Key Facts
- Live Scan is an electronic fingerprinting process that captures and transmits fingerprints for background checks.
- Background checks review an applicant's criminal history and can be name-based or fingerprint-based.
- Live Scan is used for employment, licensing, adoption, and immigration processes, primarily in California.
- Live Scan and background checks work together; Live Scan initiates the background check by providing necessary fingerprints.
- Choosing a certified provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan ensures accurate fingerprinting and compliance with state and federal laws.
When applying for jobs, professional licenses, or immigration processes, people often encounter two terms: Live Scan and background check. While they are related, they are not the same. Many applicants mistakenly believe that Live Scan and background checks are interchangeable, but understanding the difference is crucial to avoid delays or rejections.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we help applicants across California navigate these requirements with clarity. This guide explains how Live Scan differs from background checks, what each involves, and how they work together to ensure compliance with state and federal laws.
What is Live Scan?
Definition
Live Scan is an electronic fingerprinting process used to capture an applicant’s fingerprints digitally. Instead of relying on ink-and-card methods, Live Scan transmits fingerprints directly to state or federal agencies for evaluation.
Purpose
Live Scan itself is not a background check. Instead, it is a method of fingerprint collection and transmission that facilitates a background check. Without Live Scan (or ink fingerprint cards), agencies like the California Department of Justice (DOJ) or FBI cannot access your criminal history records.
Who Uses Live Scan?
Live Scan is commonly used in California for:
- Employment with state agencies
- Professional licensing (nurses, real estate agents, teachers)
- Adoption processes
- Immigration documentation
- Security and healthcare roles
What is a Background Check?
Definition
A background check is the review of an applicant’s criminal history and other records. It can be name-based or fingerprint-based. In California and federally, fingerprint-based background checks are preferred because they are more accurate.
Purpose
The purpose of a background check is to verify whether an individual has a criminal history that could impact employment, licensing, immigration, or adoption eligibility.
Who Requires Background Checks?
- Employers hiring for sensitive positions
- Licensing boards
- Immigration authorities
- International adoption agencies
- Law enforcement and security agencies
Live Scan vs. Background Check: The Key Differences
Function
- Live Scan: A tool for capturing and sending fingerprints.
- Background Check: The investigation and reporting of criminal records.
Process
- Live Scan: Involves visiting a certified provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan to capture prints electronically.
- Background Check: Conducted by state or federal agencies once they receive fingerprints.
Scope
- Live Scan: Limited to fingerprint collection and secure transmission.
- Background Check: Can be state-level (DOJ or BCI) or nationwide (FBI).
Timeline
- Live Scan: Instant submission of fingerprints.
- Background Check: Results depend on agency processing times, usually days to weeks.
How Live Scan and Background Checks Work Together
Live Scan and background checks are interconnected. The Live Scan process begins the background check by providing the fingerprints needed to search criminal databases. Without Live Scan, agencies cannot complete an accurate fingerprint-based background check.
For example:
- A teacher in California submits Live Scan fingerprints through a provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan.
- Those prints are sent to the California DOJ and/or FBI.
- The agency conducts the background check using fingerprint databases.
- Results are then returned to the requesting employer or licensing board.
State vs. Federal Background Checks Through Live Scan
State-Level (DOJ or BCI)
When fingerprints are submitted through Live Scan for state-level processing, the results show only criminal records within that state.
Federal-Level (FBI)
When fingerprints are routed to the FBI, the resulting report covers national criminal history records across all states and U.S. territories.
Combined Requests
Many professions require both state and federal checks, which means fingerprints are transmitted to both DOJ and FBI simultaneously through Live Scan.
Common Misconceptions
“Live Scan is a Background Check”
False. Live Scan is the method of fingerprint capture and submission, while the background check is the actual review of criminal history.
“All Background Checks Are the Same”
False. Some are name-based, others are fingerprint-based. Fingerprint-based checks (initiated by Live Scan) are far more reliable.
“Results Go Directly to the Applicant”
False. In most cases, results are sent directly to the requesting agency, not to the applicant.
The Importance of Accuracy in Live Scan
Because Live Scan fingerprints are transmitted electronically, they eliminate many errors found in ink fingerprint cards. Smudging, incomplete prints, or clerical mistakes are reduced, ensuring faster results.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, our trained staff ensures fingerprints are captured correctly on the first attempt, saving applicants time and avoiding resubmission delays.
Why Choose Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan?
Choosing the right Live Scan provider is just as important as choosing the correct background check. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we provide:
- Certified Live Scan fingerprinting approved by California DOJ and FBI
- Mobile notary services for additional documentation needs
- Fast and secure submission of fingerprints
- Guidance on whether your request requires a state or federal background check
- Convenience, with mobile and in-office service options
Visit us at Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan to schedule your Live Scan today.
FAQs: Live Scan vs. Background Check
Is Live Scan the same as a background check?
No, Live Scan is not the same as a background check. Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting process used to collect your fingerprints and send them securely to state and federal agencies, such as the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI. These agencies then perform the actual background check by reviewing your criminal history or records. Live Scan is the method of collecting and submitting your fingerprints, whereas the background check is the review of your history based on those fingerprints.
How long does a Live Scan background check take?
Most Live Scan background checks are processed within 2 to 5 business days after your fingerprints are submitted. However, processing time can vary depending on the agency’s workload and whether there are any issues reading your fingerprints or matching records. It’s always best to check with the requesting agency for the most accurate timeline, and you can track the status of your Live Scan submission online using your ATI number.
Do I need both state and federal background checks?
You may need both state and federal background checks depending on your employer or licensing agency’s requirements. Many roles in healthcare, education, childcare, and government require both checks to ensure you have no disqualifying records at either the state or national level. Your requesting agency will specify if you need both, and your Live Scan form will indicate which checks are required.
Can I get my Live Scan results directly?
No, in most cases, Live Scan results are sent straight to the requesting agency or employer, not to the person being fingerprinted. However, you can request your own criminal history report using a specific “record review” Live Scan form. This way, the California Department of Justice will send the results directly to you for personal review.
Where can I get Live Scan services in California?
You can get Live Scan fingerprinting at authorized private service providers throughout California. These are not typically available at local police stations anymore. To find a convenient Live Scan location near you, use the official California Department of Justice search tool. Simply enter your city or zip code—for example, Los Angeles County locations can be found here. For highly rated, mobile-friendly service, visit Anshin Mobile Notary & LiveScan in Beverly Hills or contact us for on-site appointments.
Conclusion
The difference between Live Scan and background checks is simple yet significant. Live Scan is the fingerprinting method that enables agencies to conduct accurate background checks. A background check, on the other hand, is the review of an individual’s criminal history records.
By understanding the difference, applicants can avoid confusion and delays in their employment, licensing, or immigration processes. For reliable fingerprinting and guidance on background checks, trust Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan to streamline the process.
Visit https://anshinotary.com/ today to get started.
