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5211 West Adams Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016
113 N San Vicente Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90211
An Electronic FBI Background Checks and mailed FD-258 fingerprint cards can both lead to the same end result: your federal Identity History Summary (often called an “FBI background check” or “FBI rap sheet”)—but they differ significantly in how fingerprints are captured, submitted, and processed.
If you were told “you need fingerprints” but your instructions are unclear, start here: Live Scan vs FD-258 Ink Fingerprints: Which One Do I Need?. For a broader overview of all options, see our main guide: Fingerprinting in Los Angeles: Live Scan & FD-258 Explained.
If you’re still unsure, our FBI Background Check service page explains what you receive and how the process works end-to-end.
An electronic FBI background check is a method of obtaining your FBI Identity History Summary via an electronic submission workflow rather than mailing a physical fingerprint card. In many cases, this route is significantly faster because it reduces mailing time and minimizes problems caused by poor-quality ink prints. This route uses FBI Channel Partners who are authorized by the FBI to make electronic submissions.
Many applicants get stuck because the FBI CJIS Division website instructions can point people toward places like the post office for certain electronic workflows—but those locations are not always set up like a dedicated fingerprinting office. People often come to us after a frustrating experience (long waits, unclear instructions, or fingerprint quality issues) and want a smoother, more professional process. If that’s you, you may also find this helpful: Easy Background Checks for Travel.
Note that not all agencies treat electronic submissions and FD-258 Fingerprint Card submissions identically, so you need to confirm with your agency which type is required.
FD-258 fingerprint cards are physical cards that capture your fingerprints using ink (rolled prints). The card is then mailed to the requesting agency, which uses it to run a background check (often through the FBI’s systems or related channels).
This method is commonly used for out-of-state licensing, immigration, and other scenarios where the agency specifically requires a mailed FD-258 card. If you need help completing the card correctly, use our step-by-step guide: How to Fill Out an FD-258 Fingerprint Card (Los Angeles).
For general information about ink fingerprinting and fingerprint cards, see: Fingerprint Cards & Ink Fingerprinting.
| Factor | Electronic FBI Background Check | Mailed FD-258 Fingerprint Cards |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Often much faster (no mailing delays) | Slower (mailing + processing time) |
| Fingerprint capture | Digital capture / electronic workflow (varies by method) | Ink rolled prints on FD-258 card |
| Common use cases | Overseas immigration application, time-sensitive FBI Identity History Summary requests | Out-of-state licensing, immigration, agencies requiring mailed fingerprint cards |
| Risk of rejection | Can be lower when prints are captured professionally | Higher if ink prints are smudged/light, card is filled out incorrectly, or if card is damaged during shipping |
| What agencies accept | Depends on the requesting authority’s instructions | Often explicitly required by certain agencies |
Important: The “right” option isn’t about preference—it’s about what your requesting agency will accept. If your instructions say “FD-258,” don’t substitute another method without confirming acceptance first.
Not always. Some applicants can reach the same endpoint—an FBI Identity History Summary—through an electronic submission route. The best way to confirm is to read your instructions carefully and compare them to this decision guide: Live Scan vs FD-258: Which One Do I Need?.
Many people do go that route—then realize it may not feel like a dedicated fingerprinting environment. Fingerprints are a specialized process, and outcomes can depend on proper technique, clear instructions, and fingerprint quality. If you want a smoother process, a dedicated provider can help you avoid common issues and ensure your submission is done correctly the first time.
This is extremely common. If the instructions aren’t clear, review:
If you’re doing FD-258, avoid preventable errors by using our fill-out guide: FD-258 Instructions + Common Mistakes.
If you’re in a hurry (especially for travel), you may also want to read: Easy Background Checks for Travel.
If you can share the exact wording from your request letter or instructions, we can usually tell you which path is appropriate before you book or submit anything. Start with our decision guide here: Live Scan vs FD-258: Which One Do I Need?, then use our main overview for context: Fingerprinting in Los Angeles: Live Scan & FD-258 Explained.
Ready to move forward? If your goal is an FBI Identity History Summary, visit our service page: FBI Background Check.
In many contexts, yes—people use “FBI background check,” “FBI rap sheet,” and “Identity History Summary” interchangeably. See: FBI Background Check.
Only if your agency confirms they will accept an alternate submission method. If they specifically require FD-258, follow their instructions.
Poor print quality, smudging, light impressions, or incorrect card completion. Use our guide to avoid mistakes: FD-258 Fingerprint Card Instructions.
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