FD-258 Fingerprint Cards vs Live Scan for FBI Background Checks: What You Need to Know

When an employer, licensing agency, government organization, or professional board requires an FBI background check, fingerprints are often an essential part of the process. But applicants are sometimes given a choice between submitting traditional fingerprints on an FD-258 fingerprint card and having their fingerprints captured electronically through Live Scan.

Understanding the difference between these two fingerprinting methods can save time, prevent rejected submissions, and help ensure that your FBI background check is processed according to the requirements of the organization requesting it.

Although both methods are designed to capture fingerprints for identification and background screening purposes, they are not simply interchangeable options in every situation. The correct method depends on who is requesting the background check, how the fingerprints must be submitted, the applicable federal or state requirements, and whether the receiving agency accepts electronic or hard-copy fingerprint submissions.

This guide explains the differences between FD-258 fingerprint cards and Live Scan fingerprinting, how each process works, the advantages and limitations of both methods, and what applicants should consider before scheduling a fingerprinting appointment.

What Is an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?

The FD-258 is an FBI applicant fingerprint card used for certain civil fingerprint submissions. The FBI describes the FD-258 as a card used by law enforcement agencies for fingerprinting applicants for law enforcement positions, by authorized state and local government officials for employment, licensing, and permits, by U.S. government agencies and other entities when required by federal law, and in certain other federally authorized circumstances. The official FBI FD-258 form contains instructions and information intended to help prevent processing delays or rejections.

The card contains spaces for biographical information and fingerprint impressions. Traditionally, a trained fingerprint technician uses ink or another approved method to capture the applicant’s fingerprints on the card. Once completed, the card can be submitted according to the instructions provided by the requesting organization.

For applicants, one of the most important points to understand is that having an FD-258 card completed is only one part of the background check process. The completed fingerprint card generally needs to be submitted through the appropriate channel and accompanied by the required information, authorization, and fees.

What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting?

Live Scan fingerprinting is an electronic method of capturing fingerprints using a specialized fingerprint scanner. Instead of placing ink impressions on a physical card, the applicant places their fingers on the scanner, which captures digital images of the fingerprints.

The electronic fingerprint data can then be transmitted through an authorized system or handled according to the requirements of the agency requesting the background check. The exact submission process varies depending on the state, agency, employer, licensing authority, or other organization requesting the fingerprints.

Live Scan has become an important part of modern fingerprint-based background screening because digital fingerprint capture can reduce some of the problems associated with manually recording and physically transporting fingerprint cards.

The FBI has also described the evolution of fingerprint processing from paper-based systems toward highly automated biometric systems. Today, the FBI’s Next Generation Identification system supports digital fingerprint identification and other biometric capabilities.

FD-258 vs. Live Scan: The Basic Difference

The simplest way to understand the difference is to think about how the fingerprints are captured and delivered.

• FD-258: Fingerprints are recorded on a physical fingerprint card and submitted according to the instructions of the requesting agency.
• Live Scan: Fingerprints are captured electronically using a specialized scanner and processed or transmitted through an authorized electronic workflow.

Both methods can be used in fingerprint-based background screening situations, but the appropriate method depends on the specific requirements of the background check.

It is therefore a mistake to assume that Live Scan is always better or that an FD-258 card is always necessary. The requesting organization should determine which type of fingerprint submission it accepts.

How the FD-258 Fingerprint Card Process Works

If you have been instructed to submit an FD-258 fingerprint card, the process generally involves several stages.

1. Obtain the Correct Fingerprint Card

First, determine whether the requesting organization has provided a specific FD-258 card or instructions regarding the fingerprint form. Details such as an ORI number, agency information, contributor information, or other identifiers can be important to proper processing.

The FBI’s official FD-258 documentation provides specific instructions concerning the use of the card and the information that should be supplied.

2. Visit a Fingerprinting Professional

A trained fingerprint technician can capture your fingerprints on the card. Proper fingerprint placement and quality are important because unclear or incomplete impressions may result in rejection or require the applicant to submit a new set of fingerprints.

3. Complete the Required Information

The fingerprint card contains areas for identifying information and other details associated with the submission. Applicants should carefully review the instructions supplied by the requesting organization before completing these fields.

4. Submit the Fingerprint Card

Once the card is completed, it must be submitted through the appropriate process. Depending on the purpose of the background check, the card may be submitted directly or through an authorized channel.

For example, the FBI explains that individuals requesting an Identity History Summary may have fingerprints taken by a local, county, or state law enforcement agency, or by certain private fingerprinting services.

