Live Scan vs. Traditional Fingerprinting – What’s the Difference?

Live Scan vs. Traditional Fingerprinting – What’s the Difference
Los Angeles' EXPERT LIVE SCAN FINGERPRINTING

Live Scan vs. Traditional Fingerprinting
Which One Do You Need?

Are you unsure whether to choose Live Scan or traditional ink fingerprinting? While both methods are used for background checks, they differ in process, speed, and acceptance by various agencies. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences so you can decide which one is best for your needs.

What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting

Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting method that captures fingerprints electronically and sends them directly to government agencies like the DOJ (Department of Justice) and FBI for background checks.

When Is Live Scan Required?

Live Scan is commonly required for:

✔️ Employment background checks
✔️ State licensing (e.g., healthcare, teachers, real estate)
✔️ Volunteer positions (schools, nonprofits)
✔️ Legal purposes (court orders, adoptions)

Benefits of Live Scan

✔️ Fast Processing: Results in 24–72 hours
✔️ No Ink Required: No risk of smudges or rejections
✔️ Direct Submission: Sent electronically to the DOJ/FBI
✔️ Accurate & Secure: Reduces human error

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What Is Traditional Ink Fingerprinting?

Traditional fingerprinting involves using ink and paper fingerprint cards, which are physically mailed to the requesting agency.

When Is Ink Fingerprinting Required?

Ink fingerprinting is often required for:

✔️ Federal background checks (if Live Scan is not accepted)
✔️ Out-of-state licensing (some states do not accept Live Scan)
✔️ Immigration and visa applications
✔️ International employment and travel requirements

Benefits of Ink Fingerprinting

✔️ Nationwide & International Use – Required for federal & out-of-state applications
✔️ Accepted by More Agencies – Some organizations still require paper cards

Drawbacks of Ink Fingerprinting

❌ Slower Processing: Takes 1–2 weeks or more
❌ Risk of Errors: Smudges or rejections may require redoing prints
❌ No Digital Submission: Must be mailed manually

Comparison: Live Scan vs. Traditional Ink Fingerprinting

Live Scan vs. Ink Fingerprinting: Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureLive ScanTraditional Ink
Fingerprint CaptureDigital (electronic scanner)Ink on paper fingerprint cards
Processing Time24–72 hours1–2 weeks (or longer)
Submission MethodElectronic (sent directly to DOJ/FBI)Must be mailed manually
AccuracyHigh (less prone to smudging/errors)Higher risk of smudges/rejections
Where It’s AcceptedCA state agencies, employersFederal agencies, out-of-state
Use for Background Checks?YesYes
International Use?NoYes

Which One Do You Need?

Choose Live Scan If You:

✅ Need a California background check for employment or licensing
✅ Require fingerprinting for DOJ, FBI, or law enforcement agencies
✅ Want fast processing with electronic submission

Choose Ink Fingerprinting If You:

✅ Are applying for a federal job or out-of-state license
✅ Need fingerprinting for immigration, visas, or travel
✅ Are submitting forms to agencies that do not accept Live Scan

Live Scan vs. Traditional Ink Fingerprinting

FAQs – Live Scan vs. Ink Fingerprinting

Is Live Scan more accurate than ink fingerprinting?

Yes! Live Scan reduces smudging and rejection rates, making it more reliable than ink fingerprinting.

Yes, but only if the requesting agency allows it. Some federal agencies still require ink fingerprinting on FD-258 cards.

Most results are processed within 24–72 hours, while ink fingerprinting can take 1–2 weeks

Yes! We provide both services at our Rancho Cucamonga location.

No. Live Scan is generally only valid within California. Ink fingerprinting is required for out-of-state or international use

Need Fingerprinting? We’ve Got You Covered!

Schedule Your Appointment

Whether you need Live Scan or traditional ink fingerprinting, MR Fingerprints has the services you need:

✅ Same-day Live Scan appointments
✅ Ink fingerprinting on official FD-258 cards
✅ Mobile fingerprinting for businesses and groups

💡 Fast, Reliable, and Hassle-Free Live Scan
💻 Book Online: https://mrfingerprints.com/book-your-apointment/

Don’t wait — get fingerprinted today and keep your background check process moving smoothly!

How to Get a Live Scan in Downtown Los Angeles – A Step-by-Step Guide

Live Scan fingerprinting in Los Angeles
Live Scan fingerprinting in Los Angeles
Downtown Los Angeles EXPERT Live Scan Fingerprinting

Looking for fast, accurate
Live Scan fingerprinting in Downtown Los Angeles?

