, follow the technician’s instructions, and bring proper identification. If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to contact Fingerprints and More beforehand to guarantee a smooth, successful fingerprinting experience.