Key Facts
- FD-258 Ink Fingerprint Cards are essential for processing criminal background checks for federal jobs, out-of-state licensing, and immigration applications.
- Expert ink fingerprinting ensures high-quality prints with proper techniques and inkless pads, minimizing mess and maximizing readability.
- Mobile ink fingerprinting services are available in Los Angeles, providing convenience without the need for internet or power.
- Transparent pricing at $40 per card includes guidance for mailing and additional documentation support.
- Ink fingerprinting is necessary when Live Scan is not accepted, especially for federal submissions and international applications.
Ink Fingerprinting on Fingerprint Cards
FD-258 Ink Fingerprint Cards are used for Ink Card Fingerprint processing by the FBI or nations or states outside of California to process criminal background history reports.
When it comes to background checks, two common fingerprinting methods stand out: traditional ink fingerprinting on fingerprint cards and the more modern Live Scan Fingerprinting or sometimes the electronic FBI Identity History Check. Whether you’re applying for a license, a job, or need to comply with legal requirements, it’s helpful to understand the differences and uses of these two fingerprinting methods.
What is Ink Fingerprinting on Fingerprint Cards?
Fingerprint cards, as the name suggests, involves rolling inked fingers onto a fingerprint card. The most widely used form is the FD-258 fingerprint card (see image above), commonly required by the FBI for out-of-state licensing, employment, or immigration purposes. Many countries such as Canada may ask for one as part of their immigration application. In many cases, the fingerprint card is sent to an agency that uses these prints to check against national databases like the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS).
When to obtain Ink Fingerprinting on Fingerprint Cards
You may need to use ink fingerprinting in the following situations:
- Out-of-state licensing: If you are applying for a license in another state that requires physical submission of fingerprints, ink prints on an FD-258 card may be your only option.
- Federal jobs or immigration purposes: Certain federal roles or immigration processes might still request ink fingerprints, especially when dealing with international authorities.
- Remote areas: If you are in a location without access to Live Scan technology, ink fingerprinting is a reliable fallback.
Ink Fingerprinting Process:
- Preparation: Make sure your hands are clean and free of paint, lotions, oils or other foreign substances that could interfere with the print quality. Don’t worry. We will work with you to make sure things will go smoothly.
- Education: We will teach you how the card is set up and how your fingerprints need to be rolled to get the best possible results. We will also have you practice fingerprint rolling so we are comfortable that you will obtain the best prints possible.
- Fingerprinting: You will roll your fingers on an inkless ink pad, and then we will help you roll your prints on the FD-258 card.
- Submission: We will help you mail in your fingerprint card to your agency for processing and ensure that it is protected and will not be damages in mailing.
Price of Ink Fingerprinting
The cost of our ink fingerprinting service is \$40 per card processed.
Live Scan Fingerprinting
•Good for In-State Requirements: Live Scan Fingerprinting is the preferred method for fingerprinting in California, as it electronically transmits fingerprints directly to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and, if required, the FBI. This is faster, as results can be processed within days, making it a convenient choice for clients needing quick background checks for state licensing, employment, and other local purposes.
• Increased Accuracy and Efficiency: Live Scan captures high-quality digital fingerprints, reducing the likelihood of errors or smudges that can occur with ink fingerprinting. This makes Live Scan more efficient and often more accurate, minimizing the chance of rejection.
FD258 Fingerprint Cards
• Required for Out-of-State or Federal Submissions: Ink fingerprint cards, such as the FD-258 card, are typically needed when applying to agencies outside California or for federal requirements that do not accept Live Scan Fingerprinting. Ink cards are a common choice for applications like federal employment, immigration, or out-of-state professional licensing.
• Portable and Accepted Nationwide: FD-258 cards are widely accepted by agencies across the United States and internationally. Clients can carry or mail them to the appropriate authority or agency.
Advantages of Live Scan Fingerprinting and FBI Background Check
- Fast and Convenient: Results from Live Scan fingerprinting are typically available much faster than those from ink fingerprinting. The digital prints are submitted in real-time, often reducing turnaround times from weeks to days.
- Accuracy: Live Scan reduces the risk of human error that often leads to rejected fingerprint cards. Smudges or misprints are easily avoided. And you can be reprinted numerous times until passing prints are obtained. Also, you will have an assurance that the prints will be accepted before rolling.That won’t necessarily happen with Ink prints.
- Security: Digital encryption ensures that the fingerprint data is secure from tampering or theft.
Advantages of Fingerprint Cards
- Tried and tested: Ink fingerprinting has been the gold standard in fingerprinting for years and with good reason; it works.
- Widely accepted: Some states and federal institutions still mandate ink fingerprinting, although gradually, many are switching to electronic.
