Fingerprint Services: FBI Ink Card “How To Process”

Explore the importance of ink card fingerprinting for travel nurses. Learn about its role in licensing, where to get it done, and how to avoid delays.

In the wake of past tragic events such as the 9/11 terrorist attacks, potential employees are increasingly are now being required to receive through criminal background checks by employers. As part of this process, employers are mandating candidates get fingerprinted. There are choices regarding where and how the fingerprints are to be taken. Basically, the final decision comes down to government regulations, associated cost, availability time frame, and the location of the certified and approved fingerprinting facility/technician.

The manual process of capturing fingerprints (non-livescan) requires ink and a fingerprint card (in most cases the FBI’s FD-258 Ink Card). The fingerprinting process involves capturing the image of the ridge formation on the pads of an applicant’s fingers. Unless provided the requesting agency, most applicants are sent out to obtain their own FD-258 Ink Card. In most cases this is not a quick and simple task. Try calling the fingerprinting facility ahead of time to ensure that have the correct cards and are qualified to perform the ink fingerprinting or contact us today at (888) 448-0848.

Our customers are always pleased to learn that the required FBI’s FD-258 Ink Fingerprint Cards are available at most of our California Live Scan Fingerprinting Centers at no additional cost.

Furthermore, when making initial contact with the fingerprinting facility be sure to inquire on the following:

  • Hours of operations?
  • Are walk-ins welcomed and/or are appointments required? Don’t be shy to ask what is the typical waiting period and process times. In most cases getting your fingerprints done should not take more than 10-15 minutes per ink card.
  • Acceptable form of payment?
  • Acceptable form of identification?

Remember that each fingerprinting facility has different requirements. Work with the those that can schedule you for an appointment as soon as possible, time is usually of the essence when it comes to getting that next job and/or certification. You will also be on good terms with the HR department by making their job easier.

Oh, don’t forget to make sure your hands are clean before arrival, but avoid using soap and/or lotion before you are fingerprinted. Certain soaps and lotion can harm the quality of the prints. Just don’t get offended it the Fingerprint Roller Technicians hands you a “Baby Wipe” for your hands upon completion.   🙂