How quickly do Live Scan fingerprint results come back?
The processing time for Live Scan fingerprinting results can vary depending on several factors, including the agency requesting the background check and the volume of submissions being processed. Here is a general timeline for when you can expect Live Scan results:
1. California Department of Justice (DOJ):
- For Live Scan background checks processed by the California DOJ, results are typically returned within 1 to 7 days. In most cases, results are received by the requesting agency in 24 to 72 hours if there are no issues or delays.
- However, processing times can extend up to two weeks in some cases, particularly if the submission volume is high or if there are complications with the fingerprint quality.
2. FBI Background Check:
- If a federal background check through the FBI is required (in addition to the state check), results generally take 3 to 5 days to process after the fingerprints are submitted.
- FBI results are often processed simultaneously with the state background check, but in rare cases, the FBI check might take longer.
3. Michigan State Police (MSP):
- In Michigan, Live Scan fingerprints submitted to the Michigan State Police (MSP) are typically processed within 1 to 5 days for state background checks.
- If an FBI check is included, this can add a few additional days to the process.
4. Factors That May Delay Results:
- High Submission Volume: During periods of high demand (e.g., peak hiring seasons), it may take longer for results to be processed.
- Poor Fingerprint Quality: If the fingerprints captured during Live Scan are of poor quality, they may be rejected, requiring a resubmission and causing delays.
- Criminal History: If the applicant has an extensive or complicated criminal history, the processing time might take longer due to the additional review needed.
5. Where Results Are Sent:
- Live Scan results are sent directly to the requesting agency (e.g., licensing boards, employers, or government entities) and are not provided directly to the individual being fingerprinted. The requesting agency will notify you once the background check has been completed and received.
Summary of Expected Processing Times:
- California DOJ: Typically within 1 to 7 days.
- FBI: Typically within 3 to 5 days.
- Michigan State Police: Typically within 1 to 5 days.
If you need your results by a certain deadline, it’s a good idea to schedule your Live Scan fingerprinting well in advance to account for potential processing delays. You can also track your submission using the ATI number (Automated Transaction Identifier) provided by the Live Scan technician.
