Is Live Scan the same as a background check?
No, Live Scan and a background check are not the same, but they are closely related. Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting method used to collect and submit your fingerprints electronically, which are then used as part of the background check process.
How Live Scan and Background Checks Work Together:
- Live Scan (Fingerprinting):
- Live Scan is the process of capturing your fingerprints digitally using a scanner. These fingerprints are then submitted electronically to state or federal agencies, such as the California Department of Justice (DOJ) or the FBI, for processing.
- Background Check:
- A background check is the review of your criminal history and other relevant records by government agencies or employers. Fingerprints collected through Live Scan are used to match against law enforcement databases to verify if you have a criminal record or other disqualifying history.
Key Differences:
- Live Scan is the method of fingerprinting, while the background check is the actual investigation of your criminal and personal history based on the fingerprints and other identifying information.
- Live Scan provides fingerprints that are used to conduct the background check, but the background check itself includes looking into various databases and records for your criminal history.
Summary:
Live Scan is a fingerprinting method that supports the background check process, but the background check is a broader review of your history. Both are often required for jobs, licenses, or certifications.
You can enroll for Live Scan services through the Certifix service selection page.