How the Live Scan Fingerprinting Process Works

Live Scan is generally more technology-driven because the fingerprint impressions are captured digitally rather than recorded directly onto a paper card.

1. Verify the Background Check Requirements

Before making an appointment, confirm that the agency requesting your background check accepts Live Scan and determine whether it has provided an ORI, authorization form, service code, or other identifying information.

2. Provide Identification

You will generally need an acceptable form of identification. The fingerprinting provider uses your identification and the information supplied by the requesting agency to create the fingerprint submission.

3. Have Your Fingerprints Digitally Captured

The technician uses a Live Scan device to capture your fingerprints electronically. The process does not normally involve traditional ink being applied to your fingers.

4. Review and Submit the Fingerprint Data

The technician verifies the information and fingerprint capture before the submission is processed according to the applicable workflow. Depending on the program, the electronic fingerprints may be transmitted to the appropriate state or federal system.

Which Is Better for an FBI Background Check?

There is no universal answer to whether an FD-258 fingerprint card or Live Scan is better. The correct option is the one accepted by the organization requesting your FBI background check.

For some applicants, Live Scan may provide a convenient electronic fingerprinting experience. For others, an FD-258 card may be specifically required because the requesting organization has provided a physical fingerprint card or has established a process for hard-copy submissions.

The FBI itself distinguishes between electronic submissions and fingerprint cards in its Identity History Summary process. For example, the FBI states that individuals submitting requests electronically may still need to complete the fingerprint portion of the process, and it provides instructions regarding acceptable fingerprint cards and fingerprinting locations.

For this reason, applicants should not schedule a fingerprinting appointment based solely on which method seems faster or more modern. The instructions from the requesting agency should come first.

Advantages of FD-258 Fingerprint Cards

Although paper fingerprint cards are an older technology, they remain useful for specific background check requirements.

Physical Documentation

An FD-258 provides a physical record of the fingerprint impressions. If an organization specifically requests a hard-copy fingerprint card, this format can be appropriate.

Useful When Electronic Submission Is Not Available

Not every fingerprinting situation is connected to an electronic submission system. A properly completed fingerprint card can provide an alternative when the applicable process requires physical fingerprints.

Can Be Used by Authorized Fingerprinting Providers

Private fingerprinting agencies and law enforcement organizations may provide fingerprint card services depending on their capabilities and the needs of the applicant.

Advantages of Live Scan Fingerprinting

Live Scan offers several practical advantages in situations where electronic fingerprint submission is accepted.

Digital Fingerprint Capture

Live Scan eliminates the need to place ink impressions directly onto a paper card. Instead, a specialized scanner captures digital fingerprint images.

Convenient Electronic Processing

When an authorized electronic submission pathway is available, digital fingerprint capture can simplify the movement of fingerprint information through the required processing system.

Immediate Quality Review

Electronic systems can provide technicians with tools to evaluate fingerprint images during the appointment. If an impression needs to be captured again, the technician can often address the problem before the applicant leaves.

Reduced Paper Handling

Because the fingerprints are captured electronically, Live Scan can reduce reliance on physical fingerprint cards, envelopes, and mailing procedures when the applicable program supports electronic transmission.

Why Fingerprint Quality Matters for FBI Background Checks

Regardless of whether fingerprints are captured on an FD-258 card or through Live Scan, fingerprint quality matters.

Fingerprint-based background checks depend on the ability of the receiving system to compare submitted fingerprints against records. Poor-quality impressions can make the process more difficult and may result in a rejection or request for another submission.

The FBI advises applicants whose fingerprints are repeatedly rejected to have multiple sets taken, preferably by a fingerprinting technician when available.

This is one reason choosing an experienced fingerprinting professional can be valuable. A technician familiar with fingerprint capture can help position the fingers correctly, identify problems with print quality, and follow the instructions associated with the required submission.

Does Live Scan Automatically Mean an FBI Background Check?

No. This is an important distinction.

Live Scan describes the method used to capture fingerprints. It does not automatically tell you where those fingerprints will be submitted or what type of background check will be performed.

A Live Scan appointment could be connected to a state background check, an FBI fingerprint-based check, professional licensing, employment screening, volunteer screening, or another authorized purpose, depending on the applicable program.

Similarly, having fingerprints placed on an FD-258 card does not by itself guarantee that the fingerprints will be submitted to the FBI. The fingerprint card must be associated with the appropriate authorized purpose and submission process.

Applicants should therefore focus on the instructions provided by the agency, employer, licensing board, or organization requesting the background check.

What Is an FBI Identity History Summary?

