Postal Annex 3015

Frequently Asked Questions

• Where to get fingerprints done near me

  Certifix provides a nationwide directory of fingerprinting service providers, simply search for a location on our website using your city, state, or zip code and we will provide you with a location that is near you. Depending on your State, you may find fingerprinting services offered at your local police department or at a private fingerprinting agency.

• How much does a Live Scan cost in California?

  The cost varies by location, however, you will be charged a service fee or a rolling fee which covers the cost of the actual fingerprinting service. Additionally, you may be required to pay a government processing fee which will cover the cost of running your fingerprint-based background check. It’s important to call the location ahead of time to verify all fees and to ensure you have sufficient payment.

• How to get a copy of your personal fingerprint-based record?

  The fastest and easiest way to get a copy of your personal fingerprint record is by submitting an FBI Criminal Report Request. You will need to get your fingerprints rolled onto an FD-258 ink fingerprint card and then simply mail the card along with your FBI Criminal Report Request to our central processing facility in Anaheim, CA. 

• How much does it cost to get my Live Scan or ink fingerprint card processed?

  The cost varies by location, however, you will be charged a service fee or a rolling fee which covers the cost of the actual fingerprinting service. Additionally, you may be required to pay a government processing fee which will cover the cost of running your fingerprint-based background check. It’s important to call the location ahead of time to verify all fees and to ensure you have sufficient payment.

• What do I need to get a Live Scan in California?

  Livescan applicants are to submit their fingerprints electronically to the CA DOJ for the purpose of running a criminal history check. California law requires individuals to be fingerprinted in order to become certified or licensed in most professions. The California Department of Justice only accepts live scan fingerprinting and no longer accepts fingerprints via ink and hard card. Live Scan digital submissions provide the safest and quickest way to submit and process background checks. .The LIVE scan service is an application that allows individuals to submit their fingerprints electronically and receive notification that the background check has been completed within a few hours. This process provides the quickest way to complete a state-required fingerprint check. Live Scan fingerprint submissions are accepted at all offices across the US, Puerto Rico, and Guam. Live scans can be submitted through

• How long does fingerprint clearance take in California?

  How long does it take to complete the FBI fingerprint process? The Live Scan Process takes about 3-7 days. Out-of-state applicants must complete the FD-258 “hard card” manual fingerprint process which can take longer.

  California law requires fingerprints to be taken on all gun purchases. This process can take up to two weeks and costs around $35.

• How do I get a fingerprint clearance in California?

  Fingerprint clearance is a process that every California law enforcement agency can request to verify the identity of an individual. To get fingerprint clearance, there are a few steps that must be taken. The first step is to find out what type of criminal record search you will need. There are three types of criminal record searches: Basic, Enhanced or Expanded.

• How do I get a fingerprint card in California?

  There are two ways to get the fingerprint card service in California:

  1) You can search for a location using your city, state, or zip code, click on “Show All Filters” and then filter by “Ink Card Fingerprinting”, an FD-258 card will be given to you directly at the location.

  2) You can use our online enrollment system, search for a location using your city, state, or zip code, fill out all of the required information, make a payment and you will then be given a QR code. You can present the QR code at the selected location, they will scan your fingerprints and we will then print your fingerprints and information onto an FD-258 card and then mail the card to you via USPS First Class Mail within 5 to 7 business days.

• Does The UPS Store provide the Live Scan fingerprinting?

  Not all UPS Stores offer Live Scan fingerprinting, so you must verify they are listed as available for service on the Certifix website. The UPS Stores can get very busy, so it is recommended that you enroll online to ensure all of your information is entered accurately.

  Once you have enrolled online, you can walk into your selected location and provide them with your QR code or Token. They will enter this information into the Live Scan system and capture your fingerprints.

  Can The UPS Store also perform Ink fingerprinting services?

  Yes, Ink fingerprinting services are also available at select UPS Store locations for $40.

  What documents are required for a Live Scan appointment at The UPS Store?

  The required documents may vary depending on the agency of the fingerprinting. Still, a valid ID document, such as a CA or out-of-state driver’s license or state ID, is typically required for Live Scan fingerprinting.

• What are the steps involved in California Live Scan fingerprinting?

  The steps involved in California Live Scan fingerprinting are as follows:

  • You will provide your information to the Live Scan operator.
  • You will be fingerprinted by the Live Scan operator.
  • The Live Scan operator will scan your fingerprints and transmit them electronically to the DOJ and FBI.
  • You will receive a receipt from the Live Scan operator.

• What are the uses of California Live Scan fingerprinting?

  California Live Scan fingerprinting is used for a variety of purposes, including:

  • Background checks: Live Scan fingerprinting is often used for employment, education, and housing background checks.
  • Security clearances: Live Scan fingerprinting is also used for security clearances, such as those required for government jobs and employment in the transportation industry.
  • Licensing: Live Scan fingerprinting is also required for specific licenses, such as those required for teachers and childcare providers.

• How can I prepare for California Live Scan fingerprinting?

  To prepare for California Live Scan fingerprinting, there are a few important steps to take.

  • First, request a written copy of the Live Scan form from the agency that requires the background check. Fill out all necessary personal information, including the requesting agency’s Originating Agency Identifier (ORI) and its mail code, which can only be provided by the agency.

  • Second, find a convenient Live Scan location online or nearby, using the website of a Live Scan provider like Certifix, which has over 200 locations throughout California.

  • Third, contact the Live Scan location beforehand to confirm their working hours and accepted payment methods, to avoid inconvenience.

  • Finally, bring a primary form of ID, such as a driver’s license or CA ID, to the Live Scan appointment and be prepared to pay the rolling fee plus the DOJ and FBI fees, which vary depending on the agency requesting the Live Scan.

  Remember that Live Scan fingerprinting is necessary any time an individual changes employers or institutions, and that results can generally be expected within 48 hours, with additional research available if needed.

• What is the difference between California Live Scan and ink fingerprinting?

  Live scan fingerprinting is an inkless electronic process that transmits fingerprint data to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for criminal record checks. Ink fingerprinting, on the other hand, requires ink and paper. The subject rolls their fingertips on a pre-printed card for manual fingerprint submission.

  Here are some of the differences between the two:

  Live Scan Fingerprinting:

  • No ink or messy cards required
  • Data is electronically transmitted to DOJ in seconds
  • More accurate and efficient due to its digital format
  • Technician can retake a print repeatedly for best image quality
  • Faster and more cost-effective than ink prints
  • Reduces common issues such as smudging, smearing, and over/under-inking
  • Cleaner and easier for the technician to capture prints digitally
  • Preferred method for many clients due to its speed and ease of use

   

  Ink Fingerprinting:

  • Requires ink and pre-printed cards
  • Prints must be of good quality for DOJ to accept them
  • Can capture both thumbs on the same card
  • Generally lower cost than Live Scan
  • More available locations for ink card fingerprinting
  • No need to worry about technical issues such as smudging, smearing, and over/under-inking

  It’s important to note that Live Scan is the preferred method for many organizations and individuals due to its accuracy, efficiency, and convenience. However, Ink fingerprinting may still be necessary for some applicants whose prints cannot be captured electronically. Ultimately, the choice between the two methods depends on individual needs and circumstances.