When someone asks us, “How long does a Live Scan take?” they could be asking two different questions:

1. How long does it take to capture and submit the fingerprints?
2. How long does it take to receive the background check results?

Let’s answer both.

How Long Does It Take to Get Fingerprinted?

The actual process of capturing and submitting Live Scan fingerprints usually takes no more than 10 to 15 minutes per person, provided the applicant has the correct paperwork and identification.

Before coming in, the applicant should obtain the completed Request for Live Scan Service form from the employer, licensing agency, attorney or organization requesting the background check. The requesting agency is responsible for providing the correct form and agency information.

Applicants must also bring a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state identification card or passport. The California Department of Justice requires valid photo identification before fingerprints can be submitted.

At A1, we carefully review the form and applicant information before submitting the fingerprints. This is important because incorrect or missing information can delay the results.

Why Is My Live Scan Taking Longer Than Expected?

Sometimes applicants experience delays after completing their fingerprinting appointment.

Common reasons for delayed Live Scan results include:

1. Fingerprint Quality Issues

If fingerprints are unclear or difficult to capture, the submission may require additional review or may need to be repeated.

Factors that can affect fingerprint quality include:

• Dry skin
• Worn fingerprints
• Cuts or injuries on fingers
• Poor scanner contact

Experienced Live Scan technicians help ensure fingerprints are captured correctly the first time.

2. Incorrect Information on the Request Form

Errors on the Live Scan form can create processing delays.

Examples include:

• Incorrect personal information
• Wrong agency information
• Missing required details
• Incorrect background check type

This is why reviewing all information before submission is an important step.

3. Additional Background Review

Some applications require additional review by state or federal agencies.

This may happen when:

• Additional records need verification
• Multiple databases need to be checked
• Further investigation is required

These situations are outside the control of the Live Scan provider.

4. High Processing Volume

Government agencies may experience increased processing times during periods of high application volume.

Planning ahead and completing Live Scan fingerprinting early can help avoid delays.

How Can You Make Your Live Scan Process Faster?

Although applicants cannot control government processing times, they can take steps to avoid unnecessary delays.

Here are some tips:

Bring the Correct Documents

Before your appointment, confirm that you have:

• Completed Live Scan request form
• Valid government-issued photo ID
• Any additional documents requested by your organization

Verify Your Information

Double-check your:

• Name spelling
• Date of birth
• Personal details
• Agency information

Even small mistakes can affect processing.

Schedule Your Appointment Early

If your Live Scan is required for employment, licensing, volunteering, or professional certification, do not wait until the last minute.

Completing your fingerprints early gives you enough time if additional steps are required.

Choose an Experienced Live Scan Provider

A professional Live Scan provider like A1 Live Scan can help ensure fingerprints are captured properly and submitted correctly.

A professional Live Scan provider can help ensure:

• Proper fingerprint capture
• Accurate submission
• Reduced chances of rejection
• Faster appointment experience

At A1 Live Scan, we focus on providing a convenient and reliable fingerprinting experience for individuals and organizations.

How Do I Check the Status of My Live Scan?

After the fingerprints are submitted, A1 gives the applicant copies of the completed Live Scan form. These copies contain an ATI number, sometimes called the fingerprint transaction or confirmation number.

The applicant should:

• Keep one copy for their records.
• Give the other copy to the employer, attorney or requesting agency.
• Take a clear picture of the form in case the paper copy is misplaced.

The ATI number appears near the bottom of the completed Live Scan form.

Applicants can check the status of a California DOJ fingerprint transaction through the DOJ’s online Applicant Background Check Status system. You can check the processing status of your personal Live Scan directly through the California Department of Justice at https://applicantstatus.doj.ca.gov/ . You will need the ATI number shown at the bottom of your completed Live Scan form and your date of birth.

• The status page will usually show whether the California DOJ and FBI portions have been completed. However, it will not display the actual background check results.

If the online system shows that the results were completed, but the requesting agency says it has not received them, the applicant should first contact that agency. The DOJ advises applicants to allow at least 30 days before making a formal status inquiry regarding results that have not been received.

How Long Does a Live Scan Appointment Take at A1 Live Scan?

At A1 Live Scan, most fingerprinting appointments are completed within 10 to 15 minutes.

Our process includes:

• Reviewing your Live Scan request form
• Checking your identification
• Capturing fingerprints electronically
• Confirming fingerprint quality
• Submitting information securely

Our goal is to make the process simple while ensuring your fingerprints are submitted correctly the first time.