Can anyone obtain an Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card?
Not everyone is eligible to obtain an Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card. To qualify, applicants must pass a state and federal background check conducted by the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). The clearance card is issued to individuals in certain professions or roles that require background checks, such as:
-
- Teachers
- Childcare workers
- Healthcare professionals
- Foster parents
- Real estate agents
- Nannies
- Volunteers in certain organizations
- Individuals working with vulnerable populations (e.g., children, the elderly, or disabled individuals)
To be eligible for a Fingerprint Clearance Card, applicants must not have been convicted of certain disqualifying offenses. These offenses are outlined in Arizona Revised Statutes §41-1758.03 and include serious crimes such as felonies, violent crimes, sexual offenses, child abuse, and other related offenses. If someone has been convicted of a disqualifying offense, they may not be able to obtain a card unless they are granted a good cause exception through the Arizona Board of Fingerprinting.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply for a Fingerprint Clearance Card through the Arizona DPS, submit your fingerprints, and pay the necessary fees. The application process usually takes 6 to 8 weeks, after which you’ll receive your card if approved.
