Live Scan Fingerprinting Services in Los Angeles - Fast, Reliable and Secure
What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting and Why It Matters
Live Scan fingerprinting is a fast, secure way to submit fingerprints electronically to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and, when required, the FBI. It’s used to verify criminal background history for jobs, licenses, volunteer work, immigration, and more. Unlike traditional ink fingerprinting, Live Scan captures high-quality digital images and transmits them instantly — reducing errors and speeding up results.
We offer same-day appointments, including mobile fingerprinting services, but we do not accept walk-ins. Booking an appointment helps us give you faster service and ensure your fingerprint submission meets all legal requirements. Our team is here to help you through the process, whether you’re applying for a job, a state license, or international immigration documentation.
Why Do People Need Live Scan Fingerprinting?
Live Scan is required in California for many professional licenses, employment, volunteer positions, and background checks. Agencies request a Live Scan to verify whether you have a criminal history with the California Department of Justice (DOJ), and sometimes with the FBI.
Examples include jobs in healthcare, education, caregiving, and real estate, as well as adoption, visa, or immigration processes. Our team regularly helps individuals who need background clearance for employment, licensure, or international use.
What Should I Expect at My Live Scan Appointment?
Clients often ask what to bring, how long it takes, and what happens during their Live Scan appointment. We walk you through each step and make the process simple.
You’ll need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID and a completed Request for Live Scan Service form provided by your requesting agency. The scan itself only takes a few minutes, and we’ll electronically submit your fingerprints the same day to the DOJ and/or FBI.
Results are typically returned quickly — often within hours, depending on the agency. You can check the status of your submission through the agency or using the secure link the DOJ or FBI provides.
What type of fingerprinting do I need?
The type of fingerprinting you need depends on the agency requesting your background check. In most cases, especially for jobs, licenses, or volunteer positions in California, you’ll need Live Scan fingerprinting, which electronically sends your prints to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) or the FBI.
Some employers or government agencies outside California — or abroad — may require fingerprints on physical cards, such as the standard FD-258 fingerprint card. We can produce these by scanning your fingerprints digitally and printing them onto cards for submission.
If you’re unsure what format your agency requires, we’re here to help. You can also consult with your requesting agency or review state-specific requirements through resources like the California DOJ.
Electronic Live Scan Fingerprints or Ink Fingerprinting on FD258 Fingerprint Cards?
Most California agencies require Live Scan fingerprinting, which electronically transmits your fingerprints to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and, if necessary, to the FBI. This method is faster and more accurate than traditional ink fingerprinting.
However, some out-of-state and international agencies still require fingerprinting on standard FD-258 cards. We can assist with both methods. For FBI background checks and apostille services, we typically scan your fingerprints digitally and print them onto FD-258 fingerprint cards — saving time and ensuring clarity.
If you’re unsure which format your requesting agency needs, we’ll help you figure it out before your appointment. You can also check the California DOJ website or contact your requesting agency directly.
Understanding Live Scan Fingerprinting Costs
Live Scan fingerprinting costs are made up of two parts: the government’s background check fee and the fingerprint rolling (or service) fee we charge. The state fee varies depending on your job or licensing agency — it typically ranges from $0 to $75 and is determined by the California DOJ Fee Schedule.
Our in-office rolling fee is $35, which includes electronic submission and support. Mobile appointments may include an additional fee based on your location. For a detailed explanation of fees for large groups or onsite events, visit our Mobile Live Scan for Groups page.
If you’re not sure what fees apply to your situation, contact us with your ORI or Requesting Agency information, and we’ll help you confirm the total cost before your appointment.
We offer special group discounts! Call for details!
What to Prepare for Your Live Scan Fingerprinting Appointment
To make your Live Scan appointment smooth and successful, please bring the following:
- A completed Request for Live Scan Form (typically provided by your employer, licensing agency, or requesting party)
- A valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport
- Payment method — we accept credit/debit cards, Apple Pay, and other contactless forms
If your ID has expired or is missing, check out our guide on notarization without an ID for acceptable alternatives. Please note: we do not accept walk-ins — but same-day appointments are usually available.
Still have questions? See our full Live Scan FAQ or contact our team for help preparing your documents.
Live Scan Fingerprinting Service Areas
We proudly offer Live Scan fingerprinting services across Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Whether you visit one of our offices or schedule a mobile appointment, we serve neighborhoods including:
- Beverly Hills
- West Los Angeles
- Century City
- Mid-Wilshire
- Culver City
- Brentwood
- Santa Monica
- Bel Air
- Hollywood
Need fingerprinting at your location? Our mobile Live Scan services are ideal for employers, schools, nonprofits, and licensing agencies. We’re familiar with the requirements set by the California Department of Justice and FBI, and we ensure your submission meets all state and federal guidelines.
What to do for Rejected Fingerprints
If your fingerprints are rejected by the California DOJ or FBI due to poor quality or unreadable images, don’t worry. We offer free re-scans if your original Live Scan was completed with us — just bring your rejection letter.
To avoid delays, make sure your hands are clean, dry, and free of lotion before your appointment. We’ll take multiple images to ensure the clearest scan possible.
In the rare case that your prints are rejected a second time, you won’t be required to submit another Live Scan. The DOJ or FBI will use alternative methods to complete your background check. Learn more about the Live Scan status check process or contact us if you’ve received a rejection notice and need help rebooking.
Fingerprint Technology
There are many reasons why fingerprints might be rejected. We use state of the art live scan fingerprinting machine technology that, together with the computer systems at the California Department of Justice and the FBI, perform a sophisticated technical analysis of fingerprint friction ridges.
