Department of Justice Background Check: How DOJ & FBI Fingerprint Checks Work
What Is a Department of Justice Background Check?
A Department of Justice background check is a fingerprint-based criminal history search processed through the California DOJ and, when required, the FBI. Unlike name-based database screenings, DOJ background checks use Live Scan fingerprint submission to match records using biometric identity.
Because fingerprints uniquely identify each person, DOJ and FBI background checks produce more accurate and legally recognized results.
Who Performs DOJ Background Checks?
The California Department of Justice (DOJ) maintains the statewide criminal record repository. In addition, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) maintains the national fingerprint database.
Together, these agencies process:
- California criminal history records
- Interstate criminal records
- Federal records
- Arrest and disposition data
- Licensing and clearance checks
Most regulated background checks route through one or both systems.
How a DOJ Fingerprint Background Check Works
A DOJ background check follows a fingerprint submission process rather than a name search. First, a certified Live Scan provider captures your fingerprints electronically. Then the system transmits those prints securely to the DOJ and FBI databases.
Step-by-step process:
- Agency issues Live Scan request form
- Applicant completes Live Scan fingerprinting
- Prints transmit electronically to DOJ
- FBI receives prints when required
- Records are matched using biometric identity
- Results go directly to the requesting agency
No ink cards and no mailing are required.
What DOJ Background Checks Are Used For
Department of Justice background checks support many regulated and licensed activities. For example, agencies require them for:
- Employment screening
- Professional licensing
- Healthcare positions
- Education and school staff
- Security clearances
- Firearm purchases
- Government roles
- Caregiver and IHSS programs
- Financial and legal positions
Therefore, DOJ fingerprint background checks often serve as the compliance standard.
DOJ Background Check vs Private Background Check
Many private background checks rely on name and database searches. However, DOJ background checks rely on fingerprints and official government records.
Private background checks:
- Name based
- Database dependent
- May miss records
- Not always accepted for licensing
DOJ fingerprint background checks:
- Fingerprint verified
- Government database matched
- Legally recognized
- Required for regulated roles
As a result, DOJ checks provide higher verification accuracy.
Are DOJ Background Checks FBI Approved?
Yes. When required, DOJ fingerprint submissions also route to the FBI. The FBI performs a national fingerprint search and returns federal record matches.
This dual-agency process ensures:
- State record coverage
- National record coverage
- Identity certainty
- Compliance acceptance
Because of this structure, DOJ/FBI fingerprint background checks meet strict regulatory standards.
Where to Get a DOJ Background Check in Downtown Los Angeles
To complete a DOJ background check, you must use a certified Live Scan fingerprint provider. The provider captures your prints electronically and submits them directly to the DOJ system.
At MR Fingerprints in Downtown Los Angeles, applicants can complete:
- DOJ background checks
- FBI fingerprint checks
- Licensing Live Scan submissions
- Employment fingerprint checks
- Same-day Live Scan service
Appointments help reduce wait time and processing delays.
FAQs — DOJ Background Checks
Most DOJ Live Scan submissions process within 24–72 hours, although some agency reviews take longer.
Yes. Official DOJ background checks require Live Scan fingerprint submission.
Yes. Fingerprint matching reduces identity errors and false matches.
Not for regulated roles. Licensing and government agencies usually require DOJ fingerprint checks.
Get Your DOJ Background Check Completed Fast in Downtown Los Angeles
Need a certified Department of Justice background check or FBI fingerprint submission? MR Fingerprints provides fast, accurate Live Scan fingerprinting with secure electronic DOJ and FBI transmission. Book your Downtown Los Angeles appointment today and complete your background check correctly the first time.
