Key Facts
- FD-258 fingerprint cards are essential for federal employment, immigration, and international purposes, requiring traditional ink prints.
- Live Scan is faster, but FD-258 cards are necessary for specific applications and out-of-state submissions.
- Common mistakes include smudged prints and missing information, which can delay processing.
- Applicants can obtain FD-258 cards through authorized providers, the FBI, or by downloading and printing the form.
- Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan offers professional services for FD-258 fingerprinting, ensuring compliance and accuracy for submissions.
In today’s digital age, Live Scan fingerprinting has become the standard method of transmitting fingerprints in California and many other states. However, there are still situations where applicants must use traditional ink fingerprint cards. The most commonly used form for this purpose is the FBI FD-258 fingerprint card.
If you are applying for federal employment, immigration, or international purposes, you may be asked to submit your fingerprints on this card. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we regularly assist clients with FD-258 fingerprinting, ensuring accuracy and compliance. This guide explains what FD-258 fingerprint cards are, when they are needed, and how to obtain them.
What is an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?
Definition
The FD-258 fingerprint card is the official form used by the FBI to collect fingerprints. It is a standardized card that includes:
- Applicant’s personal information (name, date of birth, sex, race, height, weight, eye/hair color)
- Employer or agency information
- Fingerprint boxes for rolled and flat impressions
Format
FD-258 cards are printed on thick, high-quality cardstock with specific dimensions and alignment standards. This ensures fingerprints are scannable and readable by FBI systems.
When Do You Need an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?
Federal Employment
Many federal jobs and contractors require applicants to submit fingerprints on an FD-258 card as part of their background checks.
Immigration and Visa Applications
For certain immigration and visa processes, especially when applying abroad or requesting FBI Identity History Summaries, FD-258 cards may be required.
International Adoptions
Adoption agencies often require FD-258 fingerprint cards for both U.S. and international adoption screenings.
Out-of-State Applicants
If you live outside California or in a state without Live Scan access, you may need to use FD-258 fingerprint cards to submit your fingerprints by mail.
Apostille and International Use
When background checks must be authenticated for use overseas, FD-258 cards are often required since they provide physical documentation.
FD-258 vs. Live Scan: Key Differences
Technology
- Live Scan: Digital fingerprint capture and electronic transmission.
- FD-258: Ink-based fingerprint capture on paper cards.
Speed
- Live Scan: Instant electronic submission with faster results.
- FD-258: Requires mailing to the FBI or agency, resulting in longer processing times (6–8 weeks).
Use Cases
- Live Scan: Preferred for California DOJ and FBI checks within the U.S.
- FD-258: Required for federal, international, or out-of-state requests.
How to Complete an FD-258 Fingerprint Card
Step 1: Find an Authorized Provider
Not all providers offer FD-258 services. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we provide professional ink fingerprinting on official FD-258 cards.
Step 2: Provide Required Information
Applicants must supply personal data such as:
- Full legal name
- Date and place of birth
- Citizenship
- Physical descriptors
- Agency information (ORI code if applicable)
Step 3: Fingerprinting
Trained technicians roll each finger from nail to nail to ensure complete prints. Flat impressions of all fingers are also required.
Step 4: Submission
Completed FD-258 cards are mailed by the applicant to the FBI, requesting agency, or apostille authority.
Common Mistakes with FD-258 Cards
Smudged Prints
Poor-quality prints are one of the most common reasons for rejection.
Missing Information
Failing to fill in personal data or agency fields properly can delay processing.
Incorrect Card Stock
Using photocopies or unofficial fingerprint cards may result in rejection. Always use original FD-258 cards on FBI-approved stock.
How to Get FD-258 Fingerprint Cards
Applicants can obtain FD-258 cards by:
- Requesting them from the FBI directly
- Downloading the form online and printing on correct cardstock
- Visiting an authorized provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, where official cards are available and completed professionally
Costs of FD-258 Fingerprint Cards
Costs generally include:
- Service Fee (Rolling Fee): $20–$50 for fingerprinting services
- FBI Submission Fee: $17–$25 (if sent for Identity History Summary)
- Apostille or Certification Fees: If documents are for international use, additional fees apply for authentication
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we provide upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
Why FD-258 Cards Are Still Important
Even though Live Scan is faster and more efficient, FD-258 fingerprint cards remain essential because:
- Not all agencies accept electronic submissions
- International authorities often require physical fingerprint documents
- Applicants outside the U.S. rely on mailed fingerprint cards for FBI checks
Why Choose Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan?
Completing FD-258 fingerprint cards requires precision and expertise. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we provide:
- Official FD-258 cards on FBI-approved stock
- Professional ink fingerprinting for clarity and compliance
- Mobile services for clients who need us to come to their location
- Notary and apostille services for documents requiring international authentication
- Guidance and support to ensure your fingerprints are accepted the first time
Visit Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan to book your FD-258 fingerprinting appointment today.
FAQs: FD-258 Fingerprint Cards
What is an FD-258 fingerprint card?
It is the official FBI form used to collect ink fingerprints for background checks and federal applications.
When do I need an FD-258 card instead of Live Scan?
You need FD-258 cards for federal, international, or out-of-state requests where electronic Live Scan submissions are not accepted.
How long does it take to process FD-258 cards?
Mail-in submissions can take 6–8 weeks, while Live Scan submissions are typically faster.
Can I print an FD-258 card at home?
Yes, but it must be printed on proper cardstock. To avoid errors, it’s best to use official cards from a provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan.
Where can I get FD-258 fingerprint cards in California?
You can schedule ink fingerprinting with Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, which provides official FD-258 cards.
Conclusion
The FD-258 fingerprint card remains a critical tool for federal and international applications, even in an era dominated by digital Live Scan technology. Whether you’re applying for immigration, international adoption, or federal employment, knowing when and how to use FD-258 cards is essential.
By choosing Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, applicants gain access to professional fingerprinting services, official FBI-approved cards, and guidance on submission for background checks, apostilles, and certifications.
Visit https://anshinotary.com/ today to get started with your FD-258 fingerprinting needs.
