If you’ve ever needed to undergo a background check for a job or other purpose, you may have heard of live scan. But exactly how long does live scan last? This is an important question for anyone who has undergone this type of background check or is considering doing so.
For those who are unfamiliar, live scan is a process that involves taking digital fingerprints and performing a criminal background check. This technology has largely replaced the traditional ink and paper method of taking fingerprints. Many employers, government agencies, and other organizations require live scan as part of their screening process.
So, back to our original question: How long does live scan last? It’s important to note that the answer can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the reason for the background check and the state in which it was performed. However, in most cases, the results of a live scan remain valid for up to two years. This means that if you’ve undergone live scan within the past two years, you likely won’t need to undergo the process again for a new background check.
What is Live Scan?
Live Scan is a type of background check commonly used in the United States. It is a process that involves electronic fingerprinting, which is then compared to various criminal databases to verify an individual’s criminal history. It is used to check the backgrounds of employees and volunteers in fields such as education, healthcare, law enforcement, and finance to name a few.
Many states now require individuals to undergo Live Scan background checks to obtain certain licenses or permits, including real estate agents, teachers, and nurses. In some cases, employers may also request that their employees undergo Live Scan checks.
The process of Live Scan is relatively simple. An individual goes to a Live Scan location where their fingerprints are taken electronically. The prints are then transmitted to a state or federal agency for analysis. Once the agency completes the check, the results are sent to the requesting agency or employer.
How Long Does a Live Scan Typically Take?
Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting process used in the United States to check a person’s criminal records. It is becoming increasingly popular among employers and government agencies for background check purposes. However, the time it takes to get a Live Scan done can vary depending on several factors, such as the level of clearance required, the number of fingerprints needed, the quality of fingerprints, and the workload of the Live Scan location.
- Level of clearance required: The higher the level of clearance required, the longer it takes to complete the Live Scan process as more extensive background checks are conducted.
- Number of fingerprints needed: If more than one fingerprint is required, the time taken to complete the Live Scan process may be slightly longer than usual.
- Quality of fingerprints: If the fingerprints are smudged or unclear, the time taken to complete the Live Scan process may be longer as you may need to redo the fingerprinting process.
The average time it takes to complete a Live Scan process is approximately 30 minutes. However, this does not include the time required to fill out the necessary paperwork or complete the background check. Depending on the workload of the Live Scan location, the time it takes to complete the process can take between half an hour to a few hours.
It is recommended to schedule an appointment with the Live Scan location beforehand to avoid potentially long wait times. If the purpose of getting a Live Scan is for employment or licensing purposes, it is best to inquire with the agency or employer on the specific requirements and timeline.
What is the process of conducting a Live Scan?
A Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting process that has replaced the traditional method of ink and roll fingerprinting. It is used by government agencies, employers, and organizations to conduct background checks and identify individuals for various purposes. The Live Scan process is conducted by a trained and certified technician who captures fingerprint images using a digital scanner.
- The process of conducting a Live Scan involves the following steps:
- Step 1: Schedule an appointment with a certified Live Scan provider
- Step 2: Fill out the necessary paperwork and provide identification
- Step 3: Have your fingerprints electronically scanned by the Live Scan technician
- Step 4: Submit the Live Scan form with your scanned fingerprints to the appropriate agency or organization
The Live Scan process typically takes 10-15 minutes and the results are usually available within 72 hours. However, depending on the agency or organization requiring the Live Scan, it may take longer to receive the results.
In order to conduct a Live Scan, it is important to find a certified Live Scan provider. These providers are authorized by the state and federal government to perform Live Scans and transmit the fingerprint images to the appropriate agencies. It is important to verify the certification of the Live Scan provider before scheduling an appointment to ensure the accuracy and validity of the results.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Quick and easy process | May require additional fees depending on the agency or organization |
| Accurate and reliable results | May take longer to receive results depending on the agency or organization |
| Eliminates the need for messy ink and roll fingerprints | May not be available in all areas |
The Live Scan process has revolutionized the way in which background checks are conducted. It is a quick, easy, and effective method for identifying individuals and ensuring the safety of organizations and communities. By understanding the process and utilizing certified providers, individuals and organizations can ensure the accuracy and validity of their background check results.
What are the reasons for getting a Live Scan?
Live Scan is becoming increasingly popular among employers and organizations as a way to conduct background checks on prospective employees, volunteers, and licensees. It is a quick and convenient way to ensure the safety and security of the workplace, customers, and general public. Here are some of the most common reasons for getting a Live Scan:
- Employment: Many employers require job applicants to undergo a Live Scan as part of the hiring process. This is especially true for positions that involve working with vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities.
- Licensure: Many professions require a license to practice legally, and Live Scan is often required as part of the licensing process. This includes professions such as nurses, doctors, teachers, and real estate agents, among others.
- Volunteering: Organizations that work with children or the elderly may require volunteers to undergo a Live Scan as a way to ensure that they do not have a criminal record that could pose a risk to vulnerable populations.
