Key Facts
- Live Scan fingerprinting is essential for professions requiring background checks, including healthcare, education, and finance.
- Appointments are necessary for Live Scan, but same-day bookings are available by calling or texting.
- Each Live Scan must be redone for new requests, as fingerprints are discarded after use.
- The DOJ typically processes fingerprints within 48 hours, but agency processing times may vary.
- Live Scan is faster, cleaner, and more accurate than traditional ink methods, making it popular for various applications.
Live Scan FAQs
Live Scan FAQs
Live Scan Fingerprinting FAQs
What is Live Scan fingerprinting?
Live Scan is an electronic fingerprinting process that captures high-quality digital images of your fingerprints and transmits them securely to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) or FBI. It’s used for background checks required by employers, licensing agencies, immigration authorities, and volunteer organizations. Compared to ink fingerprinting, Live Scan is faster, cleaner, and more accurate.
Who needs a Live Scan fingerprint?
You might need Live Scan fingerprinting if your job or certification requires a background check. This includes teachers, nurses, real estate agents, notaries, accountants, caregivers, and many other licensed professionals.
How much does Live Scan fingerprinting cost?
The cost of Live Scan fingerprinting varies depending on your agency’s ORI code and application type. To get an accurate estimate, bring your Request for Live Scan Service form. We’ll calculate your total fee based on both the rolling and government fees.
What do I need to bring to my Live Scan appointment?
Bring your completed Request for Live Scan Service form, a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport), and your payment method. If you’re unsure which form you need, ask the agency requesting your background check.
Can I schedule a Live Scan or just drop in?
We operate by appointment but often have same-day availability. Call or text us 24/7 to make an appointment.
Do I need to redo my Live Scan if I’ve done it before?
Yes. You’ll need a fresh Live Scan each time an agency asks for one. Fingerprints are only used for that specific request. Your prints aren’t saved for reuse by other employers or agencies.
How quickly does the DOJ or FBI process fingerprints?
The DOJ usually processes results within 48 hours, though some agencies may take longer to review them. Always keep your Applicant Tracking Identifier (ATI) number from your Live Scan form so you can track your submission status.
How do I check the status of my Live Scan submission?
You can check your submission status directly on the California DOJ website. Enter your ATI number and birth date to view updates.
What if my fingerprints are rejected?
If your Live Scan submission is rejected by the DOJ, you’ll receive a rejection letter. We’ll re-roll and resubmit your prints at no additional cost. Most clients only need to redo prints once, if ever.
Can I get my own criminal history check?
Yes. You can request your own criminal record from the California DOJ or the FBI for personal review. We can assist you with the submission if needed.
My agency’s details are wrong with Cal-DOJ. How do I fix this?
If your agency information is incorrect on your Live Scan form, contact the requesting agency directly to verify the ORI code and form details. We can help you correct and resubmit your prints properly.
Do you offer mobile Live Scan fingerprinting for groups?
Yes, we provide mobile Live Scan services across Los Angeles and nearby areas for groups, offices, or events. Contact us to schedule an on-site fingerprinting session.
Where can I get Live Scan fingerprinting near me?
You can visit us at Anshin Mobile Notary & Live Scan in Beverly Hills or Los Angeles, or request a mobile appointment. See our Live Scan page for office hours and directions.
Do you offer Live Scan fingerprinting for nursing license applicants?
Yes, we frequently assist nurses and other healthcare professionals who need Live Scan fingerprinting for state board licensing or renewal. Bring your Board of Nursing Live Scan form to ensure your submission is correctly routed.
More about Live Scan FAQs
Back in the day, getting your fingerprints taken meant inking up your fingers and carefully rolling them across a card to leave an impression. But technology’s come a long way, and now we’ve got something called live scan fingerprinting.
Live scan is pretty cool. It’s like something out of a spy movie – you place your fingers on a glass plate, and a scanner captures the prints electronically. No mess, no fuss. These digital prints are then whisked away through the digital ether to databases held by state authorities or even the FBI.
What’s great about live scan is that if the first scan doesn’t look good, you can just do it over on the spot until it’s just right. It’s become a big hit with the police and other agencies because it’s super accurate and helps them do their job better.
If you’re new to live scan, here’s the lowdown on how it works:
You go in, get your fingers scanned by this electronic gadget, and fill in some personal details. This info gets sent off to wherever it needs to go – like for background checks or identity verification. And because it’s all digital, there’s no inky evidence left behind.
Live scan isn’t just for the cops, though. It’s used all over the place – when you’re applying for professional licenses, certain permits, or jobs that need a clean record. It’s also part of the visa or immigration process sometimes.
If you need to get live scanned, you’ll have to fill out a specific form that you’ll get from whoever’s asking for your prints. Bring along some ID like a driver’s license (or a passport might work too). And yes, there’s usually a fee you’ll need to pay for the service.
So why is live scan the way to go? Well, it’s fast – no waiting around for snail mail to deliver your prints. It’s accurate – no smudgy ink means clearer prints, and if the print quality isn’t great, you can correct it on the fly. It’s also easy to send off – a couple of clicks and off they go. Plus, it’s better for the environment – no paper cards needed;)
