Live Scan Fingerprinting: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Live Scan fingerprinting is required for a wide range of professional licenses, employment background checks, and government applications in California. If you have never had it done before, the process can seem confusing. Here is a clear, step-by-step guide to what Live Scan is, who needs it, and what to expect at your appointment.

What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting?

Live Scan is an electronic fingerprinting system that captures your fingerprints digitally and transmits them directly to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and, when required, the FBI. Unlike traditional ink-and-roll fingerprinting, Live Scan is fast, clean, and highly accurate.

The digital prints are used to conduct a criminal background check. Results are sent directly to the requesting agency — your employer, licensing board, or government agency — not to you personally.

Who Needs Live Scan?

Live Scan is required for many professions and purposes in California, including:

• Security guards — Required for BSIS Guard Card applications
• Healthcare workers — Nurses, home health aides, medical assistants, and others
• Teachers and school employees — Required by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
• Real estate agents — Required for DRE license applications
• Childcare workers — Required for all staff at licensed childcare facilities
• Contractors — Required for certain contractor license applications
• Volunteers — Many organizations working with children or vulnerable adults require Live Scan
• Adoptive and foster parents — Required as part of the home study process
• Government employees — Many state and local government positions require Live Scan

What to Bring to Your Live Scan Appointment

Before your appointment, make sure you have:

1. A completed Request for Live Scan Service form (BCIA 8016) — This form is provided by the agency requesting your background check (your employer, licensing board, etc.). It contains the ORI number that tells the DOJ where to send your results. Do not come without this form.

2. A valid government-issued photo ID — A California driver's license, state ID, or passport is required. The name on your ID must match the name on your Live Scan form exactly.

3. Payment — Live Scan fees vary by provider. At Elite Falcons Security, we offer competitive pricing. Call us at (858) 899-6646 for current rates.

What Happens During the Appointment

The Live Scan process is quick and straightforward:

1. Check-in — You present your ID and Live Scan request form. Our technician verifies your information and enters it into the system.

2. Fingerprinting — You place each finger on a glass scanner. The system captures a high-resolution digital image of each fingerprint. The process takes about 5–10 minutes.

3. Quality check — The system checks the quality of each print. If a print is unclear, we will re-scan that finger. People with worn fingerprints (common in manual laborers) may need extra attempts.

4. Submission — Your prints are transmitted electronically to the DOJ and/or FBI. You receive a copy of your completed form with a transaction number for your records.

That is it. The entire appointment typically takes 15–20 minutes.

How Long Do Results Take?

Processing times vary depending on the requesting agency and the type of check required:

• DOJ only: Typically 3–5 business days
• DOJ + FBI: Typically 5–10 business days
• Some agencies: May take up to 2–4 weeks during high-volume periods

Results are sent directly to the requesting agency. You will not receive the results yourself unless the agency shares them with you.

Tips for a Smooth Appointment

• Moisturize your hands the night before if your skin tends to be dry. Dry, cracked skin can make it harder to capture clear prints.
• Avoid heavy manual labor the day before if possible, as it can temporarily wear down fingerprint ridges.
• Double-check your form before you arrive. Make sure the ORI number, your name, and your date of birth are correct. Errors on the form can delay processing.
• Bring the right ID. We cannot process your Live Scan without a valid government-issued photo ID.

Live Scan at Elite Falcons Security — El Cajon

Elite Falcons Security provides professional Live Scan fingerprinting services at our El Cajon location, conveniently located at:

1027 Greenfield Dr., Suite #2, El Cajon, CA 92021

We serve clients from throughout San Diego County, including El Cajon, La Mesa, Santee, Spring Valley, Lemon Grove, and the greater San Diego area.

Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Phone: (858) 899-6646

Walk-ins are welcome. Call ahead to confirm availability or to schedule an appointment.