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What is the background of Live Scan? Back to top

Live Scan is a modern, digital fingerprinting process used for background checks, introduced as an alternative to traditional ink-and-paper fingerprinting. Here’s a brief background:

1. Development of Live Scan:

• Live Scan technology was developed to improve the efficiency and accuracy of fingerprint-based background checks. Unlike traditional fingerprinting, which involved ink and paper, Live Scan uses digital scanning devices to capture fingerprints electronically.
• The captured fingerprints are then submitted electronically to state or federal agencies for background checks, reducing the time required for processing and minimizing errors associated with manual handling.

2. Adoption and Use:

• Live Scan has become the standard method for submitting fingerprints in many states, including California, where it’s widely used for employment, licensing, certifications, and other legal purposes.
• Many states, including Florida and federal agencies like the FBI, also use Live Scan for background checks in sectors such as healthcare, law enforcement, and education.

3. Key Benefits of Live Scan:

• Speed: Fingerprints are transmitted electronically, allowing for faster processing times—often within 24 to 72 hours.
• Accuracy: Digital scans reduce the risk of smudges or unclear fingerprints that could cause delays or rejections.
• Convenience: Live Scan eliminates the need to mail physical fingerprint cards, which could take days or weeks to reach their destination.

4. Nationwide Usage:

• Live Scan is used nationwide for both state and federal background checks, with Certifix providing services across various states, including California, Florida, and for FBI submissions.

Enroll for Live Scan Services:

You can enroll for Live Scan services through Certifix’s online service selection page, whether you’re submitting fingerprints for employment, licensing, or other purposes.

What are the benefits of Live Scan? Back to top

Live Scan offers several advantages over traditional ink fingerprinting, making it the preferred method for background checks in many industries and states. Here are the key benefits:

1. Faster Processing:

• With Live Scan, fingerprints are captured digitally and submitted electronically, allowing background checks to be processed much faster compared to mailing ink fingerprint cards.
• Results are typically available within 24 to 72 hours, depending on the agency’s workload.

2. Increased Accuracy:

• Digital fingerprinting eliminates the common errors associated with traditional ink fingerprinting, such as smudges or incomplete prints. This reduces the likelihood of rejected fingerprints and the need for reprints.
• The electronic capture process also ensures clearer, more precise fingerprint images, leading to better accuracy during the background check process.

3. Convenience:

• No need for mailing: Live Scan fingerprints are transmitted electronically, so there’s no need to mail physical fingerprint cards, saving time and avoiding postal delays.
• Wide availability: Live Scan services are available at many locations across the U.S., and applicants can choose a convenient location to complete their fingerprinting.

4. Enhanced Security:

• The Live Scan process ensures that fingerprints are transmitted securely and directly to the appropriate state or federal agency. This reduces the risks associated with mailing physical fingerprint cards, such as loss or tampering.
• The digital submission process helps maintain data privacy by eliminating unnecessary handling of physical fingerprint cards.

5. Compliance with State and Federal Standards:

• Many states, including California and Florida, require Live Scan for various types of background checks, such as employment, licensing, and certifications.
• Live Scan meets the standards set by state agencies like the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and federal agencies like the FBI.

6. Environmentally Friendly:

• Live Scan is a paperless process, which reduces the need for ink, paper fingerprint cards, and other physical resources, making it a more environmentally friendly option.

Enroll for Live Scan Services:

To take advantage of the benefits of Live Scan, you can enroll online through Certifix’s service selection page for fast and secure fingerprinting services.

What is Live Scan Fingerprinting? Back to top

Live Scan Fingerprinting is a modern, digital method of capturing and submitting fingerprints electronically to state and federal agencies for background checks. It replaces the traditional ink-and-paper method of fingerprinting and offers several advantages in terms of speed, accuracy, and convenience.

Key Features of Live Scan Fingerprinting:

1. Digital Fingerprint Capture:
   • Live Scan uses a digital scanner to capture fingerprints electronically. This eliminates the need for ink and paper, resulting in more accurate fingerprint images and reducing the likelihood of smudges or errors.
2. Electronic Submission:
   • After your fingerprints are captured, they are submitted electronically to the appropriate government agencies, such as the California Department of Justice (DOJ), the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), or the FBI, for processing.
   • This method speeds up the background check process compared to mailing fingerprint cards.
3. Used for Various Background Checks:
   • Live Scan Fingerprinting is required for various purposes, such as:
     • Employment background checks.
     • Professional licenses (e.g., healthcare, education, security).
     • Government clearances.
     • Certifications and volunteer work.
4. Faster Processing Times:
   • Because fingerprints are submitted digitally, background checks are processed much faster than traditional methods, with results often available within 24 to 72 hours.

