You can get official FD-258 fingerprint cards from several authorized sources, including local police stations, FBI-approved fingerprinting service centers, and federal facilities. Many locations offer both traditional ink methods and digital Live Scan services, with fees typically ranging from $20-30. You'll need a government-issued photo ID and completed application forms to obtain your fingerprints. Understanding the specific requirements and processing times will help guarantee a smooth fingerprinting experience.
Key Takeaways
- Local police stations and law enforcement agencies provide official fingerprint cards and fingerprinting services using both Live Scan and ink methods.
- FBI-authorized fingerprinting service centers like IdentoGO and PrintScan offer FD-258 cards and professional fingerprinting nationwide.
- Federal facilities including DFAS sites and VA locations provide fingerprint cards and services for government-related background checks.
- Mobile fingerprinting services bring equipment and official cards directly to your location for added convenience.
- Many state agencies and post offices stock official fingerprint cards for public use with proper identification.
Understanding the FD-258 Fingerprint Card
The FD-258 fingerprint card serves as the FBI's official document for recording and processing fingerprints across various applications. You'll need this card for background checks, employment verification, licensing, naturalization, visa applications, and adoption processes.
When you submit an FD-258 card, you must provide thorough personal identification details, including your full name, date and place of birth, sex, race, residence address, and physical characteristics.
The fingerprinting process requires black ink, and each of your fingers must be rolled from side to side to capture complete print patterns. A trained professional needs to take your prints to guarantee they meet quality standards, as incomplete or unclear prints can lead to rejection. The card helps maintain professional integrity and safety by ensuring accurate identity verification.
Once completed, your card will be processed by relevant law enforcement agencies for verification.
Local Police Stations and Law Enforcement Options
Local police stations and law enforcement agencies across California provide convenient fingerprinting services through both Live Scan technology and traditional ink-based methods. You'll find these services at departments like Turlock PD and San Joaquin Delta Community College District Police, with varying hours and fee structures.
– Turlock PD offers Live Scan appointments on Tuesdays between 10:00-11:30 am with a $25 rolling fee
Most agencies require a completed REQUEST FOR LIVE SCAN SERVICE form and valid ID. Results from Live Scan fingerprinting are typically delivered to requesting agencies within 72 hours of submission.
– DOJ and FBI processing fees typically total $49.00
Many departments offer walk-in services, while others require appointments.
Some locations provide additional services like passport photos and drug testing.
Remember that you'll need to use California-based Live Scan locations for electronic submissions to the DOJ, while out-of-state applicants must use manual fingerprint processes.
Authorized Fingerprinting Service Centers
Beyond local police stations, authorized fingerprinting service centers provide specialized options for obtaining official fingerprints across the country. These affiliate locations can capture your prints on standard FD-258 cards for FBI submission using either live scan machines or traditional ink methods.
You'll find these centers in various cities, with providers like Austin Passport Express and TLG Fingerprinting offering both electronic and ink-card services. Many locations let you schedule appointments online or by phone through services like IdentoGO. Some centers can also provide additional background services while capturing your fingerprints.
Before visiting, you'll need to verify you have the correct service code and ORI numbers for your fingerprint card.
Most centers operate during weekday business hours, though some offer weekend availability. They'll help you properly complete the demographic information and required signatures on your FD-258 card.
Digital Live Scan Locations Near You
Looking for a convenient digital fingerprinting location? You'll find numerous Live Scan centers across the nation, with providers like Certifix operating over 1,200 locations nationwide.
In California alone, there are more than 500 centers offering both walk-in and appointment-based services. Mobile fingerprinting services are also available for those needing extra flexibility and convenience.
- Certifix Live Scan provides 24/7 service in select locations like New York
- PrintScan offers coverage in all 50 states through vendor partnerships
- Most centers complete the fingerprinting process in just 10-15 minutes
- Results are typically available within 24-72 hours
- You can choose from authorized providers including police departments, sheriff's offices, and private centers
The digital Live Scan process is faster and more efficient than traditional ink methods, allowing for immediate electronic submission to government agencies.
Remember to bring your valid photo ID and required forms when visiting any location.
Steps to Complete Your Fingerprint Card
Completing your official fingerprint card requires careful attention to detail and proper documentation. You'll need to bring government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, along with any secondary identification requested. Make sure to have your application papers and proof of address ready.
When filling out the card, write your full legal name exactly as it appears on official documents, including your date of birth, current address, and Social Security Number. Don't make alterations – if you make a mistake, start with a new card.
You'll need to sign the card, and the fingerprinting technician must also sign and date it. Remember to write legibly and follow FBI guidelines strictly to avoid rejection. Double-check all fields for accuracy before submission. Using standard black ink is essential as the FBI will not accept cards filled out with other colors.
Costs and Processing Times
The financial aspects and timeframes for fingerprint processing vary based on several key factors. You'll encounter different fees depending on your submission method and location. The total cost is $30 for electronic submissions when using approved vendors.
FINRA charges $20 for first-time submissions and $30 for subsequent ones, while FBI fees will drop to $10 per submission in 2025.
- Live Scan fingerprinting offers the fastest results, typically within 24-72 hours
- Traditional ink fingerprinting takes 2-4 weeks for processing
- FBI background checks generally complete in 3-5 days
- Local fingerprinting services, like the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office, charge $25 per appointment
- Second submissions are free if your first FBI fingerprints are deemed illegible
Processing times may extend during peak periods or if there are complications with fingerprint quality. Remember that state sales tax and service fees might apply to certain transactions.
Security Measures and Data Protection
Beyond costs and processing times, fingerprint card security demands rigorous attention to protect your sensitive biometric data. When you get fingerprinted at authorized locations like police stations or fingerprinting agencies, they'll use secure digital scanners and follow strict quality control measures to guarantee your prints are clear and usable. Authorized technicians carefully perform quality control checks before submitting fingerprints to ensure maximum accuracy.
Your fingerprint data falls under specific privacy laws, with states like Washington, Illinois, and Texas enforcing enhanced biometric protection regulations. You'll find that organizations must maintain strict confidentiality and comply with both local and national standards.
Advanced security technologies, including multi-spectral imaging and contactless scanners, help safeguard your information while ensuring accuracy. These measures are vital since your fingerprint card serves as a permanent record for identity verification in background checks, employment screenings, and law enforcement purposes.
Required Documentation and Submission Methods
Proper documentation stands as the cornerstone of a successful fingerprint card submission. To get your official fingerprint card processed, you'll need specific identification documents and must follow precise submission procedures.
- You must present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or state ID card
- A secondary form of identification showing your Social Security number is required, like tax forms or school records
- For federal employees and contractors, you'll need the SF-87 fingerprint card, though FD-258 is also accepted
- You can submit electronically through SWFT or as hardcopy cards through approved channels
- Fingerprints can be taken at DFAS sites, law enforcement agencies, VA facilities, or authorized private services like PrintScan
Getting fingerprinted at DFAS sites is free, while some law enforcement agencies may charge a service fee.
These requirements guarantee proper processing and help maintain the integrity of the fingerprinting system while protecting your identity.
Conclusion
You've got several reliable options for getting your official fingerprint card. Head to your local police station, visit an authorized fingerprinting service center, or find a digital live scan location nearby. Just make sure you're bringing proper identification and payment. Once you've completed your fingerprinting, follow the submission guidelines carefully to guarantee your card is processed correctly and securely.