Key Facts
- Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting system used for background checks in California, replacing traditional ink-and-paper methods.
- Results from the California DOJ typically take 2–5 business days, while FBI results may take 3–7 days.
- Delays can occur due to poor-quality fingerprints, agency backlogs, or criminal history matches requiring manual review.
- Applicants do not receive results directly; they are sent to the requesting agency, which decides how to share them.
- To avoid delays, choose a professional provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan for accurate fingerprinting and timely submissions.
If you are applying for a job, professional license, or immigration requirement in California, you’ll likely be asked to complete a Live Scan fingerprint background check. One of the most common questions applicants have is: “How long does it take to get Live Scan results in California?”
The answer depends on several factors, including whether the fingerprints are going to the California Department of Justice (DOJ), the FBI, or both, as well as the type of agency requesting the check. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we guide clients through the process and help them understand expected timelines so they can plan accordingly.
What is Live Scan?
Definition
Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting system that allows fingerprints to be captured electronically and sent directly to the DOJ or FBI for background checks.
Purpose
Live Scan eliminates the need for ink-and-paper fingerprint cards, speeding up the process and reducing errors. It is the required method for most state licensing, employment, and background checks in California.
Average Timeframe for Live Scan Results
California DOJ Processing
For state-level checks conducted by the California DOJ, results are typically available within 2–5 business days. However, delays can occur if the applicant’s fingerprints require manual review or if the DOJ has a backlog.
FBI Processing
For federal background checks submitted through Live Scan, the FBI generally provides results within 3–7 business days when processed electronically. If additional review is needed, results may take longer.
Combined DOJ and FBI Checks
Some agencies request both state and federal background checks. In these cases, applicants should plan for up to 2–7 business days before results are received by the requesting agency.
Factors That Affect Live Scan Processing Time
1. Quality of Fingerprints
Smudged or incomplete fingerprints can delay results. The system may flag poor-quality prints for manual inspection, adding days or even weeks. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, our trained staff ensures prints are captured correctly the first time to avoid delays.
2. Agency Submissions
Processing times also depend on whether your results are routed to just the DOJ, the FBI, or both. Submissions requiring federal clearance generally take longer.
3. Backlogs
High demand, such as during teacher hiring seasons or mass licensing deadlines, can create DOJ or FBI backlogs. This can extend processing by several weeks.
4. Applicant History
If the DOJ or FBI database flags potential matches in your criminal history, results may be delayed while agencies manually verify the information.
How Applicants Receive Results
It’s important to understand that Live Scan results are not sent to the applicant directly. Instead, results are transmitted electronically to the requesting agency (such as an employer, licensing board, or government office). The agency then decides how and when to share those results with the applicant.
Applicants who want a personal copy of their background check must submit a separate request through the DOJ or FBI’s official channels.
What to Do If Results Are Delayed
Contact the Requesting Agency
If your results are taking longer than expected, the first step is to contact the agency that requested the Live Scan. They can confirm whether results have been received.
Contact DOJ Applicant Processing
The California DOJ provides an Automated Applicant Response System where applicants can check the status of their Live Scan results by providing their ATI number (the unique code from their Live Scan receipt).
Verify Fingerprint Submission
If results still haven’t appeared, it’s possible the fingerprints were rejected due to poor quality. In this case, applicants may be required to redo the Live Scan at no additional cost.
Live Scan Timelines in Real-World Scenarios
Employment Applications
For most jobs requiring state-level checks, Live Scan results are returned within a few business days, allowing employers to move forward with hiring quickly.
Licensing Boards
Boards such as nursing, real estate, and teaching often require both DOJ and FBI checks, meaning results can take 1–2 weeks.
Immigration and International Adoption
FBI background checks for immigration purposes may take longer, especially if results must be mailed or apostilled for international use.
The Role of Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we understand that timelines matter. Whether you’re waiting for employment clearance, licensing approval, or immigration processing, delays can cause stress. That’s why we provide:
- Certified Live Scan fingerprinting for accurate, first-time submission
- Mobile notary services to notarize documents if needed for immigration or licensing
- Guidance on timelines so applicants know what to expect
- Secure handling of personal data to ensure compliance with DOJ and FBI standards
Visit us at Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan to schedule your Live Scan today and avoid common processing delays.
FAQs: How Long Does It Take to Get Live Scan Results in California?
How fast are Live Scan results processed in California?
Most California Live Scan results are processed quickly: DOJ results typically arrive within 2–5 business days, while FBI results are usually available within 3–7 business days. If both checks are required, expect up to 7 business days. Delays sometimes occur during periods of high demand or if issues with fingerprints arise.
Why are my Live Scan results delayed?
Common causes of Live Scan delays include:
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Poor fingerprint quality, which may require resubmission.
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Processing backlogs at DOJ or FBI, often during peak hiring or licensing seasons.
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Criminal record matches that necessitate manual review.
Choose a provider with experienced staff to help avoid these issues and reduce wait times.
Can I track my Live Scan results?
Yes, you can check the status of your California Live Scan results using your ATI number (from your Live Scan receipt) via the California DOJ’s Automated Applicant Response System. This provides real-time updates on your fingerprint submission.
Do I receive a copy of my results?
No, results are not sent directly to you. Live Scan results go straight to the agency (employer, licensing board, government office) that requested your background check. If you need a personal copy, you must make a separate request with the DOJ or FBI.
Where can I get Live Scan done quickly in California?
To get Live Scan services done quickly and accurately in California, you can schedule with Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan. We offer certified fingerprint collection and fast electronic submissions to reduce turnaround time and minimize errors.
Conclusion
So, how long does it take to get Live Scan results in California? In most cases, results are available within a few business days for DOJ checks and about a week for FBI checks. Combined checks or applications requiring additional review may take longer.
The key to avoiding delays is choosing a professional provider who ensures fingerprints are captured correctly. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we make the process fast, reliable, and compliant, helping applicants meet their deadlines without unnecessary stress.
Visit https://anshinotary.com/ today to book your Live Scan appointment.
