California Live Scan
Fingerprinting

Submit your fingerprints electronically to the California DOJ and FBI at any of our certified locations statewide. Walk-ins welcome. No appointment required.

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Fast, Secure Live Scan Services Across California

Certifix provides fast, secure Live Scan fingerprinting for background checks required by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI. Whether for employment, licensing, or certification, our statewide locations make the process simple and convenient.

Bring your completed Request for Live Scan Service form to any California location, or enroll online for faster check-in. If you are outside of California, we also offer FD-258 fingerprint card services for mail submission to the California DOJ.

How It Works

Get Your Live Scan Form

Obtain the correct Request for Live Scan Service form from your employer or requesting agency. This form is required for all California Live Scan submissions.

Walk In or Enroll Online

Bring your completed Live Scan form and valid photo ID to any California location, or enroll online in advance for faster check-in with pre-filled information.

Fingerprinting & Submission

Our certified operator will capture your fingerprints electronically and securely submit them to the California DOJ and/or FBI. If you enrolled online, no payment is required at the location.

Receive Your ATI Number

After submission, you will receive an ATI (Applicant Tracking Identifier) number. You can use this number to check the status of your background check online.

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Who This Is For

California Live Scan fingerprinting is required for many employment, licensing, and certification purposes. This service is commonly used by:

  • California job applicants completing state-required background checks
  • Licensed professionals, including those in real estate, healthcare, nursing, teaching, insurance, childcare, and financial services
  • Volunteers and nonprofit staff working with youth, seniors, vulnerable populations, or sensitive information
  • Out-of-state residents who must complete a California background check for employment or licensing
  • Contractors and vendors seeking approval to work with California agencies, schools, or government programs
  • Anyone required by a California employer, licensing board, or government agency to submit fingerprints to the DOJ and/or FBI

Important Notes

  • A completed Request for Live Scan Service form is required. California DOJ regulations prohibit processing fingerprints without this form.
  • Online enrollment is optional but strongly recommended to speed up your visit, reduce wait times, and minimize data entry errors.
  • All fees are paid during online enrollment. Live Scan locations do not collect payment on-site.
  • Out-of-state applicants must use the FD-258 fingerprint card process, as electronic Live Scan submissions can only be transmitted from within California.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • What is a California Live Scan?

    California Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting process that electronically submits your fingerprints to the California DOJ and, if required, the FBI for a background check. It replaces traditional ink fingerprint cards for most in-state applications.

  • What do I need to bring?

    Bring a valid government-issued photo ID and your completed Request for Live Scan Service form (BCIA 8016 or agency-specific version). Your fingerprints cannot be processed without this form.

  • Where do I get the Live Scan form?

    Your employer, licensing board, school, or requesting agency must provide the correct form. Certifix does not issue Live Scan forms.

  • How much does Live Scan cost?

    You pay a rolling fee (set by each location) plus government fees based on the ORI number and application type on your form. Typical government fees are $32 for DOJ and $17 for FBI, plus any additional agency fees. If your agency provides a billing number, government fees may be billed directly to them.

  • How long do results take?

    Most results are sent to the requesting agency within a few days, but processing times vary. Certifix does not receive or distribute results.

  • Can I get a copy of my results?

    Yes, but only if you complete the Record Review version of the form. All other Live Scan submissions send results directly to the requesting agency.

  • How do I check my Live Scan status?

    Use your ATI number to check your submission status on the California DOJ website.

  • What if my fingerprints are rejected?

    If your prints are rejected, you may resubmit using your Original ATI. Government fees are waived for resubmissions. The rolling fee is typically waived if you return to the same location.

  • Can I complete a California Live Scan outside of California?

    Electronic Live Scan must be done within California. Out-of-state applicants must use the FD-258 fingerprint card process and mail it to the California DOJ.

  • Do I need an appointment?

    Many locations accept walk-ins during business hours. Some offer or require appointments. You can view scheduling options online before selecting a location.

  • What forms of ID are accepted?

    A current, valid photo ID is required. Primary IDs include a driver’s license, state ID, passport, military ID, permanent resident card, or employment authorization card. If you do not have a primary ID, secondary ID options may be accepted.

  • Can I use a printed copy of a digital form?

    Yes, as long as the form is clear, legible, and complete.

  • Who receives my results?

    Results are sent directly to the requesting agency. Certifix does not receive or store background check results. For Record Reviews, the DOJ mails results directly to you.

  • Can I reuse my Live Scan for another purpose?

    No. Each agency requires its own submission and fees.

  • Can I get a refund if my prints are rejected?

    Government fees are waived for eligible resubmissions. The rolling fee is typically waived if you return to the original location.

  • Can an employer require me to redo my Live Scan?

    Yes. Agencies may require updated screening based on their compliance policies.

  • What is an ORI number?

    The ORI number tells the DOJ where to send results and determines the applicable fees. It must be correct on your form before fingerprinting.

  • What if I don’t know which form to use?

    You must contact your requesting agency. Certifix cannot determine the correct form for you.

  • Can non-U.S. citizens complete Live Scan?

    Yes. Applicants with valid government-issued identification may complete Live Scan fingerprinting.

  • How do I pay?

    You can pay at the location (based on accepted payment methods) or enroll and pay online to receive a check-in token. Government and rolling fees are collected through your selected payment method.

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