Many employers are requiring that prospective employees obtain a background check prior to an offer of employment or as a condition of employment. This is especially true of school districts, churches, youth clubs, daycare centers, foster families and prospective adoption applicants. The background check process begins with the applicant obtaining a live scan of their fingerprints. The applicant completes the BCIA 8016, Request for Live Scan Service form and takes the form to a Certified Fingerprint Roller, along with an acceptable form of ID, and the Roller inputs the applicant’s personal information electronically captures the applicants’ fingerprints and electronically transmits the prints to DOJ or FBI. Once DOJ or FBI receives the information the fingerprints are matched against all fingerprints in the database to check for matches. If there are no matches then the applicant will receive notice usually within 48 to 72 hrs. If a match is found in the database then the report is reviewed by a DOJ or FBI technician and the applicant receives a delay notice.
Acceptable forms of ID:
- State-issued driver’s license
- US passport or passport card
- Foreign passport with appropriate Immigration Document)s) Form I-94
- Federal Government Personal Identity Verification Card (PIV)
- Uniformed Services Identification Card
- Department of Defense Common Access Card
- USCIS – Permanent Resident Card (I-551)
- USCIS – Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
- Federal, state, or local government agency ID card with photograph
Fees
Rolling fee $25 per person with a $10 travel fee (if you are within 15 mi) plus the predetermined agency fee (typically $32 – 49, but may be more).
Groups of 4 or more: $20 per person plus a $10 travel fee and predetermined agency fee (typically $32 – 49, but may be more).
Common Questions
Where do I get a Live Scan Form?
You will receive the Live Scan form from the agency that is requesting you get a Live Scan of your fingerprints. The Live Scan form must have ORI#/Type/Title completed by the agency giving you the form. If you need a blank form you can get one here; Live Scan Request Form (BCIA 8016) – For General Use (https://oag.ca.gov/sites/all/files/agweb/pdfs/fingerprints/forms/BCIA_8016.pdf)
What happens if my fingerprints match prints in the DOJ or FBI Database?
If there is a match in the fingerprint database you can request a copy of your Criminal History to review for accuracies and completeness at https://oag.ca.gov/fingerprints/record-review
What happens if I don't hear from DOJ or FBI?
If you do not hear from DOJ or FBI then you can send a request for Background Check Status at: https://applicantstatus.doj.ca.gov/ (Need ATI number that was issued at the time of the Live Scan and birthdate).