What Happens After Your Fingerprints Are Submitted?

If you’re getting fingerprinted for a professional license, employment, volunteering, immigration, or another official purpose, you may wonder what happens once your fingerprints are submitted. Understanding the process can help you know what to expect and when you’ll receive your results.

Step 1: Your Fingerprints Are Captured

At your appointment, your fingerprints are collected using either a Live Scan fingerprint system or traditional ink fingerprint cards, depending on the requirements of the agency requesting the background check.

Our technicians verify that your prints are clear and complete before submission to help reduce the chance of rejection.

Step 2: The Fingerprints Are Submitted

Once your fingerprints are captured, they are securely transmitted or prepared according to the requesting agency’s requirements.

Depending on your application, fingerprints may be submitted to:

• The FBI
• The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
• Another state agency
• A licensing or regulatory board

Some applications require fingerprints to be submitted electronically, while others require printed FD-258 fingerprint cards to be mailed.

Step 3: Background Check Processing

The receiving agency compares your fingerprints against its criminal history databases to verify your identity and determine whether any reportable criminal records exist.

Processing times vary depending on:

• The agency requesting the background check
• The type of application
• Current processing volume
• Whether additional review is required

Many electronic submissions are processed within a few business days, while others may take several weeks.

Step 4: Results Are Sent to the Requesting Agency

In most cases, fingerprinting providers do not receive your background check results.

Instead, the results are sent directly to the employer, licensing board, government agency, or organization that requested the fingerprint-based background check.

If you submitted fingerprints for an FBI Identity History Summary request, your results are delivered according to the method selected during your application.

What If My Fingerprints Are Rejected?

Occasionally, fingerprints may be rejected because they cannot be read accurately. This can happen due to:

• Dry or worn fingerprints
• Scars or damaged skin
• Excess moisture
• Movement during scanning

If your fingerprints are rejected, the requesting agency will usually provide instructions for submitting a new set of fingerprints. Our technicians use high-quality equipment and proper capture techniques to minimize the risk of rejection.

How Can I Help Ensure Good Fingerprints?

Before your appointment:

• Moisturize dry hands the day before.
• Avoid cuts or abrasions if possible.
• Remove dirt, grease, or lotions immediately before fingerprinting.
• Relax your hands during the scan.

These simple steps can improve fingerprint quality and help avoid delays.

We’re Here to Help

Whether you need fingerprinting for employment, licensing, immigration, adoption, volunteering, or personal background checks, our experienced team makes the process fast, secure, and professional.

If you have questions about your application or are unsure which fingerprinting service you need, contact us before your appointment. We’re happy to help guide you through the process.