Live Scan vs FD-258 Ink Fingerprints: Which One Do I Need?

Quick decision guide

• You likely need Live Scan if your form mentions: ORI number, ATI number, California DOJ, BCIA 8016 / Request for Live Scan Service, or your employer/agency says “Live Scan.” Although keep in mind that employers may also be confused about the differences.
• You likely need FD-258 ink fingerprints if your instructions mention: FD-258, FBI, “submit fingerprint cards,” “mail-in fingerprints,” “ink fingerprints,” or an out-of-state agency that does not accept California Live Scan.
• If your instructions don’t clearly say, look for where your prints must be submitted: CA DOJ/Live Scan (digital) vs mail to an agency (cards). When in doubt, contact the requesting agency — or call us in advance and we’ll walk through them with you and help you obtain clear direction from your agency.

Live Scan vs FD-258: side-by-side comparison

Live Scan (California electronic submission)

• Best for: California-based background checks (CA DOJ), employers/agencies that specifically require Live Scan. These employers/agencies must be located in California and are often required by statute or otherwise to obtain background checks via live scan
• How it’s submitted: Electronic submission through the Live Scan system
• What you get: An ATI number (confirmation/transaction ID) on the bottom your Live Scan form. Your live scan vendor must provide this information to you
• Common clue: You have a BCIA 8016 “Request for Live Scan Service” form or an ORI number. But remember that if you only have an ORI number, that isn’t sufficient and you need the correct Request for Live Scan form

FD-258 ink fingerprint cards (paper cards)

• Best for: FBI background checks, immigration/visas, out-of-state licensing, and any request that requires mailed fingerprint cards
• How it’s submitted: Your cards are mailed to the requesting agency (or to an approved channeler, if applicable). You need to mail the cards, not the agency taking your fingerprints. Note that this differs from electronic submission, where the agency taking your fingerprints also electronically submits your prints
• What you get: One or more completed fingerprint cards (FD-258 or as required)
• Common clue: Instructions say “FD-258,” “ink fingerprints,” or “fingerprint cards”. But keep in mind that some agencies may simply wish to obtain your FBI Background Check, and are not aware that there is a fast and efficient FBI Background Check electronic submission option.

Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

• Assuming Live Scan works for everything: Live Scan is for California DOJ-authorized fingerprint submissions and nothing else. Many federal and out-of-state requests still require ink cards.
• Mailing the wrong thing: If your agency expects an electronic Live Scan submission, mailing ink cards can delay or invalidate your request.
• Using the wrong card type: Many agencies want FD-258, but some require other cards or forms. Always follow the instructions exactly.
• Low-quality prints: Smudging, dry skin, or poor technique can lead to rejections. A professional technician can help reduce this risk.

What to do next

• If you need Live Scan: Bring your Request for Live Scan Service form (BCIA 8016).
• If you need FD-258 fingerprint cards: Bring your instructions and tell us how many cards you need. If you already have cards, bring them — or we can typically provide FD-258 cards if required. Your agency should advise you on how to fill out the information required in the top of the card. You can also read here if you need general guidance on how to fill out the cards. 
• If you’re unsure: Bring whatever you have (email, letter, application checklist) and we’ll help you confirm the correct method before printing. Also some agencies require the agency taking fingerprints to sign an affidavit or other document verifying the applicants identification. Make sure to bring this document if this is the case.

Still unsure? The deciding factor is always the requesting agency’s written instructions — not convenience, speed, or cost.

FAQ

Can I use Live Scan for an FBI background check?

Usually, no. Most FBI background checks require fingerprints submitted electronically to the FBI or on FD-258 cards. Always follow the FBI or requesting agency instructions.

Do other states accept California Live Scan?

Often, no. Many out-of-state agencies do not accept California Live Scan results and instead require ink fingerprint cards. The requesting agency’s instructions are the deciding factor.

How do I know for sure which one I need?

The fastest way is to check your instructions for keywords like ORI / BCIA 8016 / Live Scan (digital) versus FD-258 / FBI or Federal Background Check / mail-in fingerprint cards (ink). If it’s still unclear, contact the requesting agency or bring the instructions and we’ll help you verify.