Live Scan fingerprinting is coming soon to JC Notary & Signing. Join the notification list and we'll let you know the moment we go live.
Live Scan is California's electronic fingerprinting system. Instead of rolling ink on paper, a certified operator captures your fingerprints digitally on a glass platen, encodes them with your personal and application information, and transmits the package directly to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and, when required, the FBI. The result is faster, cleaner, and harder to reject than an old paper card.
Who needs it
Almost any background check tied to a California-issued license, permit, or position requires Live Scan. The most common reasons we'll see clients booking it:
- 01Employment background checks — school districts, healthcare facilities, financial institutions
- 02Professional licensing — real estate, insurance, cosmetology, nursing, contracting, security guard, notary public
- 03Foster care and adoption — both county and private agencies require it
- 04Volunteer positions involving children or vulnerable adults
- 05Concealed carry permit applications
- 06VISA / immigration-related background checks
- 07Some firearm purchases involving prior records
What you need to bring
- 01A completed Request for Live Scan Service form (BCIA 8016) — your requesting agency provides this. Don't show up without it.
- 02Current government-issued photo ID — driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport, or military ID.
- 03Payment for both the rolling fee and the DOJ/FBI processing fees (DOJ fee is $32 currently; FBI is $17 if required; rolling fees vary by operator).
How long it takes
The fingerprint capture itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes for most applicants. The results — meaning the background check report — go directly from DOJ to the requesting agency, not to you. Turnaround is typically a few business days, though it can stretch longer if your fingerprints aren't immediately readable and a re-roll is required, or if the FBI side of the check finds anything that needs follow-up.
Why mobile Live Scan is useful
Most Live Scan operators are walk-in storefronts. That works fine if you have time during business hours. It doesn't work as well if you're a working professional trying to fit a fingerprint appointment between meetings, an elderly applicant who has trouble traveling, an executive with limited availability, or a busy household trying to fingerprint multiple family members for an adoption. Mobile Live Scan brings the equipment to you — your home, office, or facility — and saves you the trip.
What's coming
We're in the process of becoming a Department of Justice–approved Live Scan operator. When the service launches, it will be available throughout Alameda and the East Bay alongside our existing notary and signing services. The same standard applies: prepared, on time, patient, and clear about what to expect.
If you'd like to be notified the moment we go live, send us a note through the contact page and we'll add you to the list.