You have a new job offer, a professional license application, or plans to move abroad. Somewhere in the instructions, you see the words “fingerprints required.”
You search for fingerprinting near you and find several options: Live Scan, FBI fingerprinting, and fingerprint cards. They sound similar but booking the wrong service can leave you with a submission that does not meet the requesting organization’s requirements.
Before scheduling Live Scan in Encino, take a moment to check what you have been asked to provide. The right starting point is the request itself.
First, Understand What the Terms Mean
Live Scan describes a way to capture fingerprints electronically. An FBI background check describes a type of records check. A fingerprint card is a physical format for recording and submitting fingerprints.
That means these terms are not always separate alternatives. Electronic fingerprint collection can be part of different submission processes, including a request involving FBI records.
What matters is where your fingerprints are being sent, why they are being submitted, and who needs the results.
When You May Need California Live Scan
California employers, licensing bodies, and other authorized organizations may request fingerprint-based background checks through the California Department of Justice. Depending on the authorized request, the check may include California records alone or both California and FBI records.
For an agency-requested submission, bring the correct Request for Live Scan Service form supplied by the requesting organization. Its agency information tells the operator how to route the submission.
Example: You are beginning a position with an organization that gives you a Live Scan form. Follow that organization’s process rather than ordering a personal FBI report instead.
If you are unsure which form to use, ask the requesting organization before your appointment. A blank form found online may not contain the information needed for your specific request.
When You May Need an FBI Identity History Summary
An FBI Identity History Summary is a fingerprint-based report of certain information maintained by the FBI. People may be asked for this type of report when preparing documents for an overseas process.
However, a personal Identity History Summary is not automatically a substitute for an employment or licensing background check in the United States. The FBI explains that those requests may need to go through a state identification bureau, requesting federal agency, or another authorized channel.
Example: An overseas authority asks specifically for an FBI background check. Confirm the exact report, submission method, and document requirements before choosing a fingerprinting service.
When searching for FBI fingerprinting in Los Angeles, share the recipient’s instructions with the provider so you can discuss the appropriate service.
What Are FD-258 Fingerprint Cards?
Some requesting agencies use physical fingerprint cards instead of an electronic submission. The FD-258 is one commonly requested card format.
If your instructions call for a card, confirm the required format, number of cards, and mailing procedure. Having fingerprints captured does not necessarily mean the request has been submitted the recipient may require you or another organization to mail the completed cards with additional paperwork.
Bring any agency-specific instructions to the appointment. Avoid assuming that every fingerprint card is accepted for every purpose.
Three Mistakes to Avoid Before Booking
- Choosing Based Only on Speed
A quick appointment is useful only if it fulfills the request. Tell the provider what the fingerprinting is for before asking how soon it can be completed.
- Assuming “DOJ and FBI” Means You Receive a Personal FBI Report
An agency-requested California background check can include an FBI records check. That does not make it the same service as ordering your own FBI Identity History Summary. Confirm who will receive the results.
- Forgetting the Steps After the Background Check
For overseas use, obtaining the report may be only one step. The receiving authority may also require an apostille or translation.
If an apostille is needed for an FBI Identity History Summary, it is obtained through the U.S. Department of State. The FBI does not issue the apostille itself. Ask about these requirements before setting your document deadline.
What to Bring to Your Fingerprinting Appointment
Before arriving, confirm the requirements for your service. Prepare:
- A valid photo ID accepted for the submission.
- The requesting organization’s form or written instructions.
- Any required fingerprint cards or card specifications.
- Your deadline and the destination country, if applicable.
- An accepted payment method.
For California agency-requested Live Scan, expired identification is not accepted. Check your ID before making the trip.
Does a Fast Appointment Mean Fast Results?
Fingerprint collection and background-check processing are different stages. Completing the appointment does not guarantee that the receiving agency will have results immediately.
Processing can be affected by fingerprint quality, record review, or submission issues. Allow time between your appointment and the deadline, and ask how to follow up on your particular request.
Book Fingerprinting Services in Encino
A to Z Documents offers Live Scan and FBI fingerprinting services in Encino, along with apostille assistance and certified translation services for related document needs.
Before booking, tell us what the fingerprints are for and which organization requested them. Have your form or instructions available so we can discuss the service, appointment requirements, and applicable fees.
Ready to schedule? Contact A to Z Documents and bring your fingerprinting request one step closer to completion.
