Common Fingerprinting Myths

Ffingerprinting is a routine part of many licensing, employment, and background check processes. Despite how common it has become, there are still many misconceptions about what fingerprinting involves, why it’s required, and what happens to your information.

If you’re preparing for your first fingerprinting appointment, understanding the facts can help you feel more confident. Let’s clear up some of the most common fingerprinting myths.

Myth #1: Fingerprinting Means You’re Suspected of a Crime

Fact: This is one of the biggest misconceptions.

Today, fingerprinting is required for many legitimate purposes that have nothing to do with criminal investigations. Millions of people are fingerprinted each year for employment, professional licensing, volunteer work, immigration, adoption, education, and healthcare.

Common reasons for fingerprinting include:

• Professional licensing
• Employment background checks
• Teaching certifications
• Healthcare licensing
• Child care employment
• Real estate licensing
• Security guard licensing
• Immigration applications
• Volunteer positions
• Personal record reviews

For most people, fingerprinting is simply a standard administrative requirement.

Myth #2: Fingerprinting Takes a Long Time

Fact: Most fingerprinting appointments take only 10 to 20 minutes.

During your appointment, the technician will:

• Verify your identity
• Review your paperwork
• Capture your fingerprints
• Check the quality of the prints before submission whenever possible

The appointment itself is usually quick and straightforward.

Myth #3: Fingerprinting Is Painful

Fact: Fingerprinting is completely painless.

Whether your fingerprints are captured using Live Scan technology or an FD-258 fingerprint card, the process simply involves placing your fingers on a scanner or having them rolled onto a fingerprint card.

There are no needles, no ink stains with Live Scan, and no discomfort.

Myth #4: Only Criminals Have Fingerprints on File

Fact: Many law-abiding individuals have fingerprints on file for professional or legal reasons.

Teachers, nurses, physicians, pharmacists, child care workers, security guards, insurance agents, real estate professionals, mortgage loan originators, government employees, and many other professionals are fingerprinted as part of their careers.

Fingerprinting is about identity verification—not suspicion.

Myth #5: All Fingerprinting Is Done with Ink

Fact: While ink fingerprinting is still used in some situations, many agencies now require Live Scan fingerprinting, which captures fingerprints electronically.

Live Scan offers several advantages:

• Faster submission
• Higher-quality images
• Reduced chance of rejected fingerprints
• Secure electronic transmission

Some agencies still require fingerprints on an FD-258 fingerprint card, especially for federal or out-of-state applications.

Myth #6: If You’ve Been Fingerprinted Once, You’ll Never Need It Again

Fact: Many employers and licensing boards require a new fingerprint submission for each application.

Even if you’ve previously completed fingerprinting, another agency may require new fingerprints because:

• A different background check is needed.
• State laws require a new submission.
• A new employer has separate screening requirements.
• Your previous fingerprints cannot be reused.

Always follow the instructions provided by the requesting agency.

Myth #7: Fingerprints Are Always Accepted

Fact: Occasionally, fingerprints can be rejected if the image quality isn’t clear enough.

Common reasons include:

• Dry skin
• Worn fingerprints
• Cuts or injuries
• Excess moisture
• Smudged prints

An experienced fingerprint technician can often help reduce the likelihood of rejection by using proper techniques and reviewing fingerprint quality before submission.

Myth #8: Fingerprinting Is Only for Government Jobs

Fact: Fingerprinting is required across many industries.

Employers and licensing boards commonly require fingerprint-based background checks for careers in:

• Healthcare
• Education
• Financial services
• Child care
• Real estate
• Insurance
• Pharmacy
• Security
• Government
• Nonprofit organizations

As background screening becomes more common, fingerprinting continues to play an important role in protecting the public.

Myth #9: The Fingerprinting Process Is Complicated

Fact: Fingerprinting is one of the simplest steps in most application processes.

A professional fingerprinting provider will guide you through every step, including:

• Reviewing your documents
• Verifying your identity
• Capturing your fingerprints
• Answering your questions
• Ensuring your fingerprints are submitted correctly

Most appointments are completed in less than 20 minutes.

Why Professional Fingerprinting Matters

Choosing an experienced fingerprinting provider helps ensure:

• Accurate fingerprint capture
• Proper document review
• High-quality fingerprint images
• Fewer delays
• Reduced risk of rejected submissions
• A fast and professional experience

Whether you’re applying for a license, starting a new job, or completing another background check, working with trained professionals makes the process easier and more efficient.

Schedule Your Fingerprinting Appointment Today

If you need Live Scan fingerprinting or FD-258 fingerprint cards for employment, licensing, immigration, volunteering, or another official purpose, we’re here to help.

Our experienced technicians provide fast, accurate, and professional fingerprinting services to help you complete your background check with confidence. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.