Key Facts
- Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting process that speeds up background checks by transmitting data electronically to the DOJ and FBI.
- Processing times vary: typically 48 hours for DOJ-only checks, 3-7 days for DOJ + FBI, and 1-2 weeks for additional agencies.
- Factors affecting processing include agency workload, fingerprint quality, background check requirements, and potential manual reviews.
- To expedite results, schedule early, moisturize hands, double-check forms, and keep your ATI number for status checks.
- Working with experienced providers like Anshin Mobile Notary ensures accurate captures and timely submissions, minimizing delays.
When you need a background check for employment, licensing, volunteering, or immigration purposes, one of the most common questions is: “How long will my Live Scan fingerprints take to process?” While the actual fingerprinting appointment is quick, the processing time can vary depending on several factors.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we’ve helped countless individuals and organizations through the Live Scan process, so we know exactly what affects turnaround times — and how you can get your results as quickly as possible.
Understanding Live Scan Fingerprinting
What Is Live Scan?
Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting process used in California and other states to transmit fingerprint data electronically to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and, if required, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This eliminates the need for ink-and-paper fingerprint cards and speeds up background checks.
Unlike traditional fingerprinting, Live Scan sends your fingerprints instantly to the agencies for analysis, which is why it’s considered faster and more secure.
How the Live Scan Process Works
Step 1: Scheduling Your Appointment
You’ll first need to find a certified Live Scan provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan. Many agencies require you to bring a Request for Live Scan Service form that includes the ORI code and other details.
We make scheduling easy — you can book an appointment online or request our mobile Live Scan service so we can come to your home, office, or event.
Step 2: Fingerprint Capture
At your appointment, your fingerprints are captured electronically using a Live Scan machine. This takes just a few minutes. We ensure clear, high-quality prints to avoid rejection delays.
Step 3: Submission to DOJ and FBI
Your prints are securely transmitted to the DOJ (and FBI if required). From there, the agencies run your fingerprints against their databases to check for any criminal history.
How Long Does Live Scan Processing Take?
Typical Turnaround Times
The time it takes for Live Scan results to be processed can vary, but here’s what you can generally expect:
- California DOJ only: Usually within 48 hours.
- DOJ + FBI: Often 3–7 business days.
- DOJ + FBI + Other Agencies (e.g., Child Care Licensing, Immigration): Can take 1–2 weeks or longer.
If there are no issues with your fingerprints and no criminal history is found, results are often sent back very quickly.
Factors That Affect Live Scan Processing Times
1. Agency Workload
High-demand periods (such as teacher hiring seasons or law enforcement recruitment drives) can lead to delays.
2. Accuracy of Fingerprints
Poor-quality prints due to dry skin, cuts, or improper capturing can cause rejections. At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we use high-quality equipment and techniques to minimize this risk.
3. Background Check Requirements
Some agencies require extra checks beyond DOJ and FBI, which can extend processing time.
4. Manual Review Needs
If your fingerprints match records in the database, your case may be flagged for manual review, adding days or weeks.
5. Delays in Receiving Results
Even if the DOJ processes your results quickly, the requesting agency may take longer to review and act on them.
How to Check the Status of Your Live Scan
You can check your Live Scan status through the DOJ Applicant Status Check website. You’ll need your ATI number (found on your Live Scan receipt) and your date of birth.
This tool shows when your fingerprints were received, when they were processed, and when the results were sent to the requesting agency.
How Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan Speeds Up the Process
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we help our clients avoid unnecessary delays by:
Ensuring Proper Form Completion
Incorrect ORI codes or missing information on your form can cause processing stalls. We verify all forms before submission.
Capturing High-Quality Fingerprints
Our advanced Live Scan machines produce clear, accurate fingerprints, reducing the risk of rejection.
Offering Mobile Services
We bring our Live Scan equipment to you — saving you time and ensuring quick submission.
Interlinking to Relevant Services
If you’re scheduling a Live Scan for immigration purposes, read our detailed guide on Live Scan Fingerprinting for Immigration Purposes.
If you’re a business or organization looking to process multiple employees or volunteers, explore our Mobile Fingerprinting Services for on-site convenience.
Tips to Get Your Live Scan Results Faster
Schedule Early
If you have a deadline, don’t wait until the last minute. Live Scan results may be quick, but delays can happen.
Moisturize Your Hands Before the Appointment
Dry skin can cause poor fingerprint quality. Applying lotion beforehand can help.
Double-Check Your Form
Verify your ORI code, job title, and agency details are correct before arriving.
Keep Your ATI Number
This allows you to check your status and ensure your prints were submitted.
Common Reasons for Live Scan Delays
Missing or Incorrect Information
Any mismatch between your form and the DOJ’s requirements will halt processing.
Resubmissions Due to Poor Prints
If your fingerprints are unreadable, you’ll need to redo them — adding days to your timeline.
Agency Processing Time
Some agencies take longer to review results even after they receive them.
Final Thoughts
While Live Scan fingerprint processing is generally quick — often just a few days — there are factors that can delay results. Working with an experienced provider like Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan ensures your fingerprints are captured accurately, forms are filled out correctly, and submissions are made without delay.
Whether you need Live Scan for a new job, volunteer role, licensing, or immigration, we’re here to make the process as smooth and fast as possible.
FAQs About Live Scan Processing Times
- How fast can Live Scan results come back?
Live Scan fingerprint results for both the California DOJ and FBI are typically processed within 24–48 hours. However, delays can occur if your background check queries special databases—like the DOJ Firearms database—or if either department requires additional information. Most applicants receive results in two business days, but special circumstances may extend this timeframe. - Can I get same-day Live Scan results?
In most cases, you cannot receive same-day Live Scan results directly—results are sent to the agency that requested your fingerprints. However, there are exceptions: if you are conducting a personal “Record Review” to see your criminal record, you can request a copy of your Live Scan results for yourself.
To learn how to order your own record and see what’s on your background check, visit Anshin’s Live Scan Record Review page. - What should I do if my Live Scan is taking too long?
Check your Live Scan status at the DOJ Applicant Status Check website using your ATI number and date of birth. If over two weeks have passed, contact the agency that requested your fingerprints for updates. - Can poor fingerprints delay the process?
Yes, low-quality or smudged fingerprints can trigger rejections and require resubmission—adding days to your timeline. To avoid delays, moisturize your hands before your appointment and ensure all prints are captured clearly. - How can Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan help me get results faster?
We optimize for speed by using advanced fingerprinting equipment to ensure high-quality prints, double-checking all form details (like ORI codes), and offering mobile Live Scan services for immediate electronic submission. This minimizes errors and common delays.