Fingerprint History, Science and Anatomy
Dating back to 300 B.C., fingerprinting has been around for a while. Learn about fingerprint history, fingerprint science and fingerprint anatomy on our blog.
Need us to come to you? We offer mobile Live Scan fingerprinting services for groups at offices, schools, nursing facilities, production sets, and other locations across Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, and nearby areas. This is ideal for organizations that need to process multiple individuals efficiently and securely at once.
Our technicians bring all necessary equipment and provide the same high-quality, DOJ-compliant service as you’d receive in our office. We ensure accurate fingerprint capture and proper transmission to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI if needed.
If your organization requires fingerprinting for licenses, employment, or volunteer screening, our mobile team can simplify the process. Contact us to learn more or request a quote for on-site fingerprinting services.
How Long Does Live Scan Fingerprinting Take
The fingerprinting process itself usually takes just 10–15 minutes. Once your fingerprints are submitted electronically via Live Scan, most applicants receive results from the California DOJ within 1–3 business days. If FBI background checks are required, those typically return in under 24 hours.
At Anshin Mobile Notary & Live Scan, we prioritize accuracy and efficiency to minimize delays. Same-day appointments are available, but walk-ins are not accepted, so please book online or call ahead.
Note: Delays may occur if your requesting agency has not submitted the proper Request for Live Scan form. Learn what to bring by reviewing our guide on Live Scan appointment preparation.
Processing Time for Live Scan Results
Most California Department of Justice (DOJ) background check results are returned within 1–3 business days when submitted via Live Scan. For requests that include an FBI background check, results typically return the same day—often within hours—when fingerprints are submitted electronically.
At Anshin Notary & Live Scan, we submit fingerprints digitally to both the DOJ and FBI using certified systems. We also provide guidance on how applicants can retrieve their results quickly once processed, including step-by-step instructions based on the confirmation email they’ll receive from the FBI.
Need to check the status of a submission? Visit our Live Scan status check page for detailed instructions.
What is Live Scan fingerprinting, and how does it differ from traditional ink fingerprinting?
Live Scan fingerprinting is a digital process that captures and transmits your fingerprints electronically to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) or the FBI. Unlike traditional ink fingerprinting on cards, Live Scan is faster, more accurate, and often required for employment, licensing, or background checks in California. Learn more on our Live Scan page.
Who is required to undergo Live Scan fingerprinting?
Live Scan is typically required for individuals applying for jobs or licenses in education, healthcare, real estate, legal services, caregiving, and other regulated fields. It is also used for volunteer positions, immigration processes, and adoption.
What documents and identification are needed for a Live Scan appointment?
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) and the completed “Request for Live Scan Service” form provided by the requesting agency. If you don’t have ID, visit our Notary Without ID page to learn about alternate ID options (note: ID requirements are stricter for Live Scan).
How do I schedule a Live Scan fingerprinting appointment with Anshin Notary?
Scheduling is easy. Visit our Contact page to book online or call us directly. We offer same-day appointments at both our Beverly Hills and Los Angeles offices and provide mobile Live Scan services for groups or on-site needs.
What are the costs associated with Live Scan fingerprinting services?
Our rolling fee is $30. Government fees vary depending on the requesting agency and the type of background check. Visit our Live Scan Fingerprinting page for complete pricing details and cost estimates.
How long does the Live Scan fingerprinting process take, and when can I expect results?
The process takes about 10–15 minutes. Results are typically available within 24 hours after electronic submission. The DOJ or FBI sends results directly to the requesting agency. We provide tracking details when available.
What should I do if my fingerprints are rejected or unreadable?
If your prints are rejected due to image quality, we’ll reprint and resubmit at no additional charge. You’ll never need more than two Live Scan attempts. Our team will explain what to bring for your reprint and help you meet any agency deadlines.
Do you offer mobile Live Scan fingerprinting services, and what areas do you cover?
Yes! We provide mobile Live Scan fingerprinting across Los Angeles, including Beverly Hills, West LA, Century City, Culver City, and Mid-Wilshire. Learn more about our mobile group services.
Can Live Scan results be sent to multiple agencies or reused for different purposes?
No. Each Live Scan submission is tied to a specific agency and ORI code. A new submission is required for each agency requesting your background check. This protects your data and ensures correct routing.
What is an ORI code, and how do I obtain it for my Live Scan submission?
The ORI (Originating Agency Identifier) code is assigned by the agency requesting your background check. It tells the DOJ or FBI where to send your results and is found on the “Request for Live Scan Service” form. If you don’t have it, contact the agency directly.
Live Scan Fingerprinting Fees
Our Service Fees
- Rolling Fee: $30
- Travel Fee: Call for quote
Government Fees (either one or both will apply) (as of May 2017)
- CA Dept of Justice $32 or more depending on application type
- FBI $17
Additional Information
- Additional fees may apply for after hours mobile Live Scan, holidays, and significant travel.
- We Accept Most Forms of Payment Payment for the Live Scan service in the form of exact cash, credit card, Venmo etc. NO PERSONAL CHECKS.
- Resubmission – Re-do for rejected prints; no charge if original Live Scan was processed by us.
- Please contact us today for a quote, help@anshinotarycom, or 1-424-253-8149
- Government fees may vary per applicant’s Requesting Agency, Government entity and/or other level of service requested.
- The rolling fee covers the Live Scan Provider’s cost for performing the electronic fingerprinting task.
- Non-profit and large group discounts available.
- Contact us to set up an escrow (draw down) accounts. All fees are subject to change without notice and the rolling fees may also vary by location.
- Current and all other Government Applicant Fee Rates can be found on the California Attorney General’s website here. (Department of Justice Live Scan Fingerprint Processing Fees) *Fees subject to change
