Live Scan fingerprinting is an essential step for background checks required by employers, licensing agencies, and certain volunteer organizations. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we understand that timing your appointment can make a big difference in avoiding delays, meeting deadlines, and ensuring your background check is processed smoothly.
Knowing when to schedule your Live Scan appointment is not just about convenience — it’s about making sure you meet the legal or professional requirements on time.
Whether you’re applying for a new job, renewing a professional license, or completing requirements for immigration or adoption, the timing of your Live Scan can directly impact how quickly you move forward.
Why Timing Matters for Live Scan Fingerprinting
Scheduling your Live Scan too late can create unnecessary stress, especially if you have strict deadlines from an employer or government agency. Conversely, scheduling too early could mean your results expire before they are used, depending on the agency’s requirements.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we guide our clients on when to book so that their fingerprint results arrive exactly when needed.
Factors That Influence the Right Time to Schedule
Several factors will determine the best time for your appointment:
- Processing Times – The California Department of Justice (DOJ) typically processes Live Scan submissions within 3–7 business days, but delays can occur during peak seasons.
- Agency Deadlines – Some agencies require results within a specific time frame from your application date.
- Background Check Requirements – Certain clearances are time-sensitive and linked to hiring cycles or licensing renewals.
- Peak and Off-Peak Seasons – Summer and year-end often bring higher demand due to academic, employment, and licensing cycles.
Best Times of Year to Schedule Your Live Scan Appointment
Off-Peak Months
If possible, schedule your Live Scan during off-peak times such as January to March or September to early November. During these months, processing is often quicker because fewer people are requesting fingerprint services. This means you can receive your results faster and with less chance of delays.
Peak Demand Periods
Avoid waiting until late spring or December if your deadline is strict. These months are busy due to school hiring, licensing renewals, and volunteer programs preparing for the new year. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we increase our availability during these peak times, but booking early is still the safest approach.
Best Days of the Week for a Live Scan Appointment
Midweek Advantages
Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are usually the best days for scheduling. Mondays can be busy due to weekend backlog, and Fridays may cause processing delays since agencies often process requests on business days only.
Morning Appointments for Faster Processing
If you want the fastest turnaround, book a morning appointment. This allows your fingerprints to be transmitted to the DOJ the same day, reducing overall processing time.
How Far in Advance You Should Schedule
For Job Applications
If your employer requests a background check, book your Live Scan as soon as you receive the paperwork. Generally, one to two weeks before your deadline is ideal to ensure enough time for processing.
For Licensing or Certification
Licensing boards often have strict submission windows. Scheduling three to four weeks in advance gives you a comfortable buffer to handle any unforeseen delays.
For Volunteer and Adoption Processes
These processes sometimes involve multiple background checks. Book at least a month ahead to coordinate with other steps in the process.
Same-Day and Mobile Live Scan Options
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we understand that sometimes you simply cannot wait. That’s why we offer same-day appointments and mobile Live Scan services.
If you have an urgent deadline, our mobile service comes to you — whether at your home, workplace, or event location — saving you time and reducing the risk of missing important cutoffs.
Learn more about our Mobile Live Scan services here.
How to Prepare Before Your Appointment
Gather the Required Information
Before booking, make sure you have the Request for Live Scan Service form (BCIA 8016) from your requesting agency. Double-check that all fields are filled out correctly to avoid processing delays.
Bring Proper Identification
Acceptable IDs include a California driver’s license, state-issued ID, or a valid passport. Having your ID ready ensures a smooth appointment process.
Consider Additional Services
Since we also provide mobile notary services, many clients schedule both Live Scan and notarization in one visit for maximum efficiency.
The Role of Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan in Helping You Choose the Right Time
Our experienced team has helped thousands of clients meet strict deadlines without stress. We know the patterns in DOJ processing times, peak demand cycles, and agency requirements. Whether you’re booking weeks in advance or need a same-day service, we work to ensure you get fingerprinted at the optimal time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get Live Scan results back?
In most cases, Live Scan results are processed within 3–7 business days. However, some results can take longer if there are background review complexities or if the fingerprint images need re-submission. Booking early reduces the risk of missing deadlines.
Can I schedule my Live Scan months in advance?
Yes, but it’s important to ensure your requesting agency will still accept the results if they are dated far ahead of your application. Many agencies have specific time frames, so check before booking too early.
Is there a difference in processing time if I schedule in the morning versus afternoon?
Yes. Morning appointments are transmitted to the DOJ the same day, often speeding up the process. Afternoon appointments may be processed the following business day.
Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in for Live Scan?
While we sometimes accept walk-ins at Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, booking an appointment ensures you get service at your preferred time and helps us guarantee faster processing.
What if my deadline is tomorrow?
We offer emergency same-day and mobile Live Scan appointments to help you meet urgent deadlines. Contact us immediately so we can arrange the fastest possible service.
Final Thoughts
The best time to schedule your Live Scan appointment depends on your specific deadline, the time of year, and how quickly your results are needed. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we make it our mission to help you plan strategically so that your fingerprints are processed efficiently and without stress.
Whether you’re booking weeks ahead or need us to come to you tomorrow, our professional team is here to make your Live Scan experience smooth and timely.
Book your Live Scan appointment with us today and get the timing right from the start.
