How long does the fingerprinting process itself take to complete?
The actual process of fingerprinting is relatively quick and usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Here’s a breakdown of the steps and time involved:
1. Live Scan Fingerprinting:
- Electronic Capture:
Live Scan fingerprinting is done using a digital scanner, and the process of capturing fingerprints for both hands usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes. - Real-Time Feedback:
The technician may check the quality of the fingerprints as they are captured and retake any unclear prints. This ensures high-quality results and minimizes the need for resubmission. - Submission:
Once the fingerprints are captured, they are immediately transmitted electronically to the appropriate agency (e.g., state DOJ, FBI), which is quick and efficient.
2. Ink Fingerprinting (FD-258 Card):
- Ink Application:
Ink fingerprinting, where your fingers are rolled in ink and pressed onto a physical fingerprint card, also takes around 10 to 15 minutes. The technician rolls each finger carefully to ensure complete and clear prints. - Review:
The technician will review the fingerprint card to ensure there are no smudges or incomplete prints. If necessary, they may redo any poor-quality prints.
Additional Time Factors:
- Paperwork:
Filling out any required forms, such as the Request for Live Scan Service form in California, may add a few more minutes to the overall process. - Appointment Wait Times:
If you have an appointment, the wait time will be minimal. If you’re a walk-in at a busy location, you may experience some wait time depending on how many people are ahead of you.
In Summary:
- The fingerprinting process itself typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
- Any wait times or additional paperwork may add to the overall time spent at the fingerprinting facility, but the entire appointment usually doesn’t take longer than 30 minutes to an hour.
For a faster experience, it’s recommended to schedule an appointment ahead of time.
