Mobile Fingerprinting vs. In-Office Fingerprinting: Which is Better?

Fingerprinting is an essential step for background checks, licensing, employment, and various legal requirements in California. Whether you’re applying for a professional license, starting a new job, or completing a legal process, you’ll likely need to submit your fingerprints through the Live Scan system. Mobile fingerprinting has become an increasingly popular option for many individuals.

When it comes to getting your fingerprints taken, you have two main options: fingerprinting and in-office fingerprinting. Both have advantages, but depending on your needs, one might be a better choice.

At Anshin Notary and LiveScan, we provide both fingerprinting and in-office Live Scan services across Los Angeles County, ensuring our clients can choose the most convenient option.

Understanding Live Scan Fingerprinting

Mobile Fingerprinting Advantages

What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting?

Live Scan fingerprinting is a digital method of capturing fingerprints and sending them electronically to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and/or the FBI for a criminal background check. It’s faster and cleaner than the traditional ink-and-roll method, with results often processed in just a few days.

Why Fingerprinting Is Required

Many industries and legal processes require Live Scan fingerprinting to verify a person’s identity and background. Common reasons include:

• Professional licensing (real estate, healthcare, notary public)
• Employment background checks
• Volunteer work involving children or vulnerable adults
• Adoption or foster care applications
• Legal name changes

You can explore our full range of Live Scan services here.

What Is Fingerprinting?

The Basics

Fingerprinting is a service where a certified Live Scan technician comes to your location — whether it’s your home, office, school, or event site — to complete your fingerprinting on the spot.

How Mobile Fingerprinting Works

1. You book an appointment for a specific time and location.
2. A technician arrives with portable Live Scan equipment.
3. Your fingerprints are scanned electronically and transmitted securely to the DOJ/FBI.

This service is ideal for individuals or organizations who want the convenience of having the service brought directly to them.

Benefits of Fingerprinting

Convenience for Busy Schedules

You don’t have to travel, wait in line, or take time off work. The service comes to you at a time that fits your schedule.

Perfect for Groups and Organizations

Fingerprinting is especially efficient for employers, schools, and nonprofits that need multiple people fingerprinted at once.

Comfort and Privacy

Having your fingerprints taken at home or in a private office can be more comfortable and discreet than visiting a public location.

Time Savings

For those with packed schedules, mobile fingerprinting eliminates commute time and waiting periods.

What Is In-Office Fingerprinting?

The Basics

In-office fingerprinting involves visiting a dedicated Live Scan location where a certified technician takes your fingerprints using specialized equipment.

How In-Office Fingerprinting Works

1. You schedule an appointment (or sometimes walk in).
2. You visit the provider’s office.
3. Your fingerprints are captured and sent to the DOJ/FBI.

Benefits of In-Office Fingerprinting

Cost-Effective for Individuals

In-office services typically have a lower rolling fee compared to mobile services since the provider does not need to travel to your location.

Immediate Access to Equipment

Offices are fully equipped with stationary Live Scan systems, ensuring optimal quality and accuracy.

Good for One-Person Appointments

If you’re the only person needing fingerprinting and the office is nearby, in-office appointments can be quick and affordable.

Comparing Mobile vs. In-Office Fingerprinting

Convenience and Accessibility

• Mobile Fingerprinting: Wins for convenience, especially for those with busy schedules, mobility issues, or multiple people needing the service.
• In-Office Fingerprinting: Convenient if the location is close to you and you prefer to travel to a fixed site.

Cost

• Mobile Fingerprinting: May cost slightly more due to travel fees, but worth it for the saved time and travel.
• In-Office Fingerprinting: Usually cheaper per person, especially for single appointments.

Time Commitment

• Mobile Fingerprinting: Saves commuting and waiting time.
• In-Office Fingerprinting: Can involve travel and waiting, depending on how busy the location is.

Best for Groups

• Mobile Fingerprinting: Ideal for organizations that need 5+ people fingerprinted at once.
• In-Office Fingerprinting: Less practical for groups, as each person must come individually.

Privacy and Comfort

• Mobile Fingerprinting: More private since it happens at your chosen location.
• In-Office Fingerprinting: May feel less private, especially if others are in the waiting area.

When to Choose Mobile Fingerprinting

Busy Professionals

If you’re a lawyer, healthcare worker, or executive who can’t spare the time to drive to a fingerprinting office, our service is the way to go.

Group or Team Fingerprinting

For schools, nonprofits, or corporate hiring events, fingerprinting keeps the process organized and efficient.

Limited Mobility

Individuals with disabilities or transportation challenges benefit from having the service come to them.

When to Choose In-Office Fingerprinting

Single Appointments

If you’re the only one needing fingerprinting and can easily get to a location, in-office appointments are straightforward.

Cost-Sensitive Situations

In-office appointments may be slightly cheaper, making them a good choice if cost is the primary concern.

Flexible Schedules

If you have the flexibility to travel and wait, in-office works well.

Why Choose Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan for Both Options

Certified Technicians

We’re licensed and trained to handle all Live Scan needs with precision and professionalism.

Flexible Scheduling

We offer early morning, late evening, and weekend appointments — both mobile and in-office — to fit your schedule.

Coverage Across Los Angeles County

Our mobile team can come to any location in the area, and our office is centrally located for easy access.

Proven Accuracy and Fast Submissions

We use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure your fingerprints are captured correctly and sent immediately to the DOJ/FBI.

You can book your appointment here.

FAQs: Mobile vs. In-Office Fingerprinting

Which option is faster?

Mobile fingerprinting saves time by eliminating travel, but both options take about the same amount of time for the actual fingerprinting process.

Is mobile fingerprinting more expensive?

Yes, slightly — mobile services often include a travel fee. However, the time saved and convenience often outweigh the cost difference.

Can mobile fingerprinting be done for just one person?

Yes, although it’s more cost-effective for groups. Many individuals still choose mobile service for the convenience.

Do I need to bring anything for mobile or in-office fingerprinting?

For both, you need a valid photo ID, your completed Live Scan Request Form, and payment.

Are the results the same for both methods?

Absolutely. Whether done mobile or in-office, fingerprints are captured electronically and sent to the DOJ/FBI for the same type of background check.

Final Thoughts

The choice between fingerprinting and in-office depends on your priorities:

• If you value convenience, privacy, and time savings, go with mobile fingerprinting.
• If you want a cost-effective, straightforward option for a single appointment, choose in-office fingerprinting.

At Anshin Notary and LiveScan, we provide both options so you can choose the one that works best for you. Our certified technicians ensure accuracy, professionalism, and fast turnaround times — no matter where you are in Los Angeles County.

Schedule your fingerprinting appointment today and experience the easiest, most reliable Live Scan service in LA.