What is Live Scan Fingerprinting?

Live Scan is an inkless electronic fingerprinting captured at a computer (digitizing). Applicant fingerprints are electronically transmitted to the Department of Justice (DOJ) in order to complete a criminal background check. Live Scan technology replaces the slow and “archaic” fingerprinting process of recording fingerprint patterns through a rolling process using ink and paper. However, in many states actual ink fingerprinting is still required.
Digitized fingerprint images enables Live Scan service providers such as California Live Scan Centers to electronically transmit fingerprints to the DOJ in a matter of just a few seconds; thus eliminating the need of sending hard copies through snail mail. And if the requested, the DOJ will forward Live Scan data to the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI).

How long will the Live Scan take?

The Live Scan process will take approximately 20 minutes and requires and appointment. You can make an appointment with LA Fingerprints, here: (Insert Appointment Booking Link)

What do I need to bring?

TO BE LIVE SCAN FINGERPRINTED YOU WILL NEED TO PROVIDE:

  1. Completed Request for Live Scan form for your specific need
  2. Form of payment
  3. Current valid photo ID

EXAMPLES OF ACCEPTABLE IDENTIFICATION ARE:

  • California Driver’s License
  • California DMV identification Card
  • Valid out-of-state Driver’s License
  • Military ID
  • Passport
  • Resident Alien Card
  • Immigration Card
  • Green Card

What is a “Request for Live Scan Service” Form?

It is a government form, identified at the top with “REQUEST FOR LIVE SCAN SERVICE-Applicant Submission” or with the code “BCII 8016”, found at the bottom left-hand corner. This form must be completed prior to being electronically fingerprinted. If you do not have one, contact the agency or person who is requesting you to obtain a Live Scan. We have provided a comprehensive list for you of links where you can find most Live Scan Request Forms here.

How Long Does It Take For Results?

The California Department of Justice (DOJ) Live Scan Fingerprinting processing time usually comes back within 72 hours. However some delays do occur, for any significant delay the DOJ will contact the requesting agency.

The Live Scan results are either emailed or sent to the requesting agency listed on the Request for Live Scan Service form. Once the process has been completed at one of our California Live Scan Centers, please direct all inquiries to the agency handling your employment or licensing.

How to check your Live Scan results?

Checking your Live Scan results is simple, just call the Department of Justice (DOJ) at (916) 227-4557. Be sure to have your birth date and Automated Transaction Identifier (ATI) number available. The ATI number is at the bottom of the Applicant Live Scan Request form.

Once the call is made, you will be prompted to enter the ATI number; for the letters, enter the corresponding numbers. For your birth date, enter the two digit month, the two digit day, and the four digit year (MM/DD/YYYY).

The ATI number always appears in the following sequence: 1 LETTER; 3 NUMBERS; 3 LETTERS and 3 NUMBERS.

How do I get a copy of my personal criminal history "Record Review"?

Individuals have the right to request a copy of their own criminal history record from the DOJ to review the information for accuracy and completeness.

DOJ PERSONAL RECORD REVIEW INSTRUCTIONS:

A written request must first be submitted to the DOJ.

Print and prepare the “Application to Obtain Copy of State Summary Criminal History Record” form.

Print a prepare the “Request for Live Scan Service Form” for Record Review.

Requests from third parties are not permitted.

Who needs Live Scan anyway?

All types of individuals are required by the state and federal governments to get Live Scan, including (but not limited to): realtors, licensed DMV professionals, notaries, foster parents, teachers, appraisers, caregivers, stockbrokers, contractors, nurses, doctors, surgeons, security guards, volunteers, and lawyers.

Is Live Scan the same as a background check?

Live Scan is a form of background check required by the state and federal governments; typically for state-issued licenses, employment, or volunteer work. It is also often required for (but not limited to) people who work or volunteer in positions of trust for populations such as vulnerable citizenry, the elderly, dependent adults and children.

The government will check submitted fingerprints against its database to retrieve an individual’s criminal record.

What are the benefits of Live Scan?

The Live Scan process helps in avoiding many of the problems associated with ink prints, such as smudging, smearing, and over or under inking. A major benefit of Live Scan is that your fingerprints are transmitted directly to the Department of Justice. The Department of Justice conducts a criminal background check, based on your fingerprints, results are sent within 72 hours to your employer or licensing agency.

How Can I set up an appointment for Live Scan, FBI Ink Cards or Notary Services?

We are happy to take appointments anytime during regular business hours. To schedule an appointment, it only takes a minute. Click here to pick the best day and time for you.