Employment background checks are a standard requirement in California across many industries—from healthcare and education to finance and government. Employers must verify that candidates meet legal, ethical, and professional standards before hiring. One of the most effective and widely accepted methods is Live Scan fingerprinting.
Unlike traditional ink fingerprinting, Live Scan provides a digital, secure, and efficient way to capture and transmit fingerprints directly to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we specialize in helping individuals and businesses complete this crucial step quickly and reliably.
What is Live Scan?
Live Scan is an electronic fingerprinting system that captures and transmits fingerprints digitally to authorized agencies. Instead of using messy ink pads and paper cards, your fingerprints are scanned using a digital device, ensuring accuracy and speed.
In California, Live Scan is the official method for conducting state and federal criminal background checks. Employers, licensing agencies, and regulatory bodies use Live Scan results to determine eligibility for employment, licensing, or certification.
Why California Employers Rely on Live Scan
Ensures Legal Compliance
Many California industries—such as healthcare, childcare, real estate, and financial services—are legally required to conduct Live Scan fingerprint background checks. This ensures compliance with state laws and protects employers from liability.
Protects Workplace Integrity
By screening candidates through Live Scan, employers reduce the risk of hiring individuals with disqualifying criminal histories. This step promotes a safe, trustworthy, and compliant workplace.
Faster Hiring Process
Traditional background checks can take weeks, but Live Scan’s digital submission means results often return within a few days. This allows employers to speed up the hiring process and get candidates started sooner.
How the Live Scan Process Works
Step 1: Obtain a Request for Live Scan Form
The employer or licensing agency provides you with a Request for Live Scan Service (Form BCIA 8016). This form includes the agency’s ORI number, which directs your fingerprints to the correct destination.
Step 2: Visit a Certified Live Scan Provider
You’ll bring the completed form, a valid photo ID, and payment to an authorized provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan.
Step 3: Fingerprinting and Submission
Your fingerprints are scanned electronically and transmitted directly to the DOJ and FBI for processing.
Step 4: Results Delivered to Employer/Agency
The DOJ and FBI send results securely back to the requesting agency, not to the applicant. Employers then make final decisions based on eligibility.
Benefits of Live Scan for Employment Background Checks
Accuracy and Security
Because Live Scan fingerprints are captured digitally, they are less prone to errors compared to ink cards. This reduces delays caused by rejected prints.
Speed of Results
In most cases, results are available within 72 hours. For industries with urgent hiring needs, this speed is critical.
Wide Acceptance
Live Scan is recognized by California state agencies, federal organizations, and employers across industries, making it the gold standard for employment checks.
Convenience of Mobile Services
With Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, you don’t have to travel far. Our mobile service brings Live Scan fingerprinting to your business, office, or even home, saving time and effort.
Common Industries Requiring Live Scan Background Checks
Healthcare and Caregiving
Doctors, nurses, caregivers, and healthcare administrators must undergo background checks to ensure patient safety.
Education
Teachers, childcare workers, and school volunteers in California are required to complete Live Scan before being approved to work with children.
Real Estate and Financial Services
Real estate license applicants and financial professionals must pass Live Scan to maintain industry trust and compliance.
Legal and Government Work
Attorneys, notaries, contractors, and government employees often need Live Scan clearance before employment.
Why Choose Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we make the process seamless:
- Certified and Trusted: Authorized Live Scan provider serving Los Angeles and beyond.
- Mobile Convenience: We travel to your business or residence for maximum convenience.
- All-in-One Service: From Live Scan to notary services to apostille assistance, we cover all your documentation needs.
- Fast and Reliable: Our team ensures fingerprints are captured correctly the first time, minimizing delays.
Related Services You May Need
While Live Scan fingerprinting is often required for employment, you may also need additional documentation services. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we also provide:
- Apostille Services for Immigration Documents
- Notary Services for Powers of Attorney
- Mobile Notary Services for Business Clients
- Live Scan Fingerprinting for Licensing
These complementary services help streamline your professional and personal legal requirements.
FAQs about Live Scan for California Employment
How long does it take to get Live Scan results?
Most results are available within 72 hours, but in rare cases, it may take up to 30 days depending on DOJ or FBI processing.
Can I get a copy of my Live Scan results?
No. Results are sent directly to the requesting agency, not the applicant. If you need confirmation, you must contact the agency.
What if my fingerprints are rejected?
Occasionally, poor print quality may lead to rejections. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we ensure high-quality scans and provide re-submission support if necessary.
Do all jobs in California require Live Scan?
No. Only certain industries and regulated positions require Live Scan. Employers will inform you if it’s needed.
Can Live Scan be done outside California?
Live Scan is California-specific. However, if you are out-of-state and applying for a California license or job, you may need to submit fingerprint cards that the DOJ can process.
Conclusion
Live Scan fingerprinting has become an essential part of employment background checks in California, offering a fast, secure, and legally compliant way to verify candidate eligibility. For both employers and job seekers, the process ensures smoother hiring and greater workplace trust.
When you need Live Scan fingerprinting in Los Angeles or surrounding areas, trust Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan. Our certified team makes the process simple, efficient, and convenient—helping you move forward with your career or hiring process without unnecessary delays.