An FBI Identity History Summary is a record based on information connected to fingerprint submissions retained by the FBI. The FBI explains that an Identity History Summary is commonly referred to as a criminal history record, police background clearance, police or good conduct certificate, or “rap sheet.”

This is different from simply obtaining a local name-based background check. Fingerprint-based searches provide a biometric component that can help establish identity when fingerprints are submitted through an authorized process.

The FBI offers an Identity History Summary process for individuals requesting their own records, subject to its applicable requirements and fees.

FD-258 or Live Scan: Questions to Ask Before Your Appointment

Before scheduling a fingerprinting appointment, ask the organization requesting your background check a few important questions:

• Do I need an FD-258 fingerprint card or Live Scan?
• Is an FBI background check required?
• Is a state background check also required?
• Do you provide an ORI or other agency identifier?
• Is there a specific fingerprinting service code?
• Does the fingerprinting provider need to submit the fingerprints electronically?
• Do I need to bring a specific fingerprint card or authorization form?
• Are there special instructions for submitting the completed fingerprints?

Getting these answers before your appointment can help prevent one of the most frustrating fingerprinting problems: completing the wrong type of submission and having to start the process again.

Why Choosing an Experienced Fingerprinting Provider Matters

The fingerprinting appointment itself may seem straightforward, but accuracy is important. Small errors in personal information, fingerprint capture, forms, or submission instructions can create unnecessary delays.

An experienced fingerprinting provider can help applicants understand what is needed for the appointment, capture fingerprints carefully, and identify missing information before the submission is finalized.

However, a fingerprinting technician cannot determine the legal requirements of every background check on behalf of the requesting organization. The applicant should always bring the instructions provided by the employer, licensing agency, government organization, or other requesting entity.

FD-258 and Live Scan Are Different Tools for the Same Larger Process

The most useful way to compare FD-258 and Live Scan is not to think of them as competing background checks. They are different fingerprint capture and submission methods that may be used as part of a larger fingerprint-based screening process.

The FD-258 is a standardized FBI applicant fingerprint card used for authorized civil fingerprint submissions. Live Scan, by contrast, captures fingerprints electronically. Both can play an important role in identity verification and fingerprint-based background screening when used within the correct authorized process.

The right choice depends on the requirements of the organization requesting your fingerprints, the jurisdiction involved, and the submission pathway available for your particular background check.

Key Differences Between FD-258 Fingerprint Cards and Live Scan

Although both FD-258 fingerprint cards and Live Scan can be used to capture fingerprints for authorized background screening purposes, the practical experience can be quite different. Understanding those differences can help you prepare for your appointment and avoid submitting fingerprints through the wrong process.

This comparison illustrates why there is no universal winner. The method that is most convenient for one applicant may not be appropriate for another applicant whose employer, licensing board, or government agency has specified a particular submission method.

Which Fingerprinting Method Is Faster?

Live Scan can be faster from a processing and administrative standpoint when the requesting organization has an authorized electronic submission system. The fingerprint data can be captured digitally, reviewed during the appointment, and transmitted through the appropriate channel without waiting for a physical fingerprint card to arrive by mail.

However, applicants should distinguish between fingerprinting time and background check processing time. A fast fingerprinting appointment does not necessarily mean that the FBI or another agency will complete the background check immediately.

Processing times can depend on factors such as the type of request, submission method, agency workload, fingerprint quality, required verification, and whether additional information is necessary.

The FBI provides current processing information for its Identity History Summary service through its official resources, and applicants should consult those resources rather than relying on a guaranteed turnaround time from a fingerprinting provider.

Is Live Scan More Accurate Than an FD-258 Card?

It is tempting to assume that electronic fingerprinting is automatically more accurate than traditional fingerprint cards. The reality is more nuanced.

Fingerprint quality depends heavily on the applicant’s fingerprints, the technician’s technique, the condition of the fingers, the equipment being used, and the quality standards associated with the receiving system.

Live Scan offers technological advantages because the technician can view the captured digital images and may be able to identify quality problems immediately. A fingerprint card can also be completed successfully when a skilled technician follows the applicable procedures carefully.

The most important factor is therefore not simply whether the fingerprints are digital or ink-based. It is whether the fingerprints are captured correctly and submitted through the method required by the receiving agency.

Common Reasons Fingerprint Submissions May Be Rejected

A rejected fingerprint submission can be frustrating, particularly when an applicant is working toward an employment deadline, professional license, immigration-related requirement, volunteer position, or other time-sensitive objective.

Several issues can contribute to problems with fingerprint submissions.

