Key Facts
- Live Scan fingerprinting is the standard method for background checks, offering electronic submission to agencies like the DOJ and FBI.
- Delays in receiving Live Scan clearance can impact job opportunities, immigration processes, and adoption timelines.
- Common causes of delays include incomplete forms, poor fingerprint quality, and agency processing times.
- To expedite clearance, choose a reliable provider, verify forms, and consider mobile Live Scan services for convenience.
- Even with best practices, delays can occur; contacting the DOJ or resubmitting fingerprints may be necessary.
In California and across the United States, Live Scan fingerprinting has become the standard method of submitting fingerprints for background checks. Unlike traditional ink methods, Live Scan transmits fingerprints electronically to the Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and other authorized agencies.
While the process is straightforward, many applicants face delays in receiving their clearance results. Whether you’re applying for a professional license, working in healthcare, volunteering, or undergoing immigration-related screenings, waiting weeks for your clearance can be stressful.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we specialize in helping clients expedite their Live Scan process by ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.
Why Speed Matters in Live Scan Clearance
Professional Licensing
Teachers, nurses, real estate agents, and other professionals often need Live Scan clearance before they can begin working. A delay can mean lost job opportunities or postponed licensing.
Immigration and Visa Processing
Some immigration-related filings require background checks through Live Scan. Delays can affect visa approval timelines.
Adoption and Foster Care
Adoption agencies and foster care programs require Live Scan fingerprinting to verify background checks. An expedited clearance helps families avoid long wait times during an already emotional process.
Business and Employment
Companies hiring employees who need security clearance or who will handle sensitive information rely on fast Live Scan results to onboard staff quickly.
Common Causes of Live Scan Delays
Even though Live Scan is designed to be fast, errors and procedural mistakes often slow the process. Here are the most frequent causes:
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Forms
Your Live Scan form must be filled out completely with accurate information. Missing or incorrect data (such as Social Security numbers, ORI codes, or agency information) will cause processing delays.
2. Poor Fingerprint Quality
If your fingerprints are smudged, incomplete, or unclear due to dry skin, cuts, or worn ridges, the DOJ or FBI may reject them. Re-submission adds time.
3. Agency Processing Times
Even if your fingerprints are transmitted correctly, the agency responsible for reviewing them may take additional time, especially during peak periods.
4. Technical Errors in Transmission
Occasionally, electronic transmission errors or equipment malfunctions cause delays. This can require re-scanning.
How to Expedite Your Live Scan Fingerprint Clearance
The good news is that delays can be minimized. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we recommend several strategies for expediting your clearance.
1. Choose a Reliable Live Scan Provider
Not all Live Scan operators are equal. A professional provider ensures accurate capture and submission of your fingerprints the first time. Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan uses state-of-the-art equipment to reduce errors and ensure your scans are transmitted immediately.
2. Verify Your Form Before the Appointment
Always double-check that your Request for Live Scan Service form is completed correctly with accurate agency information. Bring multiple copies to your appointment.
3. Schedule Mobile Live Scan Services
Instead of visiting a busy office, mobile Live Scan services can save time. Our team can come directly to your location—whether that’s your office, home, or agency—so you don’t lose time traveling or waiting in line.
4. Improve Fingerprint Quality Before Scanning
To prevent rejections, moisturize your hands before your appointment, avoid cuts or abrasions, and ensure your fingers are clean. For those with worn fingerprint ridges (such as seniors), we apply special techniques to capture clearer prints.
5. Request DOJ/FBI Status Checks
If you suspect your clearance is delayed, you can request a status check from the DOJ. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we guide clients through this process so you don’t remain in the dark.
6. Avoid Peak Times
If possible, avoid scheduling your Live Scan during peak hiring or licensing seasons. Agencies tend to process faster during off-peak months.

The Role of Mobile Live Scan Services
Convenience at Your Doorstep
Mobile Live Scan eliminates scheduling conflicts, travel, and long wait times. This is especially useful for:
- Employers onboarding large groups
- Families completing adoption paperwork
- Busy professionals applying for licenses
Faster Transmission Times
Because we use high-quality machines and reliable connectivity, your fingerprints are transmitted to DOJ/FBI immediately, reducing the chance of transmission errors.
Secure Handling of Documents
We ensure that all documents and fingerprint data are handled with the highest level of confidentiality, reducing the risk of errors or misplaced paperwork.
What to Do If Your Live Scan Results Are Delayed
Even with best practices, delays sometimes happen. Here’s how you can handle them:
Contact the DOJ
You can call the California DOJ automated system and check your status using your ATI number from the Live Scan form.
Contact the Requesting Agency
If your fingerprints were processed but the agency hasn’t received them, contact them directly for updates.
Resubmit Fingerprints If Necessary
If your fingerprints are rejected due to poor quality, you’ll typically be allowed to resubmit at no additional cost. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we ensure that resubmission is handled promptly.
Interlinking Opportunity
Since your website also covers related notary and apostille services, you can link internally like this:
- If your Live Scan is part of adoption paperwork, you may also need Apostille Services for Adoption Agencies in LA.
- For immigration-related documents, see our guide on Apostille Services for Immigration Documents.
- If your clearance is required for professional licensing abroad, you may also benefit from reading about How to Apostille a Power of Attorney for International Use.
Why Choose Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan?
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we don’t just capture fingerprints—we help clients complete the entire process efficiently and correctly the first time. With mobile options, flexible scheduling, and error-free scanning, we help you get your clearance as fast as possible.
Whether you’re a professional, employer, or family, our services are tailored to your needs. By combining notary services, apostille support, and Live Scan fingerprinting, we ensure your paperwork and background checks are handled seamlessly.
FAQs About Expedited Live Scan Fingerprinting
1. How long does Live Scan fingerprint clearance usually take?
Most results are returned within 3–7 business days, but it can take longer depending on the agency reviewing the fingerprints.
2. Can Live Scan be expedited?
Yes. While the DOJ and FBI ultimately control processing times, choosing a reliable provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan minimizes errors, ensures fast transmission, and avoids unnecessary delays.
3. What should I bring to my Live Scan appointment?
Bring a completed Request for Live Scan Service form, a valid government-issued photo ID, and payment for the service.
4. What happens if my fingerprints are rejected?
If fingerprints are rejected due to poor quality, you will be asked to resubmit at no additional fee. We take preventive steps to capture high-quality prints the first time.
5. Can you provide mobile Live Scan for large groups?
Yes. We specialize in mobile Live Scan services for employers, adoption agencies, and other organizations that need fast, convenient group processing.
Conclusion
Live Scan fingerprinting is essential for licensing, employment, immigration, and adoption. But waiting weeks for clearance can disrupt important plans. By choosing a professional and mobile provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, you can minimize delays and ensure your fingerprints are submitted accurately and securely.
If you’re looking for fast and reliable Live Scan services in Los Angeles, reach out to us today and let us help expedite your clearance.
👉 Visit us at Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan to schedule your appointment.