If you’re preparing for a job, license, certification, or volunteer role in California, there’s a good chance you’ll need Live Scan fingerprinting. For many applicants, this is their first time going through the process—so it’s completely normal to wonder what will happen during your appointment.
At Capital Live Scan, our goal is to make fingerprinting fast, easy, and stress-free. Here’s everything you can expect from the moment you arrive to the moment your fingerprints are submitted.
1. Bring the Right Documents
Before your appointment, make sure you have:
✔️ A Valid Photo ID
Acceptable forms include:
- Driver’s License
- State ID
- Passport
- Military ID
- Green Card
✔️ Your 8016 Request for Live Scan Form
This form is provided by the agency or employer requesting your background check.
It includes:
- Your job title or application type
- The ORI number
- The type of background check needed
- Billing or payment details (if covered by your employer)
Having this form filled out before you arrive helps speed up your appointment.
2. A Quick Check-In Process
When you arrive at Capital Live Scan, our technician will:
- Confirm your identity
- Review your 8016 Live Scan form
- Verify that all required fields are completed
- Answer any questions you may have
This part usually takes only a few minutes.
3. Digital Fingerprint Capture
Next, you’ll be guided to the Live Scan machine. Unlike traditional ink fingerprinting, Live Scan uses a digital scanner—so the process is clean, fast, and highly accurate.
Here’s what happens:
- Your hands will be cleaned or sanitized if needed.
- Each finger is placed on the scanner, one at a time.
- The machine captures high-resolution images of your prints.
- The technician checks the images for clarity and quality.
- Any unclear prints are retaken immediately.
The process is:
- Non-invasive
- Ink-free
- Quick (usually less than 10 minutes)
Our trained technicians are experienced in capturing prints for individuals with faint or worn ridges, ensuring the best possible results.
4. Electronic Submission to DOJ & FBI
Once your fingerprints are captured, they are transmitted electronically to the California Department of Justice (DOJ). Depending on your application, they may also be sent to the FBI.
Your agency receives the results directly—Capital Live Scan does not receive, store, or access your background check results.
5. After Your Appointment: What Happens Next?
Most background checks are completed within a few days, although processing times vary depending on:
- The requesting agency
- DOJ/FBI volume
- The type of background check
If your agency requires tracking, you can use the ATI number on your Live Scan form and your date of birth to check processing status through the California DOJ website.
6. Tips for the Best Live Scan Experience
To help ensure smooth processing, we recommend:
- Avoid using lotions or oils before your appointment
- Bring the correct 8016 Live Scan form (each agency uses its own)
- Confirm any payment instructions beforehand
If you have dry or worn fingerprints, we can offer additional guidance and tips during your appointment.
Why Choose Capital Live Scan?
At Capital Live Scan, we provide:
- Friendly, certified Live Scan technicians
- Fast and efficient appointments
- Clean, modern equipment
- Walk-ins Welcome
- Clear guidance based on your agency’s requirements
We make the fingerprinting process straightforward so you can focus on your next steps—whether that’s starting a new job, earning a license, or volunteering in your community.
Get Your Live Scan Today
Ready to get fingerprinted?
Visit Capital Live Scan today and experience a smooth, professional process from start to finish. Find a location near you.