How Long Does Fingerprinting Take?

If you’re preparing for a background check, job application, licensing process, or immigration paperwork, you might be wondering: how long does fingerprinting actually take?

The short answer: the appointment itself is usually very fast — often 10 to 20 minutes.
But the total time can vary depending on the type of fingerprinting and how prepared you are.

How Long Does a Fingerprinting Appointment Take?

In most cases, fingerprinting is a quick in-and-out process:

• Live Scan fingerprinting: 10–15 minutes
• FD-258 fingerprint cards: 10–20 minutes
• Multiple cards or special cases: 20–30 minutes

This includes identity verification, paperwork, fingerprint capture, and quality check.

What Happens During Fingerprinting?

Even though it’s fast, there are a few important steps:

1. Check-in and ID verification

You’ll be asked to present a valid government-issued photo ID.

2. Paperwork review

If your fingerprints are for a license, job, or agency, the technician will check your forms (including ORI number if required).

3. Fingerprint capture

Your fingerprints are taken using either:

• Electronic Live Scan system, or
• Ink or printed FD-258 fingerprint card

The technician guides you finger by finger to make sure everything is captured correctly.

4. Quality check

Before you leave, the technician reviews the prints to ensure they are clear and readable (when applicable).

What Can Make Fingerprinting Take Longer?

Most appointments are quick, but a few things can slow it down:

• Very dry or worn fingerprints
• Cuts, peeling, or skin damage on fingertips
• Missing paperwork or ORI number
• First-time applicants unfamiliar with the process
• Multiple fingerprint cards required
• Poor-quality prints requiring re-capture

Experienced technicians usually help minimize delays by adjusting technique and repeating scans if needed.

How to Make Your Appointment Faster

You can speed up the process by preparing in advance:

• Bring your valid photo ID
• Bring all required forms and instructions
• Confirm your ORI number (if applicable)
• Arrive a few minutes early
• Keep hands clean and natural (avoid heavy lotions right before)

A little preparation can save time and reduce the chance of reprints.

Does the Background Check Take the Same Time?

No — the fingerprint appointment is only step one.

After your fingerprints are submitted, processing time depends on:

• The agency requesting the background check
• Whether it’s Live Scan or FD-258 card submission
• FBI or state processing timelines
• Application type (employment, licensing, immigration, etc.)

While the appointment takes minutes, results can take anywhere from a few hours to several days or longer depending on the agency.

Why Professional Fingerprinting Matters

A professional fingerprinting service helps ensure:

• Faster appointment times
• Fewer errors and rejections
• High-quality fingerprint capture
• Proper submission to the correct agency

This can save you time and prevent delays in your application process.

Final Answer

In most cases, fingerprinting takes about 10–20 minutes in person, making it one of the quickest steps in your background check process.

With the right preparation and an experienced provider, the process is simple, efficient, and stress-free.

Book Your Fingerprinting Appointment

If you need Live Scan or FD-258 fingerprinting, we’re here to help. Schedule your appointment today for fast and professional service.