- International Submissions and Portability: Ink fingerprint cards can be mailed to various jurisdictions, making it useful for out-of-state or international use.
| Feature | FD-258 Ink Fingerprint Cards | Live Scan (California) | Best Use Case in Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accepted By | FBI, federal agencies, out-of-state boards, international authorities | California DOJ, FBI (when transmitted electronically) | Federal submissions, international visas, out-of-state licensing |
| Transmission Method | Mailed physically after rolling ink fingerprints | Sent electronically in seconds | When the requesting agency does not accept digital Live Scan |
| Processing Time | Slower (mailing + manual scanning) | Fast (often 24–72 hrs) | Ideal for FBI Identity History Summary checks when required on ink cards |
| When Required | Federal background checks, immigration cases, out-of-state licenses, medical boards | California state licensing, employment, volunteers | Perfect for clients in Los Angeles applying out of state |
| Mobility Options | ✔ Fully mobile (no power/WiFi needed) | ✔ Mobile Live Scan offered, but requires equipment & power | Great for in-home or office mobile appointments in LA |
| Reprint Options | If rejected, new ink card must be rolled | Digital retakes until prints pass quality | Important when agencies only accept FD-258 |
| Cost in Los Angeles | $40 per card (plus mailing) | Varies by ORI + DOJ/FBI fees | Affordable option for federal + worldwide submissions |
| Most Common Forms | FD-258, FD-1164, SF-87 | Live Scan Transmission Form (BCIA 8016) | FD-258 for FBI checks and international applications |
| Best For | Federal jobs, immigration, medical licensing, international travel | California licensing, employment, volunteer programs | Clients preparing documents for out-of-state or global use |
FD-258 Ink Fingerprint Card FAQs in Los Angeles
1. What is an FD-258 fingerprint card and why would I need one in Los Angeles?
An FD-258 fingerprint card is the standard ink card used for FBI background checks, federal employment, out-of-state licensing, and many international applications. In Los Angeles, these cards are often required when Live Scan is not accepted, especially for agencies outside California. You can learn more about how we complete fingerprint cards—including FD-258, FD-1164, and SF-87—on our main Fingerprint Cards page.
2. How is FD-258 ink fingerprinting different from Live Scan in California?
Live Scan fingerprints are transmitted electronically to the California DOJ and FBI, while FD-258 fingerprint cards use traditional ink and are physically mailed to the requesting agency. California agencies almost always require Live Scan, but many federal, out-of-state, and international authorities require ink cards. For a full comparison, visit our Live Scan vs. Ink Fingerprinting guide.
3. When should I choose an FD-258 ink card instead of Live Scan?
Choose FD-258 ink fingerprinting when your agency specifically asks for ink fingerprints, FD-258, or “fingerprint card submissions.” Common reasons in Los Angeles include FBI Identity History Summary checks, international visas, healthcare licensing, or out-of-state board applications. If you’re unsure which method you need, you can review common use cases in our guide on ink fingerprinting for out-of-state licensing.
4. How much does FD-258 fingerprinting cost in Los Angeles?
The cost is $40 per FD-258 card completed in-office. This includes expert rolling, FBI-compliant inkless pads, and guidance for mailing your card. Mobile service is also available for an additional travel fee. Pricing remains separate from DOJ or FBI processing fees. Learn more about service variations on our fingerprint card guide.
5. Do you provide FD-258 fingerprint cards?
Yes. We supply standard FD-258 cards at both our Los Angeles and Beverly Hills offices. If your agency issued a custom card or alternate form (FD-1164, SF-87), bring it with you. Otherwise, we provide the correct cards and ensure they meet FBI formatting requirements. You can see examples and instructions on our FD-258 vs FD-1164 vs SF-87 comparison page.
6. Do you offer mobile FD-258 fingerprinting in Los Angeles?
Yes. We provide mobile fingerprinting throughout Los Angeles—including Beverly Hills, Culver City, Century City, West LA, Santa Monica, Venice, and Mar Vista. Our technician brings the inkless pad, FD-258 cards, and protective sleeves. Scheduling details are on our mobile fingerprinting page.
7. Can FD-258 cards be used for FBI background checks and international visas?
Yes. FD-258 cards are accepted by the FBI for Identity History Summary checks and by many embassies and consulates worldwide. After your prints are completed, you simply mail the card to the correct FBI channeler or government office. For international use, we can also help with apostille services through our FBI apostille abroad guide.
8. What should I bring to my FD-258 fingerprinting appointment?
Bring:
- A valid passport or driver’s license
- Any agency instructions or cover sheets
- Specific mailing details for where your fingerprint card must be sent
If your instructions require an identity affidavit, bring the form—we can sign it during the appointment. To avoid errors, review our common fingerprint card mistakes guide.
9. How long do FBI results take when using an FD-258 card?
Mailed FD-258 cards typically take longer because the FBI must physically receive, scan, and process the card. Processing depends on whether you use direct FBI submission or an approved channeler. You can compare these timelines in our FBI background check travel guide.
10. I’m from out of state—can you still complete my FD-258 cards in Los Angeles?
Yes. Many clients visiting Los Angeles use our FD-258 service and then mail the cards to their out-of-state licensing board, employer, or FBI channeler. If you are comparing rules across states, refer to our out-of-state fingerprint submission guide.