Live Scan is an electronic fingerprinting system that securely captures your fingerprints and submits them directly to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and, if required, the FBI for background checks. It is faster and more accurate than traditional ink fingerprinting.

You will need to bring these items to the Live Scan appointment:

• completed Form BCII 8016 (Request for Live Scan Service)

• social security number

• valid photo identification (see below for DOJ approved documents)

  • California Driver’s License

  • Out-of-state Driver’s License

  • California DMV ID Card

  • Alien Registration/Immigration Green Card

  • Military ID Card

  • Passport

• A valid photo ID (such as a CA driver’s license, state ID, or U.S. passport)

• A completed Request for Live Scan Service form (BCIA 8016) provided by the requesting agency or employer

• Any additional instructions given by your employer or licensing agency

Tip: The name on your ID must exactly match the name on your Live Scan form.tem description

The fingerprint rolling itself usually takes about 10–15 minutes. Results are generally transmitted to the DOJ/FBI within 24 hours. However, processing times vary by agency and can take anywhere from a few days to 30+ days, depending on the background check requirements.

Yes. While California primarily uses Live Scan, some federal agencies, out-of-state employers, or licensing boards may require FD-258 ink fingerprint cards. We provide this service upon request.

Sometimes fingerprints are rejected due to unclear prints (e.g., dry skin, scars, faint ridge detail). If your fingerprints are rejected for quality reasons, the DOJ allows one free re-submission. We will re-roll your prints at no additional charge.

Live Scan fees include:

1. Rolling fee (our service fee for capturing your fingerprints)

2. DOJ/FBI processing fees (set by the government and vary by application type)

Example: For most applicants, DOJ + FBI fees range between $30–$60, plus our rolling fee. The requesting agency will tell you the exact cost.

No. Results are sent directly to the requesting agency, not to the applicant or the Live Scan provider. For status updates, you may check your results online through the DOJ Applicant Background Check Status website or contact your requesting agency.

Yes. All fingerprint submissions are encrypted and transmitted directly to the DOJ/FBI. We do not keep copies of your fingerprints or background check results.

Appointments are recommended to minimize wait times and ensure you bring the correct paperwork.

Yes. We offer mobile Live Scan and ink card fingerprinting for groups, businesses, or individuals who cannot travel to our office. Additional travel fees may apply.