What Is LiveScan Fingerprinting and Why Is It Required?

If you’ve recently applied for a job, a professional license, or a background check, there’s a good chance someone told you, “You need to get LiveScan fingerprints done.” But what exactly is LiveScan fingerprinting? Why is it used, and who needs it?

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or someone renewing a license, this post will walk you through what LiveScan fingerprinting is, how it works, and why it’s become a key part of background checks across New Jersey and the U.S.

What Is LiveScan Fingerprinting?

LiveScan is a digital fingerprinting technology used to capture fingerprints electronically, without the need for messy ink or paper cards. Once the fingerprints are captured, they are transmitted directly to government agencies—like the FBI, Department of Justice (DOJ), or state-specific agencies—for the purpose of conducting a criminal background check.

LiveScan is fast, secure, and more accurate than traditional ink fingerprinting. It’s used to verify identity and ensure that applicants meet eligibility requirements for certain jobs, licenses, or legal processes.

How LiveScan Works

The LiveScan process is pretty straightforward and typically takes less than 15 minutes. Here’s a quick step-by-step breakdown:

1. Appointment Scheduling
   Many providers allow you to book an appointment online or by phone. Walk-ins may also be accepted, depending on availability.
   
2. Document Check
   You’ll need to bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (like a driver’s license or passport) and your Request for LiveScan Service form—usually provided by the agency requesting the fingerprints.
   
3. Fingerprint Capture
   Your fingerprints are scanned electronically using a LiveScan machine. No ink, no mess, and no drying time!
   
4. Transmission
   The prints are securely sent to the appropriate agency or agencies (e.g., DOJ, FBI, or state licensing boards) for processing.
   
5. Results
   Results are typically sent directly to the requesting agency, not to the applicant. Processing time can vary but usually takes anywhere from 48 hours to several weeks, depending on the agency and reason for the scan.
   

Why Is LiveScan Required?

LiveScan is required in situations where security, trust, and public safety are at stake. It provides a reliable, government-verified way to check an individual’s criminal history before they take on certain responsibilities or roles.

Here are some of the most common reasons why LiveScan fingerprinting might be required:

1. Employment Background Checks

Jobs that involve working with vulnerable populations—like children, the elderly, or people with disabilities—often require LiveScan. This includes positions in:

• Education (teachers, school aides, administrators)
  
• Healthcare (nurses, CNAs, EMTs, caregivers)
  
• Law enforcement and public safety
  
• Financial institutions
  
• Government agencies
  

2. Professional Licensing

In New Jersey and other states, many licensing boards require LiveScan as part of the application process. Common examples include:

• Real estate agents and brokers
  
• Nurses and other medical professionals
  
• Attorneys
  
• Security guards
  
• Contractors and electricians
  

3. Volunteer Work

Organizations that serve children or at-risk populations often require LiveScan for volunteers, especially those working directly with clients or handling sensitive information.

4. Immigration and Citizenship

LiveScan may be required during the naturalization process or when applying for certain immigration benefits.

5. Adoptions and Foster Care

Potential foster or adoptive parents must often complete a LiveScan background check to ensure a safe environment for children.

The Benefits of LiveScan

So why is LiveScan preferred over traditional fingerprinting? Here are a few key reasons:

• Speed: Digital capture and electronic submission make the process faster from start to finish.
  
• Accuracy: LiveScan reduces errors and rejected fingerprint submissions, which are more common with ink-and-roll methods.
  
• Clean & Convenient: No messy ink, no smudging, and results go straight to the agency.
  
• Secure: Data is encrypted and sent directly to the receiving agency through secure channels.
  

What If You’ve Been Fingerprinted Before?

You may be wondering, “If I’ve already done this once, do I have to do it again?” Unfortunately, yes—each LiveScan submission is tied to a specific request. Agencies cannot share results with each other due to privacy laws. So, even if you’ve had LiveScan done for one job or license, you’ll likely need to do it again if applying for a different position or license.

Final Thoughts

LiveScan fingerprinting is more than just a modern alternative to ink—it’s a vital part of ensuring safety, accountability, and trust across many industries. Whether you’re applying for a job, renewing a license, or volunteering with a local nonprofit, LiveScan makes it easy to verify your background in a fast, reliable way.

At our notary and fingerprinting service, we make the LiveScan process smooth, stress-free, and efficient. Our certified technicians are trained to ensure your prints are captured correctly the first time—so you can focus on your next big step.

Need LiveScan fingerprinting in your area?
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or walk in during business hours. Fast, accurate, and fully certified—let’s get it done right the first time. We recommend newport beach livescan.