Key Facts
- Live Scan fingerprinting is essential for obtaining professional licenses in California, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
- This digital method enhances identity verification, reducing the risk of fraud in licensing processes.
- Live Scan expedites the licensing process, with results typically transmitted to agencies within 72 hours.
- Professionals in sensitive roles, such as healthcare and education, must complete Live Scan to ensure public safety.
- Using a trusted provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan minimizes errors and delays in the fingerprinting process.
When pursuing a professional license in California—whether for healthcare, real estate, education, or other regulated industries—you’ll likely come across the requirement of Live Scan fingerprinting. This digital fingerprinting system has replaced traditional ink methods and is now the standard for state and federal background checks.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we regularly assist individuals and businesses with Live Scan services for licensing purposes. But why exactly is Live Scan fingerprinting required, and what benefits does it provide for both professionals and licensing authorities?
In this article, we’ll explore the top reasons you need a Live Scan fingerprint for licensing, explain the process, and provide guidance on how to complete it smoothly.
Live Scan for Licensing: Quick Key Facts Chart (California)
This chart summarizes the Live Scan fingerprinting requirements and process for California professional licensing,
including what it is, why boards require it, typical timing, and what applicants need to bring.
| Category | What to Know | Why it Matters for Licensing |
|---|---|---|
| What Live Scan is | A digital fingerprint capture method that transmits prints electronically (instead of ink cards). | Faster, more reliable identity verification for state and federal background checks. |
| Where results go | Fingerprints are transmitted to the California DOJ and the FBI (as applicable), and results are sent to the requesting licensing agency. | Boards receive background-check results directly to make licensing decisions. |
| Why boards require it | Public safety, compliance with California licensing rules, and screening for sensitive roles. | Helps ensure professionals in regulated fields meet safety and ethics expectations. |
| Typical transmission timeline | Results are typically transmitted to agencies within about 72 hours (timing can vary if manual review is required). | Electronic submission reduces delays compared with mailed ink fingerprint cards. |
| What applicants must bring | A Request for Live Scan form from the licensing board + valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID). | Missing/incorrect paperwork or invalid ID can stop processing and delay licensing. |
| Typical appointment time | The fingerprint capture session usually takes about 10–15 minutes. | Easy scheduling makes it practical to complete early and avoid application holds. |
| Common professions requiring Live Scan | Healthcare, education/schools, real estate, notaries public, contractors and security personnel. | These roles often involve public trust or work with vulnerable populations, so boards require higher scrutiny. |
| How to avoid delays | Print out, fully complete and bring your Live Scan Service Request form, Double-check request form details (e.g., ORI code, Applicant Type, OCA number), bring proper ID, schedule early, and use an experienced provider. | Reduces rejections, routing errors, and last-minute setbacks that can pause licensing. |
What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting?
Digital Technology for Background Checks
Live Scan is a digital method of capturing fingerprints electronically. Instead of relying on ink and paper, Live Scan transmits fingerprint images directly to agencies like the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI.
Secure and Reliable Processing
The system ensures fingerprints are transmitted quickly, securely, and with minimal risk of smudging or rejection—issues common with traditional fingerprint cards.
Why Licensing Boards Require Live Scan
Ensuring Public Safety
Licensing agencies want to ensure that individuals granted professional authority—whether as teachers, nurses, contractors, or notaries—can be trusted to uphold safety and ethics. A Live Scan fingerprint allows agencies to verify applicants have no disqualifying criminal history.
Compliance with California Law
Many state licensing boards, such as the Department of Real Estate (DRE), Board of Registered Nursing, and the Department of Social Services, are legally required to conduct Live Scan background checks before issuing licenses.
Protecting Vulnerable Populations
Professions that work with children, elderly individuals, or patients—like teachers, healthcare providers, and caregivers—require higher scrutiny. Live Scan ensures only qualified individuals with a clear history are licensed.
Top Reasons You Need a Live Scan Fingerprint for Licensing
1. To Meet Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Most professional boards in California require Live Scan results before granting licenses. Without it, your application will remain incomplete or be denied.
2. To Verify Identity Accurately
Live Scan fingerprints tie your identity directly to your application. This prevents fraud or misrepresentation in licensing processes.
3. To Speed Up the Licensing Process
Because fingerprints are transmitted electronically, results often reach the DOJ and FBI within 72 hours. This reduces delays compared to mailed ink cards.
4. To Qualify for Sensitive Roles
Certain positions—such as notaries, foster care workers, and healthcare professionals—cannot be legally practiced without Live Scan clearance.
5. To Ensure Transparency and Trust
Employers and licensing authorities want assurance that professionals meet ethical standards. A completed Live Scan builds confidence in your background.
6. To Stay Competitive in the Job Market
Employers often prefer candidates who already have Live Scan clearance. Having your fingerprints processed in advance can give you an edge.
7. To Avoid Licensing Delays and Rejections
If you fail to submit Live Scan fingerprints on time, your licensing application could be put on hold. Completing it early prevents unnecessary setbacks.
Common Professions That Require Live Scan
Healthcare Professionals
Doctors, nurses, and caregivers must undergo fingerprinting to ensure patient safety.
Teachers and Educators
Educators, school staff, and administrators require Live Scan clearance before working with children.
Real Estate Agents and Brokers
The California Department of Real Estate mandates Live Scan for licensing applicants.
Notaries Public
California notary applicants must pass a background check through Live Scan fingerprinting before being commissioned.
Contractors and Security Personnel
Professionals in construction, security services, and similar fields require Live Scan to demonstrate trustworthiness and compliance.
The Live Scan Process: Step by Step
Step 1: Obtain the Request for Live Scan Form
Your licensing board will provide you with a form containing details of where your results should be sent.
