FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions for Live Scan Applicants

Getting Started & What to Bring

1. What is Live Scan fingerprinting? Live Scan is an inkless, electronic method of capturing fingerprints and submitting them directly to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and/or Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for criminal background checks.
2. Why do I need a Live Scan background check? Live Scan background checks are typically required for employment, professional licensing, certifications, volunteer positions, adoptions, and other regulatory purposes where trust and security are paramount. Your requesting agency will inform you if you need one.
3. What do I need to bring to my Live Scan appointment? You must bring:
   • Your completed “Request for Live Scan Service” form (BCIA 8016) provided by the agency requesting your background check. This form is essential and we cannot proceed without it.
   • A valid, current (unexpired) government-issued photo identification. (See our list of acceptable IDs).
   • Payment for our rolling fee and any applicable state/federal fees.
4. What types of ID are acceptable for Live Scan? Primary forms of ID (must be current and unexpired) include:
   • California Driver’s License or ID Card
   • U.S. Passport or Passport Card
   • Federal Government Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Card
   • Uniformed Services ID Card
   • Department of Defense Common Access Card
   • Permanent Resident Card (I-551)
   • Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
   • Foreign Passport with appropriate immigration document(s) (e.g., Form I-94)
   • For applicants under 16 without primary ID, a birth certificate AND an accompanying parent/guardian with valid ID is required. (Note: If you don’t have a primary ID, two secondary IDs plus two supporting documents may be accepted in limited cases. Please call us to discuss.)
5. Where do I get the “Request for Live Scan Service” form? This form is provided by the agency, employer, or organization requiring your background check. We cannot provide this form for you, as it contains specific information unique to your requesting agency.
6. Do I need an appointment for mobile Live Scan service? Yes, our mobile services are by appointment only to ensure we can meet you at your preferred location and time. Please call us to schedule.
7. How long does the Live Scan process take at my appointment? The actual fingerprinting process usually takes about 10-15 minutes once you arrive and your documents are verified.
8. What should I do to prepare my hands for fingerprinting? Ensure your hands are clean and dry. Avoid applying heavy lotions or oils just before your appointment, as this can affect print quality. If your hands are excessively dry, moisturizing regularly in the days leading up to your appointment can help.

Fees & Payment

9. How much does Live Scan cost? The total cost involves two components:
   • “Rolling Fee”: This is our fee for capturing and submitting your fingerprints.
   • Government Fees: These are fees charged by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and/or the FBI for processing your background check. These fees vary depending on the type of background check required (e.g., DOJ only, DOJ + FBI) and the specific agency.
   • We will quote you the exact total based on your Live Scan form.
10. What forms of payment do you accept? Cash, Credit/Debit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Discover), Money Orders, Company Checks. For all check, debit and credit cards a processing fee applied.
11. Will my employer/agency pay for the Live Scan? Payment arrangements vary. You are responsible for payment at the time of service unless your requesting agency has provided you with a billing number on your Live Scan form, indicating they will cover the government fees. Our rolling fee is typically paid by the applicant unless prior arrangements are made with the requesting agency.

After Your Appointment

12. When will my results be ready? Most DOJ results are processed and sent to the requesting agency within 3-7 business days. FBI results may take slightly longer. However, some applications (especially those requiring manual review, involving older records, or specific agencies) can take up to 30 days or more.
13. How do I check the status of my Live Scan? You can check the status online on the California Department of Justice (DOJ) website. You will need your Automated Transaction Identifier (ATI) number (found at the bottom of your Live Scan form receipt) and your date of birth.
14. Will I receive a copy of my Live Scan results? Generally, no. The results are sent directly and securely to the requesting agency specified on your Live Scan form. Only certain types of Live Scan submissions, such as a “Record Review” for your personal use, will send results directly to you.
15. What is an ATI number? The ATI (Automated Transaction Identifier) is a 10-digit number (e.g., 1LETTER-3NUMBERS-3LETTERS-3NUMBERS) located at the bottom of your Live Scan form receipt. It’s crucial for tracking the status of your submission.
16. What if my fingerprints are rejected due to poor quality? While rare with Live Scan, if your fingerprints are rejected by the DOJ or FBI due to unreadable print quality (e.g., faded prints, cuts, scars), we will re-fingerprint you at no additional rolling fee if the original scan was done by us. You must bring the rejection letter from the DOJ/FBI.
17. What happens if my background check shows criminal history? If your background check reveals criminal history, the requesting agency will receive the information. They are responsible for determining your eligibility based on their specific hiring or licensing criteria. You have the right to challenge incorrect information on your record.
18. Can I use the same Live Scan for multiple applications/agencies? No. Each Live Scan submission is specific to the “ORI” (Originating Agency Identifier) number on your Live Scan form and is sent only to that designated agency. If you need a background check for another agency, you will need a new Live Scan form and a new submission.
19. Can I get a copy of my own criminal history record? Yes, you have the right to request a copy of your own California or FBI criminal history record for review. This requires a specific type of Live Scan called a “Record Review.” Please bring the specific “Record Review” Live Scan form for this purpose.

Our Mobile Service

20. What areas do you serve with your mobile Live Scan? We proudly provide mobile Live Scan services throughout the greater Los Angeles area and its surrounding cities. Please contact us to confirm service availability at your specific location.
21. Is there an extra charge for mobile services? Yes, a mobile service fee applies in addition to the standard rolling fee and government fees, to cover travel and on-site setup. This fee will be quoted to you when you schedule your appointment.
22. What kind of space do you need for a mobile Live Scan appointment? We require a clean, well-lit, and quiet indoor space with access to an electrical outlet and a sturdy table and two chairs.

Other Services

23. Do you offer traditional ink card fingerprinting (FD-258)? Not at this time, we are only providing digitally live scan fingerprinting.
24. Do you offer Notary Public services? Not at this time.