Poor Fingerprint Quality

Faint, smudged, incomplete, or distorted impressions can make fingerprints difficult to process. Certain physical characteristics, including worn fingerprints, can also make obtaining clear impressions more challenging.

Incorrect Personal Information

Errors in names, dates of birth, identification numbers, or other required information can create problems during processing.

Wrong Fingerprinting Method

If an organization specifically requires an FD-258 card but the applicant completes an unrelated Live Scan submission, the electronic fingerprints may not satisfy the organization’s requirements.

The reverse can also be true. If an organization requires electronic Live Scan submission through a particular system, simply mailing an FD-258 card may not meet its requirements.

Missing Agency Information

Some background check programs require specific identifying information, such as an ORI or other agency-specific code. Applicants should bring all paperwork and instructions supplied by the requesting organization.

Using an Unapproved Submission Process

Not every fingerprinting provider or electronic platform is authorized to submit fingerprints for every type of background check. Applicants should confirm that their chosen provider can accommodate the exact requirements of their request.

What Should You Bring to a Fingerprinting Appointment?

Being prepared can make your appointment significantly easier. Before leaving for your fingerprinting appointment, review the instructions from the organization requesting the background check.

Depending on the situation, you may need to bring:

• A valid government-issued photo identification
• An FD-258 fingerprint card if one was provided or specifically required
• An authorization form or fingerprinting request form
• An ORI or agency identifier
• A service code or other program-specific information
• Payment for fingerprinting services
• Any additional documents identified by the requesting agency

Do not assume that a fingerprinting provider has all of this information automatically. The safest approach is to bring every document and instruction you received from the organization requesting the background check.

What If You Have Difficult-to-Capture Fingerprints?

Some people have fingerprints that are more difficult to capture clearly. This can happen because of age, frequent manual labor, certain occupations, naturally faint ridge patterns, dry skin, or other circumstances.

If your fingerprints are difficult to capture, tell the technician before the appointment begins. An experienced fingerprinting professional may be able to use appropriate techniques to improve the quality of the impressions.

However, no fingerprinting provider can guarantee that a submission will be accepted by the receiving agency. If fingerprints are rejected, the receiving agency may provide instructions regarding another submission.

The FBI specifically advises individuals who experience repeated fingerprint rejection to have multiple sets taken, preferably by a fingerprinting technician when possible. This highlights the importance of professional fingerprint capture when an applicant is concerned about fingerprint quality.

Can You Get an FD-258 Fingerprint Card From a Private Fingerprinting Service?

Many professional fingerprinting businesses offer fingerprint card services, although availability varies by provider. If you need an FD-258 card, ask the provider before scheduling whether they can complete the specific card required for your background check.

It is especially important to clarify this when an organization has given you a pre-printed card or specific instructions. Some providers may offer fingerprint cards but may not handle the subsequent submission process.

Ask whether the service includes only fingerprint capture or whether the provider also assists with the submission process. Understanding exactly what is included can prevent confusion later.

Can a Live Scan Provider Also Handle FD-258 Fingerprint Cards?

Some fingerprinting businesses offer both Live Scan and fingerprint card services. This can be particularly convenient because applicants can discuss their requirements with one provider before deciding which method is appropriate.

However, the provider should not be expected to determine the requirements of your background check without documentation. The requesting agency ultimately determines which submission method and information it requires.

If you are unsure whether you need Live Scan or an FD-258 card, contact the organization that requested the background check before your appointment.

Do FD-258 Cards and Live Scan Cost the Same?

Pricing varies by location, provider, fingerprinting method, and the services included with the appointment. A fingerprint card appointment may involve the cost of fingerprint capture and potentially additional mailing or processing expenses.

Live Scan pricing can include fingerprint capture, electronic processing, transmission fees, and other charges depending on the program.

Because pricing structures vary considerably, applicants should request the total price before the appointment and ask whether any additional fees apply.

More importantly, price should not be the only factor. A low-cost fingerprinting appointment is not necessarily a good value if the wrong fingerprinting method is used or the submission is rejected because required information was missing.

How to Choose the Right Fingerprinting Service

Once you know which fingerprinting method is required, the next step is finding a provider that can complete the appointment properly.

Consider the following factors when comparing fingerprinting providers:

Experience

Look for a provider with experience handling fingerprint cards, Live Scan submissions, and background check requirements relevant to your situation.

Convenient Appointment Times

Flexible scheduling can be particularly helpful for professionals, students, applicants with full-time jobs, and individuals facing application deadlines.

Clear Pricing

Ask for transparent pricing before your appointment. Find out whether the quoted price includes fingerprint capture, card completion, electronic transmission, and any applicable processing fees.