How It Works:

• You visit a Live Scan provider like Certifix, where a technician will capture your fingerprints using a digital Live Scan machine.
• Your fingerprints are then submitted electronically to the appropriate agency, where they are processed for your background check.

Enroll for Live Scan Services:

You can enroll online for Live Scan fingerprinting services through Certifix. Simply visit the Certifix service selection page to get started.

What is a requesting agency, and how does it relate to fingerprint-based background checks? Back to top

A requesting agency (or Applicant Agency in California) is an organization or entity that requires individuals to complete Live Scan fingerprinting or background checks for various purposes, such as employment, licensing, or certification.

Key Features:

1. ORI Number (Originating Agency Identifier):
   • Requesting agencies are usually assigned an ORI number, which allows them to submit fingerprint-based background check requests to state or federal law enforcement agencies.
   • The FBI and state agencies issue ORI numbers to organizations that qualify under federal or state statutes.
2. State and Federal Agencies:
   • In many states, requesting agencies are typically state agencies, such as schools, healthcare institutions, and law enforcement departments. These agencies can request background checks from their state or federal law enforcement bodies.
3. In California:
   • California allows a wider range of organizations to apply to become an Applicant Agency as long as there is a state statute that mandates the background checks for their organization type. This allows businesses, nonprofits, and other entities to obtain ORI numbers and request fingerprint-based background checks.
4. Federal ORI Numbers:
   • The FBI issues ORI numbers to certain organizations that qualify under federal law, allowing these agencies to submit federal background check requests.

Summary:

Once an agency obtains an ORI number, they can access state and/or federal records for fingerprint-based background checks. The process enables them to meet statutory requirements for hiring, licensing, or certifying individuals.

For more information on Applicant Agencies in California, you can visit the California DOJ website.

How does the Live Scan process work? Back to top

The Live Scan process involves the digital capture and submission of fingerprints for background checks, making it faster and more efficient than traditional ink fingerprinting. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how it works:

1. Obtain the Request for Live Scan Service Form:

• Your requesting agency (or Applicant Agency) will provide you with a Request for Live Scan Service form, which includes key details such as the ORI number (Originating Agency Identifier) that directs where the background check results should be sent.

2. Schedule an Appointment or Walk-in:

• You can schedule an appointment or walk into any authorized Live Scan provider location to complete the process. In some cases, you may need to enroll online first, depending on the state.

3. Capture of Fingerprints:

• At the Live Scan location, a certified technician will use a digital fingerprint scanner to capture your fingerprints electronically. This process takes only a few minutes and does not involve ink or paper.
• The technician will also verify your identity by checking your valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport).

4. Electronic Submission:

• Once your fingerprints are captured, they are submitted electronically to the relevant state or federal agency (e.g., California Department of Justice (DOJ), Florida FDLE, or FBI) for processing.
• Electronic submission ensures faster processing times compared to mailing traditional ink fingerprint cards.

5. Receive Your Transaction Control Number (TCN) or ATI:

• After submission, you will receive a Transaction Control Number (TCN) or, in California, an ATI (Applicant Transaction Identifier), which allows you to track the status of your background check.

6. Background Check Processing:

• The relevant agency processes your background check using the submitted fingerprints. This can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours, though it may take longer depending on the agency’s workload.

7. Receive Results:

• Once your background check is complete, the results are sent to the requesting agency, and they will notify you of any next steps.

Enroll for Live Scan Services:

You can enroll for Live Scan services online through the Certifix service selection page to find a location and start the process.

Where can I get Live Scan services? Back to top

You can get Live Scan fingerprinting services at various authorized locations across the U.S. Here’s how to find a provider:

1. Certifix Locations:

• Certifix offers nationwide Live Scan services. You can easily locate an authorized provider by visiting the Certifix service selection page and entering your zip code or city to find the nearest Live Scan location.

2. Local Law Enforcement Agencies:

• Many police departments and sheriff’s offices provide Live Scan services. Contact your local law enforcement agency to check availability and whether you need to schedule an appointment.

3. Private Live Scan Providers:

• There are numerous private Live Scan providers offering fingerprinting services for employment, licensing, and background checks. These providers are often found in larger cities or urban areas.

4. In California:

• If you’re in California, you can also enroll online and obtain a Token to use at any authorized Live Scan provider in the state. Visit the California Live Scan Enrollment page to start the process.

5. Mobile Live Scan Services:

• Certifix also offers mobile Live Scan services for businesses or organizations that need group fingerprinting. You can request mobile services by visiting Certifix Mobile Live Scan.

Summary:

You can find a Live Scan provider near you by visiting the Certifix service selection page or contacting local law enforcement or private providers in your area.

• For California Live Scan services, enroll online through Certifix California Live Scan Enrollment.

