What is the difference between California Live Scan and traditional ink fingerprinting?
The primary difference between California Live Scan and traditional ink fingerprinting lies in how fingerprints are captured and submitted, as well as the processing speed and convenience. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:
1. Capture Method:
- Live Scan:
In Live Scan fingerprinting, fingerprints are captured electronically using a digital scanner. There is no ink involved, and the fingerprints are stored and submitted digitally. - Ink Fingerprinting:
Ink fingerprinting involves applying ink to the fingertips and pressing them onto a physical fingerprint card (such as an FD-258). This traditional method uses ink and paper to capture the fingerprints.
2. Submission Process:
- Live Scan:
Live Scan fingerprints are transmitted electronically to the appropriate agency, such as the California Department of Justice (DOJ) or the FBI, almost immediately after the fingerprints are captured. - Ink Fingerprinting:
Ink fingerprint cards must be physically mailed to the agency requesting the background check, which adds processing time.
3. Processing Time:
- Live Scan:
Because the fingerprints are transmitted electronically, the processing time is typically much faster, often within 1 to 5 days for California DOJ checks. - Ink Fingerprinting:
Ink fingerprinting takes longer to process due to the need for physical mailing and manual scanning by the receiving agency. Processing times can be several days to a few weeks.
4. Accuracy and Quality:
- Live Scan:
Live Scan offers higher accuracy because the system immediately checks the quality of the captured fingerprints. If any fingerprints are unclear, they can be retaken on the spot, reducing the likelihood of rejection. - Ink Fingerprinting:
Ink fingerprinting can sometimes result in smudged or unclear prints, which increases the chance of rejection. Poor-quality prints may require re-submission, delaying the process.
5. Use Cases:
- Live Scan:
Live Scan is required for many California state-regulated professions (e.g., healthcare, education, real estate) and for background checks conducted by the California DOJ or FBI. - Ink Fingerprinting:
Ink fingerprinting is often used when electronic submission is not available or for federal purposes, such as out-of-state background checks, or for agencies that specifically request ink fingerprint cards (e.g., for visa or immigration purposes).
6. Cost:
- Live Scan:
The cost of Live Scan is generally higher than ink fingerprinting because it includes the service fee for capturing the fingerprints electronically and the background check processing fee. - Ink Fingerprinting:
Ink fingerprinting is usually less expensive upfront, but the overall process can take longer and may include additional mailing costs.
In summary, Live Scan is faster, more convenient, and generally more accurate, making it the preferred option for most background checks in California, especially those required by the DOJ. Ink fingerprinting is still used in some cases, particularly for out-of-state or federal background checks.
