Live Scan fingerprinting is a required step for many professional licenses, jobs, volunteer roles, and legal procedures in California. If you’re in Newport Beach and need to complete a Live Scan, showing up prepared can help ensure that your appointment is smooth, fast, and successful.
In this guide, you’ll learn what to bring, how to avoid common mistakes, and what to expect before, during, and after your Live Scan appointment—so you don’t waste time or need to reschedule.
Step 1: Get Your Live Scan Form
The “Request for Live Scan Service” form (BCIA 8016) is the most important item you’ll need to bring to your appointment. This form is issued by the agency requesting your background check—such as a licensing board, employer, school, or volunteer organization.
It contains essential information like:
- The ORI number (identifies the requesting agency)
- Your job title or license type
- Which background checks are required (DOJ, FBI, or both)
- A billing code if your employer is covering the cost
Without this form, the Live Scan provider cannot process your fingerprints.
📌 Tip: If your agency didn’t give you this form, ask for it before booking your appointment. You can’t proceed without it.
Step 2: Bring a Valid Photo ID
You’ll need to show a valid, government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms of ID include:
- California driver’s license or ID
- U.S. passport
- Military ID
- Green card (Permanent Resident Card)
- Out-of-state driver’s license (must be current and readable)
Your ID must not be expired. If you’re unsure whether your ID is acceptable, call the Live Scan provider in advance to confirm.
Step 3: Know the Fees
Live Scan fingerprinting includes two types of fees:
- Rolling fee – Charged by the Live Scan provider (typically $20–$40)
- DOJ/FBI processing fees – Set by the government agency (ranging from $32 to $75 depending on the type of check)
Your requesting agency will let you know if you’re responsible for the fee or if they’ve arranged to pay it through a billing code.
💳 Most Newport Beach locations accept credit/debit cards, but some may only take cash or checks—so it’s a good idea to check ahead of time.
Step 4: Make an Appointment (if needed)
Some Newport Beach Live Scan providers offer walk-in service, while others require appointments. Booking ahead can save time, especially during busy seasons like summer, when many people are applying for school or job-related checks.
Look for a provider that:
- Has clear hours and availability
- Offers same-day or next-day service
- Can handle both DOJ and FBI submissions (if needed)
You can often schedule online or by phone in just a few minutes.
Step 5: Prepare Your Hands
This may sound minor, but your fingerprints need to be clear and scannable, or they may be rejected by the DOJ or FBI. To help the scanner read your prints accurately:
- Stay hydrated the day before (dry hands = poor prints)
- Don’t apply lotion or oil to your hands the day of your appointment
- Wash your hands before arriving to remove any residue
If you have worn or damaged fingerprints (due to age, work, or medical conditions), let the technician know in advance—they may need to take extra care.
Step 6: Arrive a Few Minutes Early
Getting to your appointment a bit early gives you time to:
- Complete any paperwork
- Confirm your ID and form are in order
- Ask the technician questions before scanning begins
Most Live Scan appointments take 10 to 15 minutes, but it’s best to allow a little extra time just in case there’s a short wait.
Step 7: Get Your ATI Number
After your fingerprints are captured, the technician will give you a copy of your completed Live Scan form, which includes your ATI number (Applicant Tracking Identifier).
This number is your proof that the fingerprints were submitted, and it allows you to check the status of your background check online via the California DOJ website.
📌 Pro tip: Don’t lose this form. Agencies may ask for your ATI number if they don’t receive results on time.
Bonus: What If You Make a Mistake?
If your fingerprints are rejected due to poor quality or a form error, you’ll usually be contacted by the requesting agency and asked to return for a free resubmission. This is rare, but it can happen—so always double-check your documents before your appointment.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for your Live Scan appointment in Newport Beach is simple if you know what to expect. Bring the right documents, prepare your hands, and make sure the provider you choose offers the services you need. With the proper preparation, you’ll be in and out quickly, and your background check will be on its way for fast processing.
If you’re still unsure which type of fingerprinting you need or what your form should include, it’s always a good idea to check with the agency that’s requesting the Live Scan. We recommend Newport Beach Livescan.