Step 2: Schedule a Live Scan Appointment
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we make the process easy by offering both in-office and mobile Live Scan services—we can come to your home, office, or business location.
Step 3: Provide Valid Identification
Bring a government-issued ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID.
Step 4: Fingerprinting Session
Your fingerprints will be scanned digitally using specialized Live Scan equipment. The process usually takes only 10–15 minutes.
Step 5: Transmission to DOJ and FBI
Your fingerprints are transmitted electronically, and the DOJ/FBI checks for any criminal history.
Step 6: Licensing Board Notification
Results are sent directly to your licensing agency. You do not need to handle them yourself.
Benefits of Using Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan
Convenient Mobile Services
We understand that professionals have busy schedules. Our mobile Live Scan team comes directly to you, saving time and hassle.
Fast and Reliable Processing
Our state-approved Live Scan system ensures fingerprints are transmitted securely and quickly, helping you avoid delays.
Licensed and Experienced Staff
Our technicians are trained and certified to provide accurate fingerprinting with minimal rejections.
One-Stop Notary and Live Scan Solutions
In addition to Live Scan, we also provide mobile notary services, making us a trusted resource for licensing paperwork and identity verification.
Tips to Avoid Delays in Live Scan Fingerprinting
Double-Check Your Request Form
Ensure the ORI code, agency details, and license type are correct. Mistakes can cause rejections.
Bring Proper Identification
Without a valid ID, Live Scan cannot be processed.
Schedule Early
Don’t wait until the last minute—processing times may vary depending on DOJ workload.
Use a Trusted Provider
Choosing an experienced provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan helps reduce errors and rejections.
Conclusion
If you’re applying for a professional license in California, Live Scan fingerprinting is not optional—it’s a mandatory step. It ensures public safety, verifies your identity, and helps licensing boards make informed decisions.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we make the process simple, secure, and stress-free. Whether you need Live Scan for notary licensing, real estate, healthcare, or education, our team is ready to help.
👉 Schedule your Live Scan appointment today and get one step closer to your professional license.
FAQs: Live Scan Fingerprinting for Licensing in Los Angeles
Where can I get Live Scan fingerprinting for a professional license in Los Angeles?
You can complete Live Scan at a California DOJ-authorized Live Scan provider. If you want an in-office option in Los Angeles (or mobile service to your home or office), start here: Live Scan Fingerprinting.
What do I need to bring to my Live Scan appointment for licensing?
Bring (1) a completed “Request for Live Scan Service” form (BCIA 8016 or your agency’s version), and (2) a valid government photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.). If you’re unsure what the form is or what fields matter, see: Live Scan Service Form (You Need This). For the official DOJ form reference, see: BCIA 8016 (CA DOJ PDF).
How long do Live Scan results take for California licensing boards?
Many submissions reach DOJ/FBI systems quickly, but timelines vary by agency and whether any manual review is triggered. A practical way to think about it: transmission is fast, but your licensing board’s review can add time. If you need to monitor your submission, you can check your status using your ATI number (below).
How do I check the status of my Live Scan submission (ATI number)?
You can check status using the California DOJ Applicant Background Check Status portal (you’ll need the ATI number from your Live Scan form and your date of birth): CA DOJ Applicant Status Portal. For step-by-step instructions (and what the statuses mean), see: How to Check the Status of Your Live Scan.
How much does Live Scan cost for licensing in Los Angeles?
Live Scan cost is usually a combination of (1) the provider’s rolling/service fee and (2) government fees that depend on your ORI code and applicant type shown on your request form. For a clear breakdown (including why some people pay only the rolling fee), see: Live Scan Prices Near Me.
Why do licensing boards require Live Scan instead of ink fingerprints?
Live Scan lets licensing agencies run required background checks through the California DOJ (and sometimes the FBI) using an electronic submission tied to your licensing request form. It reduces common ink-card issues (smudging, unreadable prints, mailing delays) and keeps results routed directly to the requesting agency.
Can I use one Live Scan submission for multiple licenses?
Usually no. Each Live Scan submission is tied to the specific agency/board and routing information on the request form (including the ORI code). If you’re applying to multiple boards, you typically need separate Live Scan submissions (separate forms) so each board receives results correctly.
I’m not a California resident — can I still do Live Scan for a California license?
Yes, but you generally must complete Live Scan in California for California boards that require it. For example, the California Board of Registered Nursing states Live Scan must be completed at a vendor located within California: CA BRN Applicant Fingerprint Information. If you’ll be visiting Los Angeles, you can schedule during your trip and complete it then.
Do real estate license applicants need a specific Live Scan form?
Often yes. The California Department of Real Estate uses its own Live Scan request form (RE 237) for many applicants. You can reference the DRE fingerprint requirements here: DRE Fingerprint Requirements and the DRE RE 237 PDF here: RE 237 (PDF).
What happens if my Live Scan shows a criminal record?
The licensing agency reviews the information and decides based on its rules and the nature of the record; not every record results in denial. If you want a plain-language explanation of what Live Scan results mean and why “results” aren’t sent to you in most licensing cases, see: Understanding Live Scan Results.
What if my fingerprints are rejected or “unclassifiable”?
Rejections happen (dry skin, worn ridges, movement during capture). If your prints are rejected, the requesting agency typically instructs you to re-do Live Scan (or occasionally to submit fingerprint cards, depending on the agency). The best prevention is bringing the correct form, using valid ID, and using an experienced Live Scan provider.
Do you offer mobile Live Scan for licensing in Los Angeles?
Yes — mobile Live Scan can be useful for busy professionals, offices, and group appointments. If you’re also comparing Live Scan vs. FD-258 fingerprint cards (for out-of-state needs), this explainer helps you choose the right method: Fingerprinting Services in Los Angeles (Live Scan vs FD-258).
