Key Facts
- The cost of a Live Scan in California varies based on background check type and provider fees.
- Live Scan fees consist of government processing fees and provider service fees.
- Typical costs range from $50 to $90, depending on the required checks and provider fees.
- Choosing a trusted provider helps avoid hidden charges and ensures quality fingerprint capture.
- Live Scan fees are generally non-refundable, even if applications are canceled or denied.
When preparing for employment, licensing, or immigration in California, one common question applicants have is: “How much does a Live Scan cost?”
The cost of Live Scan in California varies depending on the type of background check requested and the provider handling the fingerprinting. Applicants are often surprised to learn that the fee is not a single flat rate, but instead a combination of government processing fees and provider service fees.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we believe in transparency. This article breaks down how Live Scan fees work in California, what factors affect the total cost, and how to avoid hidden charges.
Understanding Live Scan Fees
Two Main Components of Cost
The cost of a Live Scan is generally made up of:
- Government Fees
- California DOJ Fee: Charged for state-level criminal history checks.
- FBI Fee: Charged if a federal background check is required.
- Other Agency Fees: Certain licensing boards or regulatory agencies may add their own processing fees.
- Rolling Fee (Service Provider Fee)
- This is the fee charged by the Live Scan provider for capturing and submitting your fingerprints. Each provider sets their own rolling fee, which typically ranges from $20 to $50.
Typical Breakdown of Live Scan Costs in California
California DOJ Fee
The DOJ fee for state-level checks usually ranges between $32–$40, depending on the type of application and agency requesting the check.
FBI Fee
The FBI fee for federal background checks is typically $17–$25.
Rolling Fee
Providers such as Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan charge a service fee for fingerprinting. This can vary, but most fall between $20–$50, depending on location and service type (mobile vs. in-office).
Total Cost Example
For a standard DOJ + FBI check:
- DOJ fee: $32
- FBI fee: $17
- Rolling fee: $30
- Total = $79
Factors That Affect Live Scan Pricing
1. Type of Background Check
Some applicants need only a DOJ check, while others require both DOJ and FBI checks. The more checks required, the higher the total cost.
2. Agency Requirements
Licensing boards, adoption agencies, and government departments may add their own fees. Always confirm with the requesting agency before scheduling Live Scan.
3. Provider Service Fees
Each Live Scan provider sets their own rolling fee. Some providers advertise low fees but add hidden surcharges. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we provide clear pricing with no hidden costs.
4. Mobile vs. In-Office Service
Mobile Live Scan services, where a technician comes to your location, may include additional convenience fees.
Why Fees Vary Across California
Applicants often notice that Live Scan prices differ between providers in California. This is because the DOJ and FBI fees are fixed, but the rolling fee is not regulated. Providers are free to set their own service charges.
This is why choosing a trusted provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan is important — you know exactly what you are paying for, with no surprises.
Paying for Live Scan
When scheduling your Live Scan, check in advance how fees must be paid. Many providers accept:
- Cash
- Credit or debit cards
- Business checks
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we make payments simple and secure, whether you book online or in person.
Are Live Scan Fees Refundable?
Generally, Live Scan fees are non-refundable. Even if the requesting agency cancels your application or you fail to qualify, the DOJ and FBI do not return processing fees.
If fingerprints are rejected due to poor quality, the provider may reprint and resubmit them at no cost. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we ensure high-quality fingerprint capture to minimize rejections.
How to Save Time and Money on Live Scan
- Confirm with your agency which level of background check is required (DOJ only, FBI only, or both).
- Choose a trusted provider to avoid repeat fingerprinting due to poor quality.
- Avoid hidden fees by asking for a full cost breakdown before booking.
- Consider mobile services if traveling to a provider is costly or time-consuming.
Why Choose Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan?
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we combine affordability with accuracy. Clients choose us because:
- Our rolling fees are clear and competitive.
- We are an authorized provider for DOJ and FBI submissions.
- We offer both in-office and mobile services for convenience.
- We provide notary services for documents often required alongside background checks.
Whether you’re applying for a California teaching credential, healthcare license, or federal clearance, we ensure you know the exact cost upfront.
Book your appointment today at Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan.
FAQs: How Much Does a Live Scan Cost in California?
How much does a basic Live Scan cost in California?
A DOJ-only Live Scan typically costs around $50–$70, depending on the provider’s rolling fee.
How much does a DOJ + FBI Live Scan cost?
On average, DOJ + FBI checks cost between $70–$90 in California.
Why do Live Scan costs vary?
Government fees are fixed, but providers set their own service (rolling) fees.
Are there hidden fees I should watch out for?
Some providers add surcharges for credit card payments or expedited processing. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we are fully transparent about costs.
Can Live Scan fees be refunded?
No. DOJ and FBI fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
Conclusion
So, how much does a Live Scan cost in California? The total fee usually ranges between $50–$90, depending on whether your application requires state, federal, or both levels of background checks, as well as the provider’s rolling fee.
By choosing a professional provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, you can ensure your fingerprints are captured correctly the first time and that you pay only what’s necessary — with no hidden surprises.
Schedule your appointment today at https://anshinotary.com/ and experience transparent, affordable Live Scan services.
