What is a Live Scan Background Check?

Michelle Wilson - July 4, 2023

A live scan background check uses digital fingerprints to evaluate an individual’s criminal history. The process is often used for employment or volunteer purposes, particularly in education, healthcare, or finance industries. This scan is different from an online background check in a few ways. An online background check will compile a comprehensive report for an employer with multiple areas. In contrast, a live scan background check will focus predominantly on the criminal components of the screening.

How Does a Live Screen Background Check Work?

A live screen background check is relatively simple to perform. An individual requiring the screening will scan their fingerprints into the system and submit them to the appropriate government agency. The entire process is performed in real-time, earning the live scan name.

The first step in the screening is having fingerprints taken. This scan uses a live scan machine, using digital technology to capture the entire print. The images transmit to the appropriate government agencies for processing and referencing. After submitting the fingerprints, applicable government agencies will conduct a thorough criminal history investigation.

What’s Included in a Live Scan Background Check?

The review will include state and national databases, including relevant sex offender registries. The agency compiles all results in the system and sends them back to the requesting organization.

Live scan background checks will examine the criminal history, including past arrests or convictions, outstanding warrants, and sex offender registry information.

Outstanding Warrants

A live scan background check will reveal any warrants currently attached to an individual’s fingerprints. These details are critical for organizations working with vulnerable populations, including healthcare facilities or educational institutions. Outstanding warrants are also helpful for an organization concerned with the security and safety of current employees.

Previous Convictions

A key benefit to the live scan background screening is the ability to reveal any prior arrests or convictions. These details are imperative to employers, helping them make informed hiring decisions for their company. For instance, an individual with previous theft or fraud charges is not appropriate for positions handling money or accounts.

Sex Offender Registry

Finally, the live scan background check will also check for sex offender registry details. Organizations working with children, elderly, or mentally disabled populations require extensive evaluation before hiring applicants. This screening is also helpful for companies concerned about the well-being of employees, volunteers, or clients within the organization.

Why is a Live Scan Background Check Required?

Industries working with vulnerable populations will require a live scan background check. These industries include education, finance, and healthcare. A live scan background check reviews all relevant details of an applicant to ensure they can work with vulnerable populations. A criminal background check will ensure the safety and well-being of these populations.

Education

Within the education sector, live scan background checks will ensure teachers, volunteers, and staff have no previous convictions for sexual misconduct or abuse. These criminal convictions are essential for anyone working with children, providing a safe learning environment.

Finance

Finance industries use live scan background checks to ensure all professionals within the organization have had no previous convictions for crimes such as embezzlement or fraud. Handling financial accounts requires extensive trust and experience, particularly concerning vulnerable populations like the elderly. A finance company must limit overall risk, starting with a criminal background check.

Healthcare

Finally, healthcare professionals use a live scan background check to ensure all employees and volunteers haven’t had prior convictions of crimes relating to the field. These crimes may include assault or misconduct. Healthcare companies work with vulnerable populations, requiring the highest level of trust overall.

How is a Live Scan Check Performed?

Applicants requiring the live scan will receive instructions and forms from the agency requiring the criminal background check. The live scan company must receive these forms to finalize the scan. After completing the forms, the third-party organization will submit the documents and fingerprints for evaluation and return the results to the employer.

Where Do I Receive the Live Scan Forms?

All interested applicants must receive the instructions and forms from the ordering company requiring the criminal history background check. Agencies will offer the forms through email or directly through the company website. Live Scan offices will not provide the forms at your appointment.

Costs Associated with the Live Scan Screening

Currently, a rolling service fee is collected with the fingerprints collected. The cost is $20.00 and must be paid for the service. A criminal processing fee may be due at the time of evaluation. Occasionally, the requesting business or organization will cover this fee, so check with the company before your appointment.

Are Appointments Required for the Live Scan Application?

A live scan service is available by appointment only. Appointments are booked Monday-Friday, based on availability. Applicants will receive appointment instructions from the company requesting the scan, including dates and times.

What Should an Applicant Bring for the Appointment?

An applicant will require a valid government issue photo identification. This identification may include a passport, driver’s license, or other legal document. Any identification must be valid (expired or suspended documents will not be accepted for the appointment). The agency will not take temporary identification for the appointment.

All individuals will require the “Request for Live Scan Services Form” from the requesting company. Always complete the applicant information section before your appointment. Finally, all individuals will need to pay the applicable fees for the screening. Payment methods include Debit, Visa, or Mastercard. Many locations don’t accept cash payments, so call the establishment before your appointment to confirm.

Receiving a Rejection Notice

If you receive a rejection notice for your fingerprints, contact the agency immediately to resubmit your fingerprints. Bring a copy of the rejection letter and a new copy of the Request for Live Scan Service Form. Any resubmissions are free of charge.

What If I Don’t Receive a Response?

The Department of Justice will send the results of your fingerprint screening directly to the requesting agency within seven days of the appointment. If you have not heard from the company after seven business days, contact the agency to make a status inquiry. All applicants should check with the company for an update on the hiring decision if they have questions about the application status.

Conclusion

A live scan background check uses digital fingerprints to compile a comprehensive criminal history for interested applicants. This screening is typically used for anyone working with vulnerable populations or legally mandated industries within the United States. Most often, applicants applying within the healthcare, finance, or education sectors will require a fingerprint background check to protect vulnerable populations and reduce the risk and liability of the company. All applicants have the right to refuse a fingerprint check through an employer, but it will typically terminate the employment offer.