What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting?
Live Scan fingerprinting is an electronic method of capturing your fingerprints and securely sending them to government agencies, usually the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI. Instead of using ink and paper cards, a special scanner captures clear, digital images of your fingerprints and transmits them for a criminal background check.
In California, Live Scan is the standard for most state-level background checks. If you live or work in the San Fernando Valley, you’ll often be asked to complete Live Scan in connection with employment, licensing, volunteering, or immigration-related processes.
Who Needs Live Scan Fingerprinting?
Many organizations and agencies require Live Scan as part of their screening process. In Sherman Oaks and across the San Fernando Valley, you’re likely to need Live Scan if you are:
- Applying for professional licenses – Nurses, real estate agents, contractors, security guards, notaries, insurance agents, and many other licensed professionals often need DOJ/FBI background checks.
- Working with children or vulnerable adults – Teachers, school staff, camp counselors, daycare providers, foster parents, and caregivers commonly require Live Scan clearance.
- Volunteering – Many youth sports leagues, church groups, and nonprofit organizations require Live Scan before you can volunteer.
- Starting certain jobs – Healthcare workers, financial services employees, government staff, and some property management and housing roles may require Live Scan.
- Adoption, guardianship, or foster care – Family court and social services agencies typically require Live Scan for all adults in the home.
- Immigration or record review – Some immigration-related processes or personal record reviews (e.g., checking your own DOJ or FBI history) may require Live Scan-based checks.
Your requesting agency (the employer, licensing board, or organization) will tell you if you must complete Live Scan and which type of background check is required.
FBI vs. DOJ Background Checks
Most Live Scan requests in California route your fingerprints to one or both of these agencies:
DOJ (California Department of Justice) Checks
The DOJ runs your fingerprints through California’s criminal history database. This is often required for positions or licenses regulated by California law. A DOJ check may be the only requirement for some roles that are purely state-regulated.
FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) Checks
An FBI background check searches national criminal history records. This is often required when:
- The position involves sensitive populations or high trust.
- The license is recognized across states.
- A federal agency or program is involved.
Many Live Scan requests include both DOJ and FBI checks. The Live Scan operator in Sherman Oaks doesn’t decide which databases are searched; that is determined by the requesting agency and indicated on your Request for Live Scan Service form.
Required Documents for Live Scan Fingerprinting
Showing up prepared is the easiest way to make your Live Scan appointment quick and stress-free. Before you visit a Live Scan location in Sherman Oaks, make sure you have the following:
1. Request for Live Scan Service Form
This is the most important document. In California, it’s usually called the BCIA 8016 form, but some agencies use specific versions. Your form should be:
- Provided by the requesting agency (employer, licensing board, school, etc.).
- Already filled out by that agency at the top portion ("ORI", "Type of Application", "Job Title", "Agency Address", billing information, etc.).
- Filled out by you in the sections where the applicant completes personal information.
The Live Scan operator will use this form to enter your data correctly and select the correct DOJ/FBI billing codes. If you don’t have this form, your Live Scan cannot be processed.
2. Valid Government-Issued Photo ID
You must present a current, valid ID. Acceptable forms typically include:
- State-issued driver’s license or identification card
- U.S. passport or passport card
- Foreign passport with valid U.S. visa/entry stamp (where applicable)
- U.S. military ID
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
If your ID is expired, damaged, or doesn’t match the name on your Live Scan form, your fingerprints may not be taken. If your name has recently changed (e.g., marriage or court order), bring supporting documents such as a marriage certificate or court decree just in case.
3. Payment Method
Live Scan costs are usually separated into:
- Rolling fee – Charged by the Live Scan provider for capturing your fingerprints.
- DOJ/FBI or other agency fees – State and federal fees for processing the background check.
Sometimes your employer or agency bills these fees directly; other times you pay on the spot. Check in advance whether you’ll be paying and what payment methods are accepted (cash, card, etc.).
How the Live Scan Process Works
Knowing the steps ahead of time will help you feel more comfortable when you walk into a Live Scan location in Sherman Oaks.
Step 1: Check-In and Form Review
When you arrive, the technician will review your Request for Live Scan Service form and your ID. They’ll confirm that all the required fields are filled in and that your ID matches your form.
Step 2: Fingerprint Capture
You’ll be guided to place your fingers on a glass or ceramic scanner. The operator will roll and flat-scan each finger. If you have dry, cracked, or worn fingerprints, it can help to:
- Moisturize your hands lightly the night before (avoid oily lotions right before the scan).
- Stay hydrated so your skin isn’t excessively dry.
- Let the technician know if you have cuts, bandages, or injuries that might affect print quality.
The process is quick and painless. It usually takes about 10–15 minutes.
Step 3: Electronic Submission
Once your prints are captured, they are securely transmitted to the DOJ, and, if required, to the FBI. The operator will give you a copy of the Request for Live Scan Service form with an ATI number (Applicant Tracking Identifier). This number is your proof that the Live Scan was completed and can be used by the requesting agency to track the status.
Typical Processing Times
Live Scan results are usually processed quickly, but timing can vary based on the type of check and the agencies involved.
- DOJ-only checks: Often process within 2–3 business days, sometimes sooner.
- DOJ + FBI checks: Usually 3–7 business days, though delays can occur.
- Additional agency reviews: If another state or federal agency must review your record, expect longer processing times.
Live Scan providers in Sherman Oaks, including Federal Mailbox Center, do not receive your results and cannot speed up the process. Results go directly to the requesting agency. If it’s been more than two weeks and you’ve heard nothing, contact the agency that requested the Live Scan and have your ATI number ready.
Practical Tips to Avoid Delays
A little preparation goes a long way. To help your Live Scan go smoothly in the San Fernando Valley, keep these tips in mind:
- Double-check your form: Make sure all sections that you are responsible for are complete and legible. Missing information can cause rejected submissions.
- Confirm your appointment and hours: Some Live Scan locations accept walk-ins; others require appointments. Always check current hours before you go.
- Bring a second ID if possible: While one ID is typically enough, having a backup can be helpful if there’s any question about your primary ID.
- Avoid last-minute rush: If you have a licensing or hiring deadline, get your Live Scan done as early as possible to allow for processing time and any potential resubmissions.
- Care for your hands: Excessive dryness, calluses, or heavy hand lotion can interfere with print quality. Keep hands clean and moderately moisturized.
Live Scan in Sherman Oaks and the San Fernando Valley
If you live or work in Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Encino, or elsewhere in the San Fernando Valley, having a convenient, reliable Live Scan location nearby can save you time and stress.
At Federal Mailbox Center, located at 5632 Van Nuys Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91401, we offer Live Scan fingerprinting along with shipping, notary, mailbox rental, and other business services under one roof. That means you can often handle multiple tasks in a single visit.
Before you stop by, remember to:
- Bring your completed Request for Live Scan Service form.
- Carry a valid government-issued photo ID.
- Know who is paying the fees (you or your agency).
- Ask your requesting agency whether you need DOJ only, FBI only, or both.
Key Takeaways
Live Scan fingerprinting is a fast, secure way to complete required background checks for jobs, licenses, and volunteer positions in California. Understanding what documents you need, how DOJ and FBI checks work, and typical processing times will help you plan ahead and avoid delays.
Whether you’re starting a new career, renewing a license, or volunteering in the community, getting your Live Scan done properly the first time makes the rest of the process smoother. If you’re in Sherman Oaks or anywhere in the surrounding San Fernando Valley, choosing a local, experienced Live Scan provider helps ensure your prints are captured accurately and transmitted quickly.