Fingerprinting is a common requirement for various official purposes, from background checks for employment and licensing to immigration and legal processes. If you’re asking “Where Do I Go To Get My Fingerprints Taken?”, you’re in the right place. This guide will provide you with a clear understanding of where you can get your fingerprints taken and what you need to know before you go.
Understanding Your Fingerprinting Needs
Before searching for a fingerprinting location, it’s important to understand what type of fingerprinting service you require. The most common types are:
- Live Scan Fingerprinting: This is a digital fingerprinting process where your fingerprints are scanned electronically and directly submitted to the requesting agency. Live Scan is increasingly becoming the standard due to its efficiency and accuracy.
- Ink Fingerprinting: This traditional method involves rolling your fingers in ink and then pressing them onto fingerprint cards. While still accepted by some agencies, it’s gradually being replaced by Live Scan.
Your requesting agency or the organization requiring your fingerprints will usually specify whether they require Live Scan or if ink fingerprints are acceptable. Make sure you confirm this requirement before you proceed to get your fingerprints taken.
Where to Find Fingerprinting Services
Finding a location to get your fingerprints taken depends on the type of service you need and your location. Here are common places to consider:
1. Law Enforcement Agencies
Many local law enforcement agencies, such as police departments and sheriff’s offices, offer fingerprinting services to the public. This can be a convenient option, especially for ink fingerprinting. However, availability and fees can vary significantly. It’s advisable to:
- Check their website: Many agencies have websites detailing their services, including fingerprinting.
- Call their non-emergency line: Contact them directly to inquire about their fingerprinting services, hours of operation, fees, and whether they offer Live Scan or ink fingerprinting.
- Inquire about appointments: Some law enforcement agencies may require appointments for fingerprinting services.
2. Private Live Scan Providers
A growing number of private businesses specialize in Live Scan fingerprinting services. These providers are often more readily accessible and may offer more flexible hours compared to law enforcement agencies. To find private providers:
- Online Search: Use search engines like Google, Bing, or Yelp and search for “Live Scan fingerprinting near me” or “fingerprint services”.
- Professional Associations: Some industries or professions have associations that may list approved Live Scan providers.
- State/Agency Websites: Some state agencies or the agency requesting your fingerprints may have lists of approved Live Scan providers. For example, in California, the Department of Justice (DOJ) provides a search tool for Public Live Scan Sites.
When choosing a private provider, it’s important to:
- Verify Certification: Ensure the provider is certified and authorized to perform Live Scan fingerprinting, especially if required by your requesting agency.
- Check Fees: Rolling fees for Live Scan services can vary between providers. Inquire about their fees upfront. Remember that these rolling fees are separate from government processing fees which you may also need to pay.
- Confirm Accepted Payment Methods: Ask about accepted payment methods to ensure a smooth transaction.
- Operating Hours and Appointment: Check their operating hours and whether appointments are necessary or recommended.
3. Government Offices and Service Centers
In some cases, government offices or service centers may offer fingerprinting services, particularly for specific government-related applications. This is less common but worth investigating depending on the purpose of your fingerprinting. Check the website or contact the relevant government agency for information.
What to Bring to Your Fingerprinting Appointment
Regardless of where you choose to get your fingerprints taken, you will typically need to bring the following:
- Valid Photo Identification: You must present a valid, unexpired photo ID. Acceptable forms of identification usually include a driver’s license, passport, or government-issued photo ID card. Expired IDs are not accepted.
- Live Scan Form (if applicable): If you are getting Live Scan fingerprints, you may need to bring a specific Live Scan form provided by the requesting agency. Ensure it is completely filled out before your appointment.
- Payment: Be prepared to pay the rolling fees charged by the Live Scan provider or law enforcement agency. Understand the accepted payment methods beforehand. You may also need to pay government processing fees separately, depending on the process.
Important Considerations
- Government Fees: Be aware that government agencies (like the DOJ or FBI) often require separate fees for processing criminal history record checks. These are in addition to any rolling fees charged by the fingerprinting location.
- BNR Locations: Some Live Scan locations may be designated as “BNR” (Billing Number Required). These sites only provide services to applicants with agency billing numbers on their Live Scan forms and do not collect government fees directly.
- Rolling Fee Variability: Rolling fees are set by individual Live Scan providers and can vary. It’s always wise to inquire about fees beforehand.
- Additional Service Fees: Providers may charge additional service fees on top of rolling fees. Don’t hesitate to ask about all potential costs.
Conclusion
Finding where to get your fingerprints taken is usually straightforward with the right information. By understanding your fingerprinting needs, exploring the different types of providers, and preparing the necessary documents and payment, you can efficiently complete this process. Remember to always verify specific requirements with the requesting agency and confirm details with your chosen fingerprinting location beforehand to ensure a smooth and successful experience.