Professional Equipment

If you need Live Scan, confirm that the provider uses appropriate electronic fingerprinting equipment and follows the submission requirements associated with your background check.

Attention to Detail

A professional fingerprint technician should carefully review your identification, forms, fingerprint quality, and other required information before completing the appointment.

FD-258 vs Live Scan for Different Situations

The best fingerprinting method often becomes clearer when you look at the purpose of the background check.

Professional Licensing

Healthcare professionals, educators, contractors, financial professionals, and other licensed workers may be required to complete fingerprint-based background checks. Licensing boards often provide very specific instructions regarding the acceptable fingerprinting method.

Always follow the licensing board’s instructions rather than choosing a method based solely on convenience.

Employment Background Checks

Employers may require fingerprint-based screening for positions involving sensitive information, vulnerable populations, financial responsibilities, government work, or regulated activities.

The employer or designated screening agency should explain whether Live Scan, an FD-258 card, or another process is required.

Government Applications

Government agencies may have detailed fingerprinting procedures and specific submission requirements. Applicants should carefully follow the instructions accompanying the application.

Personal FBI Record Requests

Individuals requesting their own FBI Identity History Summary should follow the FBI’s current instructions for submitting fingerprints. The FBI provides both electronic and mail-based options for Identity History Summary requests, subject to its current requirements. ([fbi.gov](https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/identity-history-summary-checks?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

How to Avoid Delays in Your FBI Background Check

While applicants cannot control every aspect of background check processing, several simple steps can reduce avoidable problems.

1. Read the requesting agency’s instructions carefully.
2. Confirm whether you need Live Scan or an FD-258 card.
3. Bring valid identification.
4. Bring all required forms and agency information.
5. Use an experienced fingerprint technician.
6. Review the completed information for errors.
7. Keep copies or records of your submission when appropriate.
8. Follow the receiving agency’s instructions for tracking or additional submissions.

Frequently Asked Questions About FD-258 and Live Scan

Is an FD-258 the same as Live Scan?

No. An FD-258 is a physical FBI applicant fingerprint card, while Live Scan is an electronic method of capturing fingerprints. They represent different ways of collecting and submitting fingerprint information.

Can Live Scan be used for an FBI background check?

It can be used when the specific background check program and authorized submission process accept electronic fingerprint transmission. You should verify the requirements with the agency requesting your background check.

Is an FD-258 card still used?

Yes. The FBI continues to provide and use the FD-258 for authorized civil fingerprint submissions. Whether you need one depends on the requirements of your particular background check or requesting organization.

Can I mail an FD-258 card directly to the FBI?

For certain FBI services, fingerprint cards are submitted as part of a specific application process. The correct mailing procedure depends on the service being requested. Always follow the FBI’s current instructions rather than mailing a card without confirming the appropriate process.

Which is better, Live Scan or an FD-258?

Neither method is universally better. The correct method is the one required or accepted by the organization requesting your fingerprint-based background check.

What happens if my fingerprints are rejected?

If fingerprints cannot be processed successfully, the receiving agency may request another set. The FBI recommends professional fingerprinting when possible and provides specific guidance for individuals whose fingerprints are repeatedly rejected.

Do I need an appointment for fingerprinting?

Appointment requirements vary by provider. Some fingerprinting services accept walk-ins, while others operate by appointment. Scheduling ahead can help ensure that the provider has the appropriate equipment and forms available for your specific request.

How long does fingerprinting take?

The fingerprint capture appointment itself may be relatively brief, but the total time required to complete a fingerprint-based background check depends on the submission method, receiving agency, processing requirements, and other factors.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Between FD-258 and Live Scan

Choosing between an FD-258 fingerprint card and Live Scan should begin with one question: What does the organization requesting my FBI background check require?

If the organization provides an FD-258 card or specifically requests a fingerprint card, a professional fingerprint technician can help you complete the card correctly. If the organization requires or accepts an authorized electronic fingerprint submission, Live Scan may offer a convenient digital alternative.

The most important goal is not simply choosing the newest or most convenient technology. It is submitting clear, accurate fingerprints through the correct authorized process.

By confirming the requirements before your appointment, bringing the correct identification and paperwork, and choosing an experienced fingerprinting provider, you can reduce avoidable errors and make the fingerprinting portion of your FBI background check as straightforward as possible.

For applicants who are unsure which method they need, the safest approach is to contact the employer, licensing board, government agency, or other organization requesting the background check. Once the required submission method is confirmed, a professional fingerprinting provider can help you complete the fingerprint capture portion of the process.