FAQ

1. How long does it take for the live scan background check to complete?

The background check is completed by the DOJ and FBI, based on the level of service indicated on the Request for Live Scan Service form. The background results are forwarded to the Applicant Agency only (the company, organization, school, or government agency that requested the background results). The standard processing time is two to five days, however, some results may take longer. Any criminal history, or poor ridge detail (poor fingerprint quality), may cause further delays.

2. How can I check the status of my live scan background check?

Applicants should check with the Applicant Agency (the company, organization, school, or government agency that requested the background results) since the DOJ and FBI send the results directly to them. LPG Live Scan and the applicant do not receive the background results. If the Applicant Agency does not have the background results within seven days, applicants can use the DOJ Applicant Status Check Web Portal to determine the status of their background check by clicking here. Please ensure the following information is available before accessing the Portal:

  • The applicant’s date of birth
  • The 10-digit Applicant Transaction Identifier (ATI) number that appears at the bottom of the Request for Live Scan Service form. The ATI number always appears in the following sequence: 1 Letter; 3 Numbers; 3 Letters; 3 Numbers.

3. What happens if my fingerprints are rejected by the DOJ and/or FBI due to poor quality fingerprints?

Fingerprints are rejected on occasion by the DOJ and/or the FBI due to the applicant’s poor quality fingerprints, which may be caused by age (thin skin, fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, loss of firmness, etc.), dry skin, medical conditions, nature of work, or other factors. If LPG Live Scan did the original fingerprinting, they will fingerprint you again at no cost, at their office location during normal business hours. You must bring the DOJ/FBI Rejection Notice and a new Request for Live Scan Service form. If the applicant’s fingerprints are rejected a second time due to poor quality fingerprints, the Applicant Agency Custodian of Records can request a DOJ/FBI name check by completing a BCIA 8020 form.

4. How much are the Government (DOJ/FBI) background processing fees?

The DOJ/FBI applicant processing fees for state and federal level background checks vary by applicant type (e.g. employment, licensing, certification, permit, volunteer, etc.). Click here to view a list of standard processing fees. If the applicant is responsible for payment, fees will be collected by LPG Live Scan and remitted to the DOJ. If the Applicant Agency has a DOJ billing number listed on the Request for Live Scan Service form, the background processing fees will be charged to the Applicant Agency by the DOJ.

5. I have done live scan before for another license, certification, record review, or job. Why do I have to do it again for another position?

The background results for applicant live scans are returned to the Applicant Agency only. Fingerprints taken for applicant live scans are not stored in a database. Different agencies cannot legally share applicant’s background information, so a new live scan will be required for each new position that requires a fingerprint background check.

6. Does LPG Live Scan offer billing accounts?

Absolutely! See the Billing Account page for information and to apply.

7. Does LPG Live Scan offer discounts to non-profit organizations or large groups?

Yes, non-profit organizations and large groups receive a discount for mobile live scan or ink fingerprinting services. Discounts are calculated based on the size of the group. Email or call (510) 836-6011 for a Quote.

8. Can I request my own criminal history record review from the California DOJ?

Yes, individuals have the right to request a copy of their own criminal history record maintained by the California DOJ to review for accuracy and completeness. To receive a copy of the record, individuals must have a live scan done and pay $50.00 ($25 rolling fee + $25 DOJ processing fee). The California DOJ will mail the criminal history record to the address you indicate, typically within 30 days, however, some results may take longer. Any criminal history, or poor ridge detail (poor fingerprint quality), may cause further delays. Click here to be redirected to the California DOJ website for more information, and for the Request for Live Scan Service form.

Note: Criminal history records requested for an individual’s own review cannot be used for Visa/Immigration or foreign nation transactions. If you are seeking a background check for Visa/Immigration or any foreign nation transactions, see the California DOJ Visa/Immigration webpage.

9. What forms of identification are accepted?

As a primary form of photo identification, the following unexpired documents may be presented by an applicant when being fingerprinted:

  • State-issued Driver’s License or Identification Card
  • U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card
  • Federal Government Personal Identity Verification Card (PIV)
  • Uniformed Services Identification Card
  • Department of Defense Common Access Card
  • Foreign Passport with Appropriate Immigration Document(s)
  • USCIS – Permanent Resident Card (I-55I)
  • USCIS – Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
  • Federal, state or local government agency ID card with photograph
  • U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Card
  • Canadian Driver’s License

In the absence of a primary identification, applicants may provide at least two secondary identification documents, with at least two supporting documents. Click here for the full list.