What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting

Live Scan is a modern, digital fingerprinting method that captures fingerprints electronically and sends them directly to government agencies like the DOJ and FBI for background checks. It’s faster, more accurate, and eliminates the need for messy ink cards.

  • Employment background checks
  • Professional licensing (e.g., real estate, healthcare, teachers)
  • Legal purposes (e.g., adoptions, immigration, court orders)
  • Volunteer work involving vulnerable populations

Is Live Scan Fingerprinting DOJ & FBI Approved?

Live Scan fingerprinting is fully approved for submission to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and, when required, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Your fingerprints are captured electronically and transmitted securely to the appropriate government agency for processing, ensuring fast and accurate background check results. Unlike traditional ink fingerprint cards, Live Scan eliminates paper forms and manual mailing, reducing errors and processing delays. This electronic submission process is the standard method accepted for employment, licensing, legal, and background check requirements in California.

Where to Get Live Scan in Downtown Los Angeles?

Mr. Fingerprints – Downtown Los Angeles offers:

  • Same-Day Service
  • Walk-Ins Welcome
  • Mobil Fingerprinting (We come to you!)
  • DOJ & FBI Approved Services

📍 Address: 617 S Olive St # 806 Los Angeles, CA 90014
📞 Phone: (909) 893-5579
💻 Book Online: https://mrfingerprints.com/book-your-apointment/

Schedule Your Appointment

Step-by-Step: How to Get a Live Scan Fingerprinting

Prepare the Required Documents

Before your appointment, make sure you have: 

  • A valid, government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport) 
  • A completed Live Scan Request Form (BCIA 8016) — usually provided by your employer or requesting agency 
  • Payment method (cash, credit/debit, or as specified)

💡 Tip: Double-check that the Requesting Agency ORI code is filled out correctly on your form.

Schedule Your Appointment (or Walk In)

  • Book online through our scheduling system or simply walk in during business hours.
  • For groups or corporate needs, use our Mobile Live Scan service — we’ll come to your location!

Get Fingerprinted at MR Fingerprints

During your appointment: 

  • A trained technician will capture your fingerprints electronically using Live Scan equipment  
  • The process typically takes 10–15 minutes
  • We’ll submit your fingerprints directly to the DOJ, FBI, or other required agencies

💡 No ink, no mess, and no delays — it’s that simple!

 

Pay the Required Fees

The total cost of Live Scan includes:

  • Rolling Fee (service charge) → Starting at $30
  • Government Fees → Vary based on the requesting agency (usually between $32–$75)

We’ll confirm the exact amount before your appointment.

fingerprinting in Downtown Los Angeles

Wait for Your Results

Most results are processed within 24–72 hours

  • Some background checks may take longer, depending on the agency
  • Results are sent directly to the requesting agency — MR Fingerprints does not receive copies 

FAQs – Live Scan Downtown Los Angeles

Where can I get Live Scan fingerprinting in Downtown Los Angeles?

You can get Live Scan fingerprinting in Downtown Los Angeles at MR Fingerprints, conveniently located inside the Oviatt Building. Appointments are available for fast service, and walk-ins may be accommodated based on availability. Mobile Live Scan services are also available upon request for groups or on-site needs.

The Live Scan fingerprinting appointment itself typically takes 10 to 15 minutes to complete. Once fingerprints are submitted electronically, processing times vary by agency. Many background check results are returned within 24 to 72 hours, although some agencies may take longer depending on their review process and workload.

Bring a valid photo ID, your Live Scan Request Form, and payment for service and government fees

The rolling fee starts at $30, plus government fees ranging from $32–$75, depending on your requesting agency.

Yes! MR Fingerprints offers mobile Live Scan services for businesses, schools, and groups — we come to you!

Yes. Live Scan fingerprinting is required for most official background checks in California, including those for employment, professional licensing, legal matters, immigration, and volunteer positions involving vulnerable populations. Many state and federal agencies mandate Live Scan as the official method for submitting fingerprints to the DOJ and FBI.

Live Scan fingerprints are accepted by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), as well as by many requesting agencies, including employers, licensing boards, courts, government agencies, and volunteer organizations. Live Scan is the standard fingerprinting method required for most official background check submissions in California.

Ready to Book Your Live Scan Appointment?

Schedule Your Appointment

💡 Fast, Reliable, and Hassle-Free Live Scan in Downtown Los Angeles!
📞 Call Now: 213.761.5883
💻 Book Online: https://mrfingerprints.com/book-your-apointment/
📍 Visit Us: 617 S Olive St # 806 Los Angeles, CA 90014

Don’t wait — get fingerprinted today and keep your background check process moving smoothly!