California Live Scan
Fingerprinting

California Live Scan Fingerprinting

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

Bring your Request for Live Scan Service form to any California location, or enroll online for faster check-in. If you’re applying from outside California, we also offer FD-258 fingerprint card services for mail submissions to the California DOJ.

How It Works

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What is a California Live Scan?

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

• What do I need to bring to my Live Scan appointment or walk-in?

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

• Where do I get the Live Scan Request Form?

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

• How much does a Live Scan cost?

  Each location charges its own rolling fee, which is listed on the Certifix website. Government fees are determined by the ORI number and application type printed on your Live Scan form—typically $32 for DOJ, $17 for FBI, plus any additional agency fees. If your agency has a billing number, the government fees may be waived at the time of fingerprinting, and the agency will be billed directly.

• How long does it take to receive results?

  Most Live Scan results are delivered to the requesting agency within a few days, but delays may occur if prints need additional review. Certifix does not receive or distribute results.

• Can I get a copy of my own results?

  Yes. You must complete the Record Review version of the Live Scan form, which sends results directly to you. All other Live Scan types send results only to the agency.

• How do I check the status of my Live Scan?

  Use your ATI number to check your submission status on the California DOJ website. Processing times vary based on agency requirements and DOJ workload.

• What if my fingerprints are rejected?

  If your prints are rejected, you’ll be notified by your agency or the DOJ. Bring your Original ATI for resubmission. If the rejection was due to operator error, the rolling fee should be waived.

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

  Yes. Out-of-state applicants must submit fingerprints on an FD-258 card and mail it directly to the California DOJ with all required paperwork.

• Do I need an appointment?

  You can enroll online to choose a location, and scheduling options vary by site. Many California Live Scan locations accept walk-ins during posted business hours, while others offer or require appointments that can be booked directly through the Certifix website. All scheduling details are shown before you select a location.

• What forms of ID are accepted?

  California Live Scan requires a current, valid, and unexpired photo ID. Primary acceptable IDs include a state-issued driver’s license or ID, U.S. passport, military ID, government-issued photo ID, foreign passport with immigration documents, permanent resident card, employment authorization card, and Canadian driver’s license. If you do not have a primary ID, you may provide two secondary IDs—such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, tribal ID, school ID, or court-issued documents—plus two supporting documents like a utility bill, voter card, vehicle registration, or paycheck stub.

• Can I bring a printed copy of a digital Live Scan form?

  Yes. A clear printed copy of the form is acceptable as long as all required fields are legible and complete.

• Who receives my background check results?

  For employment, licensing, or volunteer purposes, results are sent directly to the requesting agency. Certifix does not receive or store results. If you are completing a Record Review, the California DOJ will mail your results directly to you at the address provided on your form.

• Is my Live Scan valid for multiple purposes?

  No. Each agency requires its own Live Scan submission and fees. Live Scan results cannot be reused for another purpose.

• Can I get a refund if the DOJ or FBI rejects my prints?

  Government fees are always waived on resubmissions. The rolling fee is also waived as long as you return to the same location that originally processed your Live Scan. If your prints were rejected after being taken by another provider, or if you choose to visit a different location, the rolling fee may apply. Certifix will reprint and resubmit your fingerprints at no cost whenever eligible.

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

  Yes. Agencies may require updated screening due to time limits, compliance rules, or incomplete onboarding.

• What is an ORI number?

  The ORI number tells the DOJ where to send results and which fees apply. It must be correct on your Live Scan form before printing.

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

  You must contact your requesting agency. Certifix cannot determine or recommend the correct form.

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

  Yes. Applicants with valid government-issued identification—including visa holders, DACA recipients, and permanent residents—may complete a Live Scan.

• How do I pay for my Live Scan?

  You may pay directly at the location using the payment methods they accept, or you can enroll and pay online, where you’ll receive a Token that can be used at any Certifix location. Government and rolling fees are collected through the method you choose.