How to Prepare for Your Live Scan Appointment

Edward
Posted by Edward June 11, 2025

Live Scan fingerprinting is a fast, digital alternative to traditional ink fingerprinting, commonly used for background checks in employment, licensing, volunteering, and legal matters. While the process itself is relatively simple, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring everything goes smoothly on the day of your appointment.

Whether it’s your first time or you just want to avoid delays and rejections, this guide will walk you through exactly what you need to do before, during, and after your Live Scan appointment.

What Is Live Scan?

Before diving into the preparation steps, let’s quickly review what Live Scan fingerprinting is.

Live Scan uses a digital scanner to capture high-quality images of your fingerprints. Those images are then sent electronically to agencies like the Department of Justice (DOJ) or Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), which perform a criminal background check. The requesting agency receives the results—often within just a few days.

Now let’s get into how you can prepare for a smooth appointment.

1. Obtain the Proper Request Form

The first and most important thing you’ll need is a Live Scan Request Form. This form is usually provided by the organization or agency requesting the background check—such as an employer, licensing board, or school district.

This form includes essential details like:

  • The ORI number (Originating Agency Identifier)
  • Type of application (employment, licensing, volunteer, etc.)
  • The agency’s contact information
  • Any billing code (if your employer is covering the cost)
  • Your personal information

🛑 Do not schedule a Live Scan appointment without this form. You will need to bring it with you, completed and signed if required.

2. Bring a Valid Photo ID

To verify your identity, you must bring a valid, government-issued photo ID. Accepted forms usually include:

  • Driver’s license
  • State identification card
  • U.S. passport
  • Military ID
  • Green card (permanent resident card)

Make sure the name on your ID matches the name on your Live Scan request form. Expired IDs are not accepted.

3. Know the Fees and Payment Options

Live Scan pricing includes two components:

  • Rolling fee – This is the fee charged by the Live Scan provider for taking your fingerprints.
  • Government processing fees – These vary depending on which agency (DOJ, FBI, or others) is receiving your fingerprints.

In many cases, the total cost ranges from $50 to $90, but it can be higher depending on the application type.

Check ahead of time whether:

  • The requesting agency is covering the cost (via a billing number or voucher)
  • You are expected to pay out of pocket
  • The Live Scan provider accepts cash, credit, or debit

4. Dress Comfortably and Arrive with Clean Hands

Live Scan fingerprinting involves placing your hands on a glass scanning surface. For best results:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly before your appointment.
  • Avoid lotions or oils, which can interfere with the scan.
  • If you have dry skin, apply a small amount of moisturizer several hours beforehand to reduce the chance of smudging.

Wearing short or loose sleeves may also help you stay comfortable during the process.

5. Double-Check Your Paperwork

Before heading to your appointment, review all your materials:

  • Is your Live Scan request form completely filled out?
  • Do you have the correct ORI number?
  • Do you have your photo ID
  • Do you know who is receiving the results and whether there’s a billing code?

Bringing incomplete or incorrect forms can result in delays or rejected submissions.

6. Know What to Expect During the Appointment

The fingerprinting process typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. Here’s what will happen:

  1. The technician will check your ID and review your request form.
  2. Your fingerprints will be scanned using a digital Live Scan machine.
  3. The technician may take multiple attempts if any prints are unclear.
  4. Once done, you’ll receive a Live Scan transaction receipt as proof of submission.

Hang onto this receipt—it includes tracking information in case you or the requesting agency need to follow up.

7. After Your Appointment

Your fingerprints are electronically sent to the DOJ, FBI, or other designated agency immediately after the scan. From there:

  • Results are typically returned within 1–7 business days, though some checks can take longer depending on the agency.
  • In most cases, you will not receive a copy of the results—they’re sent directly to the organization that requested them.
  • If your fingerprints are rejected (due to poor image quality), the agency may contact you to return for a free resubmission.

Final Thoughts

While Live Scan fingerprinting is a simple process, preparing ahead of time ensures there are no hiccups that could delay your job application, license approval, or volunteer placement.

Here’s a quick checklist to help you feel ready:

✅ Bring a fully completed Live Scan request form
✅ Carry a valid, non-expired photo ID
✅ Confirm how much you’ll be paying and how
✅ Show up with clean, dry hands
✅ Keep your Live Scan receipt for records

Taking a few extra steps before your appointment can save time and prevent unnecessary stress. With the right preparation, your Live Scan appointment will be quick, easy, and one step closer to your next opportunity. We recommend newport beach livescan.