The Job Seeker’s Guide to Fingerprint Background Checks
Having a polished resume and strong interview skills isn’t enough in today’s competitive job market. With more employers prioritizing compliance and safety, the addition of background checks has become a crucial part of the hiring process.
The fingerprint background check has become a trusted and often required step for many industries. This guide will review why these checks matter for your job search and you can how you can prepare for a seamless and efficient process.
Why Do Employers Require Fingerprinting?
Employers use background checks for several key reasons: to verify identity, assess trustworthiness, and ensure compliance with legal standards. Fingerprinting is considered the most accurate screening tool available.
It is especially common in fields that involve public safety, financial security, or working with vulnerable populations.
Industries that often require fingerprinting include:
- Healthcare
- Education and childcare
- Government positions
- Financial services
- Transportation and logistics
- Security and law enforcement
Do I Need This? Check Your Industry
Not sure if this article applies to you? Select your job field from the dropdown menu to see if fingerprinting is a common requirement for your industry.
Fingerprinting vs. Name-Based Checks: What’s the Difference?
A fingerprint check is far superior to a simple name-based check. Name-based checks can easily return false matches or miss critical information due to spelling variations or shared names. Fingerprints are unique biometric identifiers.
| Name-Based Check | Fingerprint-Based Check |
| Matches based on spelling, aliases, or submitted info | Matches unique biometric identifiers |
| Higher chance of errors | Direct comparison with FBI and state databases |
| Limited data sources | Access to national law enforcement records |
This accuracy is why employers rely on fingerprinting for sensitive roles.
How a Clean Background Check Boosts Your Career
Passing your fingerprint background check successfully gives you a significant competitive advantage.
The key benefits include:
- Faster Hiring: A clean report leads to speedier hiring decisions.
- Employer Confidence: It shows you are reliable and responsible.
- More Opportunities: You become eligible for a wider range of jobs.
The Fingerprinting Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re asked to get a fingerprint background check, the process is simple, especially with modern digital “Live Scan” services.
- Locate a Provider: Your employer will direct you, or you will need to find an approved fingerprinting location. (Providers like Certifix Live Scan are a trusted option) .
- Bring Your Documents: You will need to bring a valid ID (like a driver’s license, passport, or state ID) and your Live Scan form or request number.
- Get Scanned: A technician will use digital equipment to scan your fingerprints. This entire process usually takes only a few minutes.
- Secure Submission: Your prints are sent securely to the designated agency (such as the DOJ or FBI) for review.
- Get Results: The results are sent directly to the employer or agency that requested them.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
A little preparation ensures your appointment runs smoothly and efficiently.
- Verify Requirements: Double-check which agency or employer needs your fingerprints.
- Check Your ID: Ensure your identification is current and not expired.
- Prep Your Hands: Moisturize or clean your hands before the scan to improve print quality.
- Confirm Details: Double-check the appointment location and hours.
Arrive Prepared: Your Appointment Checklist
We’ve created this interactive checklist to help you walk into your appointment with confidence. Use it to ensure you have everything you need before you go.
What If You Have an Issue on Your Record?
A concern about your background check does not always mean automatic disqualification. If an issue arises:
- Request a Copy: You have the right to request a copy of your criminal history.
- Correct Errors: If you find an error, you can take steps to correct it.
- Be Honest: If asked, provide honest explanations.
- Explore Options: Depending on your state, you may be eligible to explore options such as expungement or record sealing.
Start Your Career with Confidence
A clean background check gives you a strong advantage in the hiring process. It provides employers with confidence, ensures compliance, and speeds up hiring decisions.
When you’re ready to complete your fingerprinting, choose a trustworthy provider like Certifix Live Scan to get it done quickly and accurately. This simple step can help you secure your next job and start your career with confidence.👉 Visit Certifix Live Scan to schedule your fingerprinting appointment today.
Ready to Get Started? Find a Location Near You.
This is your first step. Enter your 5-digit zip code in the tool below to find the closest and most convenient Certifix Live Scan center and proceed with your application.
Was This Helpful?
Enjoy this article? Don't forget to share.
Get your Live Scan Fingerprinting Near You
Live Scan & ink Card Fingerprinting
Schedule an Appointment Now!
We Offer a Nationwide Network of 1200+ Fingerprint Enrollment Centers
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Why do employers require fingerprint background checks?
Employers use background checks to verify identity, assess trustworthiness, and ensure compliance with legal standards. They are a high priority for ensuring workplace safety, financial security, and customer protection.
-
Which industries require fingerprinting?
Many industries require them, especially those hiring for positions involving vulnerable populations, financial access, or public safety.
Common industries include:
- Healthcare
- Education and childcare
- Government positions
- Financial services
- Transportation and logistics
- Security and law enforcement
-
What is the difference between a fingerprint check and a name-based check?
A fingerprint-based check is the most accurate screening tool available.
- Name-based checks match spelling variations or aliases and have a higher chance of error.
- Fingerprint-based checks match unique biometric identifiers and provide access to national law enforcement records, directly comparing prints with FBI and state databases.
-
What should I expect during the fingerprinting (Live Scan) process?
The process is straightforward.
- You will locate an approved fingerprinting provider, like Certifix Live Scan.
- You must bring valid identification (such as a driver’s license or passport) and your Live Scan form or request number.
- Your fingerprints will be scanned using digital equipment, which typically takes only a minute.
- Your prints are then securely sent to the appropriate agency for review.
-
What do I need to bring to my appointment?
You will need to bring a valid photo ID (such as a Driver’s License or Passport) and a completed “Requesting Agency Form”.
-
Who gets the results of my background check?
The results are sent directly to the employer or requesting agency, not to you (the applicant).
-
How can I prepare for my fingerprinting appointment?
- Verify which agency or employer needs your fingerprint.
- Ensure your ID is current and valid.
- You can moisturize or clean your hands before the scan to improve print quality.
- Double-check the appointment location and time.
-
What happens if there is an issue on my record?
It does not always mean automatic disqualification. You can request a copy of your criminal history, work to correct any errors, provide honest explanations if asked, and explore expungement or record-sealing options depending on your state’s laws.
-
Where can I get my fingerprints done?
You can visit a trusted provider, such as Certifix Live Scan, to complete your scan quickly and professionally.