What is Live Scan Fingerprinting?
Live Scan is an ink-less electronic fingerprinting (digitizing) process that is accomplished by high-tech computer based devices. Live Scan Applicant(s) fingerprints are electronically transmitted to the Department of Justice (DOJ), along with information entered from the Request for Live Scan Service form, in order to complete a criminal background check.
Digitizing the fingerprints enables the electronic transfer of the fingerprint image data along with personal descriptor information to computers at the DOJ in a matter of seconds, instead of the prolong days required to send hard copy fingerprint cards through the mail. DOJ’s goal is to process 95% of the digitized fingerprints within 3 days.
The Background & The “Why” of Live Scan Fingerprinting
As a result of legislation passed in late 1997, the DOJ has developed an automated background check process that requires digitized fingerprints (“Live Scan”). Beginning January 1, 2000, DOJ requested that fingerprints be submitted by Live Scan rather than hard copy fingerprint cards.
Live Scan technology replaces the slow and “archaic” fingerprinting process of recording fingerprint patterns through a rolling process using ink and paper. In many states actual ink fingerprinting is still required. Digitized fingerprint images enables Live Scan service providers such as California Live Scan Centers to electronically transmit fingerprints to the DOJ in a matter of just a few seconds; thus eliminating the need of sending hard copies through snail mail. And if the requested, the DOJ will forward Live Scan data to the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI).
Finally, the DOJ sends a response directly to the (applicants) requesting agency for the Live Scan within seven (7) working days providing a much faster response as opposed to the inked fingerprint cards. Further information on Live Scan Fingerprinting can be obtained by contacting California Live Scan Fingerprinting Centers at (888) 448-0848, or visiting The California Department of Justice web site at http://caag.state.ca.us.
