Key takeaways
- Live Scan captures and sends fingerprints electronically, but it only works for requirements that accept electronic submission from that provider.
- Check your instructions before searching for a location. Some programs require a specific provider or an FD-258 card instead.
- Organizations with several people to fingerprint can often skip individual appointments with an on-site session.
What Live Scan fingerprinting is
Live Scan is inkless, digital fingerprinting. A technician captures each finger on a glass scanner, the system checks image quality, and the prints are transmitted electronically with the applicant’s details to the agency or organization processing the background check.
Because the process is electronic, there are no ink cards to mail. The term is used in many states, although each state and program sets its own rules about who can submit and how.
When you may need Live Scan
- State licensing applications in fields such as healthcare, education, security or real estate
- Employment in roles that require a fingerprint-based background check
- Volunteer, childcare or school positions with screening requirements
- Programs that accept electronic fingerprint submission
Your instructions should state whether Live Scan is accepted. If they mention an FD-258 card, a hard card or a mailed card, Live Scan may not be the right option. Our explainer on FBI background check fingerprinting covers both methods.
Why location is not the only factor
A search for Live Scan fingerprinting near me often returns a mix of different kinds of providers. A nearby location only helps if it can meet the requirement from the agency requesting your check.
- Some state programs use designated providers or require registration before fingerprinting.
- Live Scan in one state often cannot submit to another state’s program, so out-of-state applicants frequently use FD-258 cards.
- Hours, appointment availability and walk-in policies differ between providers.
What to bring to a Live Scan appointment
- Valid government-issued photo identification
- The request form, registration confirmation or agency code from your instructions
- Payment for any fees collected at the appointment
- Details the form may ask for, such as your employer or license type
Arriving with your paperwork complete keeps the appointment short and helps avoid errors in the submitted record. The step-by-step job fingerprinting guide covers preparation in more detail.
Fixed-location or mobile fingerprinting
| Option | Best suited to | Things to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed location | Individuals and small numbers of people | Travel time, hours and whether appointments are required |
| Mobile or on-site service | Groups at one workplace, campus or facility | Headcount, space, scheduling and service area |
For one person, a fixed location is often the simplest choice. For a team or student cohort, bringing fingerprinting on-site can save time for everyone involved. See how group fingerprinting services are organized.
How to choose a fingerprinting provider
- Can they meet the exact requirement in your instructions, including the method and submission route?
- Do they review print quality before you leave?
- Are capture fees and any agency fees explained clearly?
- Do they offer appointments, walk-ins or on-site service that fits your timeline?
Organizations comparing on-site providers can use our buyer’s guide to choosing a mobile fingerprinting company.
Fingerprinting near me in the Kansas City metro
Midwest Identity Services is based in Kansas City, Missouri, and works with organizations across the metro. Missouri and Kansas each set their own requirements, so tell us which agency or program is requesting fingerprints and we will confirm the right capture method before anything is scheduled. For a group, you can book an appointment for an on-site session.
For requirements in other states, start with the instructions from your requesting agency, then confirm a provider can meet them.