FD-258 Fingerprint Cards: Complete Guide
If you’ve been asked to submit fingerprints on an FD-258 Fingerprint Card, you may be wondering what it is, why it’s required, and how to complete it correctly. The FD-258 is one of the most widely used fingerprint cards in the United States and is accepted by many federal, state, and international agencies.
In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the FD-258 fingerprint card and how to ensure your fingerprints are accepted the first time.
What Is an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?
The FD-258 Fingerprint Card is the official fingerprint card developed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It is used to record rolled and flat fingerprints for identity verification and criminal history background checks.
Unlike electronic Live Scan fingerprinting, the FD-258 is a physical card that contains your fingerprints, personal information, and signature.
Many agencies still require FD-258 cards, especially when electronic fingerprinting is not available or accepted.
When Is an FD-258 Fingerprint Card Required?
FD-258 fingerprint cards are commonly used for:
- FBI Identity History Summary (Personal Record Review)
- Out-of-state professional licensing
- Federal employment
- Immigration and visa applications
- Adoption and foster care
- Attorney and legal requirements
- Foreign travel, work permits, or residency applications
- Personal record requests
- Other government background checks
Always follow the instructions provided by the agency requesting your fingerprints, as requirements can vary.
What Information Is Included on an FD-258 Card?
An FD-258 fingerprint card typically includes:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Sex
- Height and weight
- Eye and hair color
- Race
- Citizenship
- Signature
- Fingerprint impressions for all ten fingers
- Rolled and flat (plain) fingerprint impressions
- The reason for fingerprinting
- The requesting agency’s information, when applicable
Providing accurate information helps prevent processing delays.
Live Scan vs. FD-258 Fingerprint Cards
Many applicants wonder whether they need Live Scan fingerprinting or an FD-258 fingerprint card.
Live Scan is an electronic fingerprinting method in which fingerprints are captured digitally and submitted electronically to the requesting agency.
FD-258 fingerprint cards are printed cards containing inked or electronically printed fingerprints that are mailed or submitted to the requesting organization.
The correct option depends entirely on the agency’s requirements.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
To help ensure high-quality fingerprints:
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID.
- Bring any fingerprint cards or paperwork provided by the requesting agency.
- Moisturize dry hands for a few days before your appointment if needed.
- Avoid scheduling your appointment if your fingertips have fresh cuts or injuries.
- Verify the mailing instructions if you’re responsible for sending the completed card.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incorrectly completed fingerprint cards can delay your application.
Common mistakes include:
- Missing personal information
- Incorrect agency information
- Smudged or incomplete fingerprints
- Using the wrong fingerprint card
- Damaged or folded fingerprint cards
- Forgetting to sign where required
Working with an experienced fingerprint technician helps reduce these risks.
Can Fingerprints on an FD-258 Card Be Rejected?
Yes. Like electronic fingerprints, FD-258 fingerprint cards may be rejected if the fingerprint impressions are unclear or incomplete.
Common reasons include:
- Dry or worn fingerprints
- Excessive ink
- Smudging
- Incomplete rolled impressions
- Poor fingerprint quality
Professional fingerprinting services use proper techniques to help ensure your cards meet agency standards.
Why Choose a Professional Fingerprinting Service?
While fingerprint cards may seem simple, proper technique is essential for producing clear, readable fingerprints.
Our trained technicians have experience completing FD-258 fingerprint cards for a wide range of applications. We carefully capture high-quality fingerprints, verify your information, and help ensure your fingerprint cards are completed accurately before you leave.
Our goal is to make the fingerprinting process quick, accurate, and stress-free.
Schedule Your FD-258 Fingerprinting Appointment Today
If you need fingerprints on an FD-258 card for employment, licensing, immigration, adoption, personal record reviews, or any other official purpose, we’re here to help.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment and receive professional fingerprinting services you can trust.
