If you’ve never been fingerprinted before—or it’s been a while—you might be unsure of what to expect during a Live Scan appointment. The good news is, the process is quick, straightforward, and non-invasive. Still, knowing what happens step by step can help ease any nerves and make sure you come prepared.
In this post, we’ll walk you through exactly what happens during a Live Scan fingerprinting session so you can arrive confident and leave with one less thing on your to-do list.
What Is Live Scan?
First, a quick refresher: Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting system that electronically captures and submits your fingerprints to the Department of Justice (DOJ), FBI, or other agencies. It’s widely used for background checks required by employers, licensing boards, volunteer organizations, and more.
Unlike traditional ink fingerprinting, Live Scan is clean, fast, and highly accurate. The entire appointment typically takes 10 to 15 minutes, with your results sent electronically to the requesting agency.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During a Live Scan Appointment
1. Check In and Present Your Documents
When you arrive, the technician will ask for two important things:
- A valid photo ID (such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
- Your “Request for Live Scan Service” form, which contains the ORI number, job title or license type, and the agency requesting your background check
The technician will verify your ID and ensure your form is filled out correctly.
Tip: If you don’t have the correct form, your fingerprints may not be sent to the right place. Always confirm with the requesting agency before your appointment.
2. Confirm Your Personal Information
Next, the technician will review the information on your Live Scan form and confirm:
- Your full legal name
- Date of birth
- Social Security Number (if required)
- Driver’s license or ID number
Some forms may require your signature at this stage.
3. Fingerprint Scanning Begins
Now comes the main event—fingerprinting!
Here’s how it works:
- The technician will ask you to place your fingers on a glass scanning surface one by one.
- They’ll gently guide your fingers to ensure proper alignment and full ridge capture.
- Each finger is scanned both individually and in groups, including a full roll for maximum accuracy.
- If any prints are unclear, they may re-scan until the system confirms a good-quality image.
The scanner captures images in real-time, and the technician can see immediately if the prints are readable.
Don’t worry: The process is completely non-invasive, and the scanner is cleaned after every use for hygiene and safety.
4. Transmission of Fingerprints
Once your fingerprints are captured, they are electronically transmitted to the appropriate agencies listed on your form—often the DOJ, FBI, or both.
The agency receiving your prints will then conduct a criminal background check and return the results to the requesting organization (not to you directly).
5. You’ll Receive a Copy of the Form
After scanning, the technician will return your completed and signed Live Scan form—usually with a tracking number called the ATI number (Applicant Tracking Identifier).
Hold onto this copy. You may need it as proof that you completed the process, or to follow up on the status of your background check.
How Long Does It Take?
The appointment itself usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, depending on how quickly your fingerprints are captured. If there’s a line or you’re a walk-in, there might be a short wait, but the process is efficient and designed to get you in and out quickly.
How Soon Will Results Be Available?
Fingerprint processing time varies:
- DOJ-only checks: 1–3 business days
- DOJ + FBI checks: 3–7 business days (or longer depending on volume)
Some agencies may experience occasional delays, but your requesting agency will be the one to notify you if follow-up is needed.
Note: You will not receive the results directly unless you’re the requesting party. Results are sent to the organization listed on your form.
Common Questions
Q: Will my fingerprints be saved in a database?
A: No. Your fingerprints are only used for the background check and are not stored unless legally required.
Q: What if my fingerprints are rejected?
A: Rejections are rare with Live Scan, but if it happens, you may be asked to return for a rescan. We help minimize this risk with high-quality scans and experienced technicians.
Q: Can I bring someone with me?
A: Absolutely—especially if you need assistance or are part of a group.
Final Thoughts
Live Scan fingerprinting is fast, simple, and essential for many jobs and licenses. Knowing what to expect makes the process even smoother. We recommend Newport beach livescan.