Uber Background Checks: How They Work and When Live Scan Fingerprinting Is Required
Uber background checks play a critical role in driver approval and public safety. However, many applicants misunderstand how these checks actually work and how they differ from official fingerprint-based screenings. While Uber uses private background screening systems, many government agencies and regulated industries require Live Scan fingerprint background checks instead.
In this guide, you’ll learn how Uber background checks work, how they compare to Live Scan fingerprinting, and when drivers or applicants may need a DOJ and FBI fingerprint submission in California.
How Uber Background Checks Work
Uber typically uses a private third-party screening company to review driver history. Instead of using fingerprints, these systems usually rely on:
- Name-based searches
- Social Security number traces
- Address history matching
- Criminal database queries
- Driving record checks
Because these checks are not fingerprint-based, results depend heavily on database accuracy and identity matching. As a result, records may be incomplete, outdated, or incorrectly matched in some cases.
By contrast, fingerprint background checks use biometric identity verification, which produces more reliable and legally recognized results.
Uber Background Checks vs Live Scan Fingerprinting
Many people assume all background checks work the same way. However, Uber background checks and Live Scan fingerprint checks follow very different standards.
Uber-style background checks:
- Name and SSN based
- Database dependent
- Not fingerprint verified
- Conducted by private screening firms
- Limited by reporting accuracy
Live Scan fingerprint background checks:
- Fingerprint identity verified
- Submitted to California DOJ
- Submitted to FBI when required
- Uses official government databases
- Required for regulated roles
Therefore, Live Scan provides a higher level of identity certainty and regulatory compliance.
When Live Scan Is Required Instead of a Private Background Check
In California, many regulated roles require fingerprint-based background checks rather than private database checks.
You may need Live Scan fingerprinting if you work in:
- Government positions
- Healthcare roles
- Education and school districts
- Licensing boards
- Security and guard cards
- Caregiving and IHSS services
- Financial or legal services
- Adoption or immigration processing
In these cases, private rideshare-style background checks do not meet compliance standards.
Are Uber Driver Background Checks DOJ & FBI Approved?
Most Uber background checks do not use DOJ or FBI fingerprint submissions. Instead, they rely on commercial screening databases. While these systems provide fast results, they do not replace fingerprint-based verification.
Live Scan fingerprinting, on the other hand:
- Submits prints directly to the California Department of Justice
- Submits to the FBI when required
- Uses electronic transmission
- Requires no paper cards
- Matches records using biometric identity
Because of this process, Live Scan fingerprint checks meet legal and licensing requirements across California.
Why Fingerprint Background Checks Are More Reliable
Fingerprint-based checks reduce identity errors and false matches. Since fingerprints uniquely identify each person, agencies can match records with much greater accuracy.
Additionally, DOJ and FBI systems receive continuous updates from courts and law enforcement agencies. That means fingerprint checks often return more complete and current records.
As a result, many regulated industries trust fingerprint background checks over name-based screenings.
Can Uber Drivers Be Asked to Complete Live Scan?
Yes — in some situations, Uber drivers may still need Live Scan fingerprinting. For example:
- When applying for a regulated permit
- When working additional licensed jobs
- When contracting with government agencies
- When required by local programs or grants
- When pursuing professional licensing
In those cases, drivers must complete an official Live Scan fingerprint background check.
Live Scan Fingerprinting for Background Checks in Downtown Los Angeles
If you need a fingerprint background check, you can complete Live Scan quickly and securely in Downtown Los Angeles. The process is fully electronic and usually takes only minutes to complete.
You will need:
- Valid government ID
- Request form from the agency
- Correct ORI code
- Payment for rolling + government fees
Results go directly to the requesting agency. You do not need to mail fingerprint cards.
FAQs — Uber and Fingerprint Background Checks
No. Uber typically uses private database screening rather than fingerprint submission.
Usually not. Most agencies require DOJ or FBI fingerprint background checks.
Yes. Fingerprint matching reduces identity errors and record mismatches.
You can complete Live Scan fingerprinting at MR Fingerprints in Downtown LA with same-day service.
Need a Fingerprint Background Check in Downtown Los Angeles?
Skip unreliable database searches and get an official DOJ or FBI fingerprint background check. Schedule your Live Scan appointment with MR Fingerprints today for fast, accurate, and compliant results.