Fingerprint Cards for Out of State Applications

What Is an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?

The FBI publishes the official FD-258 fingerprint card format here:
FD-258 Fingerprint Card (FBI)

The FD-258 fingerprint card is a standard FBI fingerprint card used for many out-of-state and federal processes. Ink fingerprints are rolled onto the card, then mailed to the agency or processor listed in your instructions.

Need the basics on fingerprint cards (and what to bring)? See our main guide:
Fingerprint Cards (FD-258) Guide

Out-of-State License or Certification: The Step-by-Step Process

1) Read your instructions carefully (this prevents 90% of issues)

• Confirm whether they require FD-258 cards or Live Scan. However, “Live Scan” is a term of art and only applies to electronic submissions made within the state by a fingerprinting agency that is licensed by that state to electronically submit fingerprints within that state.
• Check how many cards they want (often 2 cards, but varies).
• Confirm where the cards must be sent and whether any forms must be included. Agencies often require the fingerprinting agency to sign an affidavit or other document to verify the applicant’s identity.
• Look for rules like: black ink only, signature required, date format, or specific ORI number.

2) Get your fingerprints taken professionally (quality matters)

Out-of-state agencies can reject cards for common quality issues (smudges, too light, incomplete rolls). A clean set of prints helps reduce delays and resubmissions.

It’s recommended that applicants submit two (2) cards. If one of the cards is rejected due to print quality issues, the second card may be used for resubmission. If the second card is also rejected because of poor print quality, most agencies will push through the background check application based on the applicant’s personal unique identifiers such as name, date of birth, social security number, etc.

3) Complete the card details correctly

Most rejections happen because of missing or incorrect fields. Depending on your instructions, pay extra attention to:

• ORI / Agency identifiers (if provided)
• Employer / license board info
• Full legal name and DOB matching your ID
• Signature and date (where required)

Guidance on completing the fingerprint card can be found here.

Note that the agency taking the applicant’s fingerprints must also sign and date the card.

4) Mail the cards exactly as instructed

Some agencies want the cards mailed directly to them; others require the cards to be included in a larger application packet. Make sure to include one sheet of paper between cards, and to insert the cards into an airtight plastic bag (ie. Ziploc). Use a trackable shipping method to ensure your agency receives your cards.

Ink Fingerprints vs Live Scan for Out-of-State Requirements

Live Scan is typically California-specific (CA DOJ / FBI results routed through CA systems). Some other states have their own “Live Scan” systems. However, nearly all “Live Scan” systems are meant for in-state electronic submissions and are prohibited from electronically transmitting fingerprint submissions across state lines.

Fingerprint cards are commonly used when an out-of-state agency needs a mailed submission. If you’re still deciding, read: Live Scan vs FD-258 (ink cards)

If Your Out-of-State Process Also Requires an FBI Background Check

Some out-of-state or international workflows require an FBI Identity History Summary (often called an “FBI background check”). That can be requested in different ways, and the correct method depends entirely on your agency’s instructions.

• Direct FBI submission using FD-258 cards (mail-in ink fingerprints)
• Electronic FBI submission through an approved channeler (when permitted)

Many applicants assume these methods are interchangeable, but that’s not always the case. Some agencies specifically require mailed FD-258 cards, while others allow or prefer electronic submission.

If your instructions mention the FBI but don’t clearly state how fingerprints must be submitted, start here:

FBI Background Check: Submission Options Explained

Common Reasons Fingerprint Cards Get Rejected (and How to Avoid Them)

Out-of-state agencies reject fingerprint cards for reasons that are almost always preventable. The most common issues include:

• Smudged, smeared, or overly light impressions
• Incomplete rolled prints or missing flat impressions
• Missing signatures, dates, or required fields
• Incorrect ORI or agency identifiers
• Using the wrong card type or ink color

Professional fingerprinting significantly reduces rejection risk. Submitting two cards (when allowed) also provides a backup if one card fails quality review.

Do Out-of-State Fingerprint Cards Need to Be Apostilled?

Fingerprint cards themselves are not apostilled. However, the results generated from those fingerprints—such as an FBI Identity History Summary or clearance letter—may need an apostille if they’re being used internationally.

This is common for applications involving:

• Immigration or residency abroad
• Citizenship applications
• International employment or licensing

If your documents will be used outside the United States, learn more here:

Apostille Services: What Needs an Apostille and When

Fingerprint Cards for Out-of-State Applications in Los Angeles

If you’re located in Los Angeles and need FD-258 fingerprint cards for an out-of-state application, we provide:

• Professional ink fingerprinting on FD-258 cards
• Careful review of your agency instructions
• Multiple cards when required or recommended
• Guidance to help avoid common rejection issues

If you’re unsure whether your agency requires Live Scan or fingerprint cards, start with this overview:

Fingerprinting Services in Los Angeles: Live Scan & FD-258

Still not sure? Confirming the correct fingerprint method before your appointment is the fastest way to avoid delays.

Frequently Asked Questions: Out-of-State Fingerprint Cards