Who needs Live Scan fingerprinting? Back to top

Live Scan fingerprinting is required by a wide range of individuals and professionals who need to undergo background checks for legal, employment, or licensing purposes. Here’s a look at who typically needs Live Scan:

1. Employment Background Checks:

• Individuals applying for jobs in sectors that require high levels of trust or access to sensitive information often need Live Scan fingerprinting. This includes:
  • Healthcare professionals (doctors, nurses, caregivers).
  • Teachers and school employees.
  • Law enforcement personnel (police officers, security guards).
  • Government employees.

2. Professional Licensing:

• Many professional licenses require Live Scan fingerprinting as part of the application process. Common fields include:
  • Real estate agents.
  • Contractors.
  • Attorneys.
  • Foster parents.
  • Childcare providers.

3. Volunteer Work:

• Individuals working in volunteer positions, particularly those involving vulnerable populations (e.g., children, elderly, or disabled), are often required to complete a Live Scan background check.

4. Certifications and Permits:

• Certain certifications, permits, or applications may require fingerprinting. Examples include:
  • Firearm permits.
  • Notary public applications.
  • Adoptions and foster care approvals.

5. Government Clearances:

• Applicants seeking government jobs or clearances at local, state, or federal levels may need to undergo Live Scan fingerprinting as part of the security clearance process.

6. Immigration and Citizenship Applications:

• Some immigration or citizenship applications require fingerprinting to verify identity and conduct a criminal background check.

Enroll for Live Scan Services:

If you need Live Scan for employment, licensing, or other purposes, you can enroll online through Certifix’s service selection page to get started.

Why do I need a Live Scan fingerprinting? Back to top

You may need Live Scan fingerprinting for several reasons, depending on the requirements of your employer, licensing board, or government agency. Live Scan is typically used for conducting background checks to ensure the safety and integrity of certain jobs and responsibilities. Here are the main reasons why Live Scan is required:

1. Employment Background Checks:

• Many jobs, especially in sensitive sectors such as healthcare, education, law enforcement, and government, require a thorough background check, including fingerprinting. Live Scan helps confirm the identity of job applicants and checks for any criminal history that could disqualify them from certain roles.

2. Professional Licensing:

• If you’re applying for a professional license, such as to become a real estate agent, contractor, or healthcare professional, Live Scan is often required as part of the licensing process to verify your background and ensure you meet regulatory standards.

3. Volunteer Work:

• Many organizations require background checks for individuals working with vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, or disabled individuals. Live Scan is often mandated to ensure the safety of these groups.

4. Government Clearances:

• If you are applying for a job or position that requires government clearance, Live Scan fingerprinting is a standard part of the security clearance process to check for any disqualifying criminal records.

5. Certifications and Permits:

• You may need a Live Scan for certain certifications or permits, such as a firearm permit, notary public certification, or for adoptions and foster care.

6. Compliance with Legal Requirements:

• Some laws and regulations mandate that individuals in specific roles or professions undergo fingerprint-based background checks. This ensures compliance with state or federal statutes that aim to protect the public.

Summary:

Live Scan ensures a thorough and accurate background check, helping agencies, employers, and licensing boards verify your identity and check for any criminal history that may affect your eligibility for certain jobs, licenses, or volunteer positions.

If you need Live Scan, you can enroll online through Certifix’s service selection page to get started.

Is Live Scan the same as a background check? Back to top

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.

What is Live Scan, and why is it used for background checks? Back to top

Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting system used to capture and electronically submit fingerprints to government agencies for background checks. It replaces the traditional ink-and-paper method, offering a faster, more accurate, and more secure way to submit fingerprints for various purposes, such as employment, licensing, and certifications.

Key Features of Live Scan:

1. Digital Fingerprinting:
   • Live Scan uses electronic fingerprint scanners to capture your fingerprints digitally, without the need for ink or paper.
2. Electronic Submission:
   • Once your fingerprints are captured, they are submitted electronically to state and/or federal agencies, such as the California Department of Justice (DOJ), Florida FDLE, or the FBI.
   • This electronic submission speeds up the background check process and eliminates the need to mail physical fingerprint cards.
3. Faster Results:
   • Live Scan results are typically processed much faster than traditional methods, with results often available within 24 to 72 hours.

Who Needs Live Scan?

• Employers, licensing agencies, and government organizations use Live Scan to conduct background checks on individuals applying for jobs, licenses, permits, and certifications.

How Does It Work?

• You visit an authorized Live Scan provider like Certifix, where your fingerprints are digitally captured.
• Your fingerprints are then submitted electronically to the appropriate agency for processing, and your background check is conducted using your fingerprint data.

Enroll for Live Scan Services:

You can enroll online for Live Scan services through Certifix’s service selection page to find a location and begin the process.