- Personal Reasons: Some people choose to get a Live Scan for personal reasons, such as obtaining a copy of their own criminal record or making sure their background check is clean before applying for a job or volunteering.
How Long Does Live Scan Last?
The results of a Live Scan are usually available within 3-5 days, and the report is valid for 30-90 days depending on the purpose of the scan. For example, if you are applying for a job, the report may be valid for 30 days. If you are applying for a professional license, the report may be valid for up to 90 days. However, it is ultimately the decision of the requesting agency or employer as to how long they will accept a Live Scan report. It is important to check with the requesting agency or employer to determine the specific requirements.
How is Live Scan different from fingerprinting?
Live scan and fingerprinting are two methods of obtaining biometric information from individuals, but they differ in several ways.
- Live scan captures digital fingerprints, whereas traditional fingerprinting captures inked fingerprints on paper.
- Live scan is a more modern technology that captures fingerprints electronically and sends them directly to the Department of Justice (DOJ), whereas fingerprinting requires physical transportation of the paper prints to the DOJ.
- Live scan is typically much faster than fingerprinting, as the DOJ can receive and process the electronic prints much more quickly than inked prints that must be physically transported.
Despite these differences, both live scan and traditional fingerprinting are widely used by government agencies, employers, and other organizations for a variety of purposes, including background checks, employment screening, and criminal investigations.
What types of information can be obtained from a Live Scan?
A Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting process that provides a detailed background check for various purposes such as employment, licensing, and volunteering. It captures an individual’s fingerprints and submits them electronically to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for analysis. Through this process, Live Scan can uncover a range of information about a person. Here are some of the types of information that can be obtained from a Live Scan:
- Criminal history: Live Scan can reveal an individual’s criminal history, including any convictions, warrants, or pending cases. This information can help employers and organizations make informed decisions about an individual’s suitability for a particular role or activity.
- Employment history: Depending on the level of background check application, Live Scan can also provide information related to an individual’s past employment history, such as the names of previous employers and the dates of employment.
- Licensing information: Live Scan can help verify whether an individual has the appropriate license to practice in a particular profession or work in a certain field. For example, people seeking to work as nurses, teachers, security guards or child care providers may need to undergo a Live Scan to ensure that they have the required licensing and clearances.
To get a clearer understanding of the information that can be obtained through Live Scan, below is a table outlining the types of background checks that are conducted and the corresponding information that the checks can reveal:
| Type of Background Check | Information that can be Obtained |
|---|---|
| Criminal History Check | Conviction and arrest record information maintained by DOJ. |
| Child Abuse Central Index Check | Records related to individuals accused of child abuse or neglect. |
| Mental Health Check | Relevant mental health history maintained by the DOJ. |
| Employment History Check | Employment and related history may include discrepancies. |
| License and Credential Verification Check | Verification of current licensure or credential information with the licensing agency. |
Overall, Live Scan is a valuable tool that helps individuals and organizations make informed decisions about hiring and other important activities. With the information provided through Live Scan, employers and organizations can protect their employees, customers, and stakeholders from potential harm.
What is the cost associated with conducting a Live Scan?
When it comes to conducting a Live Scan, there are a few costs associated with the process. Below we will break down the different fees and costs that you may encounter when obtaining a Live Scan:
- Fingerprint Rolling Fee: This fee is charged by the Live Scan location where you will be getting your fingerprints taken. Prices vary depending on the location, but generally range from $15-$35 per individual.
- DOJ Criminal Record Check: The California Department of Justice charges $32 for the criminal record check that will be run with your Live Scan submission. This fee is subject to change and may be different in other states.
- FBI Criminal Record Check: If you are required to have an FBI background check in addition to the DOJ check, there will be an additional fee of $17. This fee is also subject to change.
- Additional Fees: Depending on your situation, there may be additional fees charged by the requesting agency or employer. These fees vary widely and may include processing fees, certification fees, and more.
It is important to note that these fees can add up quickly, especially if you require multiple Live Scans or if you need to obtain both a DOJ and FBI criminal record check. However, compared to the potential consequences of not completing a required Live Scan, the cost is generally a small price to pay.
Below is a table summarizing the different costs associated with conducting a Live Scan in California:
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fingerprint Rolling Fee | $15-$35 |
| DOJ Criminal Record Check | $32 |
| FBI Criminal Record Check | $17 |
| Additional Fees | Variable |
Overall, while the cost of obtaining a Live Scan may seem daunting, it is a necessary step in many industries and job positions. It is important to budget accordingly and ensure that you are completing all necessary Live Scans to avoid any potential issues down the road.
How accurate is a Live Scan in obtaining information?
A Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting technology used for background checks. It’s a reliable and highly accurate way of capturing data in a criminal database. The accuracy of Live Scan depends on various factors such as the quality of the fingerprints, the quality of the system being used, and the expertise of the person processing the fingerprints.
- The quality of the fingerprints: it can make or break the accuracy of the Live Scan. Inaccurate or faint prints could lead to false positives and negatives. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that the prints are legible and clearly captured.
