In California, Live Scan fingerprinting has become the standard method for conducting background checks for employment, licensing, volunteer work, and legal matters. This advanced, electronic process has replaced the traditional ink-and-roll method, offering greater speed, accuracy, and security.
At Anshin Mobile Notary & LiveScan, we help individuals, businesses, and organizations across Los Angeles complete their Live Scan fingerprinting quickly and correctly — whether in our office or through our convenient mobile service.
If you’ve been asked to complete a Live Scan, you might be wondering what it involves, how long it takes, and what you need to bring. This guide will walk you step-by-step through the Live Scan process so you can approach your appointment with confidence.
What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting?
Digital vs. Traditional Fingerprinting
Live Scan fingerprinting is a digital method of capturing your fingerprints using an electronic scanner. Unlike traditional ink fingerprinting, there’s no mess, and the prints are transmitted directly to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and/or the FBI for analysis.
Why Live Scan Is Used
Live Scan is required by many state licensing boards, employers, and legal agencies to verify a person’s identity and review their criminal history. It’s more secure than name-based checks and ensures accurate results based on your unique fingerprints.
When Live Scan Fingerprinting Is Required
Employment Background Checks
Many employers in education, healthcare, security, and government require Live Scan before hiring.
Professional Licensing
Careers like real estate, nursing, and notary public licensing in California require a Live Scan background check before approval.
Volunteer Work
Organizations involving children, seniors, or vulnerable individuals often require Live Scan clearance for volunteers.
Legal and Immigration Purposes
Live Scan may be needed for adoption, foster care, name changes, and immigration applications.
You can learn more about our Live Scan fingerprinting services in Los Angeles.
Step-by-Step Live Scan Process
Step 1: Obtain the Live Scan Request Form
Your requesting agency will provide you with a Request for Live Scan Service (BCIA 8016) form. This form contains:
- The requesting agency’s name and address
- The type of background check needed (DOJ, FBI, or both)
- Billing details (if applicable)
- Your personal details
Tip: Ensure the information on the form matches your government-issued ID exactly.
Step 2: Schedule Your Appointment
In-Office Appointments
You can visit our Anshin Mobile Notary & LiveScan office for a quick, affordable session.
Mobile Appointments
If you prefer, we can come to your home, workplace, or event anywhere in Los Angeles County with our mobile Live Scan service, perfect for busy professionals or group appointments.
Call or text (310) 526-0200 to set up your appointment.
Step 3: Bring the Required Documents
At your appointment, you must bring:
- A valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
- Your completed Live Scan Request Form (BCIA 8016)
- Payment for the Live Scan service (fees vary based on DOJ/FBI requirements)
Bring the Right Form
The Request for Live Scan form has to come from your agency; we don’t supply it. If you bring the wrong one, the check can go to the wrong place or be the wrong type, and you may have to do it again. If you’re unsure, call us before your appointment.
Step 4: Fingerprint Capture Process
Identity Verification
Our technician will check your ID and review your form to ensure accuracy.
Scanning Your Prints
We’ll use a Live Scan device to capture high-quality images of your fingerprints electronically. This process usually takes 10–15 minutes.
Data Submission
Your prints are securely transmitted to the DOJ and/or FBI for analysis.
Step 5: Background Check Processing
The DOJ/FBI will compare your fingerprints to their criminal history databases.
- If no record is found, your background check will be marked clear.
- If a record is found, your requesting agency will receive details to determine your eligibility for the position or license.
Step 6: Results Sent to the Requesting Agency
You will not receive your own results unless you specifically request a personal background check from the DOJ.
What You Walk Away With
When your fingerprints are submitted, you leave with your ATI number and your copy of the Request for Live Scan. Keep both. That’s where our part ends: we capture your prints, enter your information and submit it to the DOJ.
We’ll show you how to check the status yourself. Following up with your agency is up to you, because Live Scan operators aren’t allowed to do it. Share your ATI number and form with your agency so you can stay on top of it. If your submission is rejected, for print quality or a mistake in what we entered, we follow up with you to get it resubmitted.
Need your own California record rather than a check for an agency? See See Your Criminal Record.
Live Scan, the Post Office and UPS
The post office doesn’t do Live Scan. It only takes prints for FBI requests you’ve already applied and paid for through the FBI. Only some UPS stores do Live Scan, and they don’t do FBI electronic submissions. The most common complaint we hear about them: “sorry, our machine is down.”
Benefits of Live Scan Fingerprinting
Faster Turnaround
Results are often returned in just a few days compared to weeks with traditional fingerprinting.
Higher Accuracy
Digital scanning reduces the chance of errors or smudges.
Greater Security
Your prints are transmitted directly to the DOJ/FBI without the risk of paper-based loss or tampering.
How Mobile Live Scan Makes the Process Easier
At Anshin Mobile Notary & LiveScan, our mobile service is ideal for:
- Corporate hiring events
- Schools and childcare centers
- Law firms and licensing agencies
- Nonprofits and volunteer organizations
- Busy individuals who can’t travel to an office
Our technician arrives with all necessary equipment and captures your prints on-site, and we transmit them only over a secure connection, never public Wi-Fi or your network.
Learn more about our mobile Live Scan services and Live Scan for groups.
Tips to Avoid Delays or Rejections
Keep Your Hands in Good Condition
Dry, cracked, or injured fingers can cause poor-quality prints. Moisturize before your appointment and avoid cuts or abrasions.
Double-Check Your Form
Ensure your form is filled out completely and matches your ID.
Choose an Experienced Provider
An experienced technician ensures your fingerprints meet DOJ/FBI standards the first time.
Why Choose Anshin Mobile Notary & LiveScan
Certified and Trusted Technicians
We’re fully licensed and trained to capture fingerprints accurately for all types of Live Scan requests.
Flexible Scheduling
Weekday appointments 9–5, plus some Sunday hours.
Mobile and In-Office Options
We make the process convenient, whether you come to us or we come to you.
High Approval Rate
Our attention to detail minimizes the risk of rejected fingerprints.
Call or text (310) 526-0200 to schedule your Live Scan appointment.
FAQs: Understanding the Live Scan Process
How long does a Live Scan appointment take?
A Live Scan fingerprinting appointment usually takes 10–15 minutes. We recommend allowing a bit of extra time for check-in and preparation to ensure a smooth experience.
How soon will the results be ready?
A DOJ-only check often comes back the same day. Checks that involve the FBI, firearms or child-abuse databases take longer. See How Long Does Live Scan Take in California?
Can I use one Live Scan for multiple agencies?
No, each agency requires its own separate Live Scan submission. Even if your fingerprints are already on file, you must complete a new scan for every request.
What if my fingerprints are rejected?
If your fingerprints are rejected due to quality issues, we’ll redo your Live Scan at no additional cost (with proof of official rejection). This ensures your background check can continue without added expense.
Do you accept walk-ins?
No. We’re by appointment only. Call or text to set a time; we do our best to fit in urgent and same-day requests.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the Live Scan fingerprinting process makes your appointment smoother and ensures faster results. From preparing your documents to keeping your hands ready for scanning, each step is important in avoiding delays.
At Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan, we’ve built a reputation in Los Angeles for fast, accurate, and convenient Live Scan services — both in-office and mobile. Whether you’re applying for a job, license, or volunteer position, we make the process easy from start to finish.
Call or text (310) 526-0200 and get your background check completed the right way, the first time.