- The quality of the system: newer and advanced systems offer better results than older ones. The updated systems come with advanced software that helps to enhance the quality of the prints and reduce the possibility of errors.
- The expertise of the personnel processing the fingerprints: trained professionals are better equipped to analyze and identify prints with clarity, which leads to accurate results.
Moreover, Live Scan technology is effective in obtaining accurate information, which includes but not limited to:
- Criminal history, including convictions and arrests
- Warrants
- Court orders
- Sex offender registry matches
- FBI and Department of Justice background checks
The technology used in Live Scan is constantly evolving, bringing greater accuracy and efficiency to the process. The information the system captures is sent through a secure network, making it more convenient and accessible for employers, agencies, and organizations worldwide.
| Benefits of Live Scan |
|---|
| High accuracy in capturing and interpreting fingerprints. |
| Time-saving – results could be received in as little as 24 hours. |
| Safe and secure – ensures sensitive personal information is not shared with unauthorized persons. |
| The variety of uses – from employment screening to licensing to firearm permits. |
In conclusion, Live Scan is incredibly accurate in obtaining valuable information. However, it’s essential to ensure that the prints captured are legible and correctly analyzed by trained professionals to reduce the possibility of errors. The benefits of Live Scan make it an essential tool in today’s world when background checks have become a fundamental component of employment and other services requiring a high level of trust and safety.
How can one obtain a copy of their Live Scan results?
After completing the Live Scan process, individuals may wonder how they can obtain a copy of their Live Scan results. Thankfully, obtaining a copy of your Live Scan results is a relatively easy process. Here are a few ways you can obtain a copy of your Live Scan results:
- Contact the requesting agency – if you completed the Live Scan as part of an employment or licensing application, the agency requesting the Live Scan will receive a copy of the results. They can provide you with a copy upon request.
- Request a copy from the Department of Justice – you can request a copy of your Live Scan results directly from the California Department of Justice. You will need to fill out a form and provide your fingerprints again, as they do not keep a copy of your fingerprints on file after processing the Live Scan.
- Request a copy from the Live Scan operator – the Live Scan operator who processed your fingerprints should be able to provide you with a copy of your results upon request.
It is important to note that Live Scan results are not the same as a criminal record. Depending on the type of Live Scan performed, the results may only show information related to employment or licensing eligibility. If you need a copy of your criminal record, you will need to request that separately from the California Department of Justice.
If you have any additional questions or concerns about obtaining a copy of your Live Scan results, reach out to the agency requesting the Live Scan or the California Department of Justice for guidance.
What are the potential consequences of a failed Live Scan?
Live Scan is a widely used process in the United States for background checks of individuals. A failed Live Scan means that an individual’s background check does not meet the required standards. This can have severe consequences for the individual, such as:
- Rejection of job applications: Many employers require potential employees to undergo a Live Scan background check before hiring them. A failed Live Scan may mean that the employer does not offer the job to you.
- Legal consequences: A failed Live Scan can result in legal consequences for individuals who are applying for licenses or certifications. If you are applying for a professional license, your application may be rejected, and you may have to face legal actions related to your background history.
- Immigration and naturalization issues: A failed Live Scan can create problems for people who are applying for visas, citizenship, green cards, or other immigration-related benefits. Failed Live Scan results may lead to delays in the processing of applications or rejection of applications altogether.
In addition to the above, a failed Live Scan often reflects poorly on the individual’s character and can lead to embarrassment and social stigma. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the consequences of a failed Live Scan and take necessary steps to address them.
FAQs: How Long Does Live Scan Last?
- What is Live Scan?
- How long does it take to complete the Live Scan process?
- How long does it take to receive the results?
- How long are Live Scan records kept?
- Can I use my Live Scan results for multiple purposes?
- Do I need to complete a new Live Scan if I change jobs?
- How can I check the status of my Live Scan results?
Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting technology that captures your fingerprints and other information to conduct a background check. It is widely used for employment, licensing, and other purposes that require a criminal history check.
The time it takes to complete the Live Scan process varies depending on the location and the number of applicants being scanned. Generally, it takes about 10-15 minutes to capture fingerprints and complete the paperwork.
The results of a Live Scan background check can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks depending on the agency conducting the check and the type of investigation you are undergoing. Some background checks are completed within 3-5 business days while others can take up to 30 days or more.
The length of time that Live Scan records are kept varies by state and agency. In California, Live Scan records are kept for up to three years.
It depends on the agency or organization requesting the background check. Some agencies will accept Live Scan results for different purposes, while others require a new scan for each application.
It depends on the employer and the type of job you are applying for. Some employers require a new Live Scan for each job or assignment, while others accept previous scans if they were completed within a certain time frame.
You can check the status of your Live Scan results by contacting the agency or organization that requested the background check.
Thanks for Reading!
We hope that the FAQs above have answered your questions about how long Live Scan lasts. Remember, the timeframe for Live Scan results varies depending on the agency, purpose, and state. If you have further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the agency or organization conducting your background check. Thanks for reading and we hope to see you again soon!