Live Scan fingerprinting plays a key role in California’s background check system. Whether you’re applying for a job, a state license, or volunteering, your fingerprints are submitted to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and, in many cases, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). These agencies use your fingerprints to perform background checks that ensure you meet the legal and ethical standards for the role or license you’re pursuing.
But how do you know whether your Live Scan requires a DOJ check, an FBI check, or both? And what exactly do these agencies look for when reviewing your background? In this post, we’ll walk through the essentials of Live Scan fingerprinting as it relates to both the DOJ and FBI, with a focus on how it works for California residents—especially those in Newport Beach.
What Is the DOJ’s Role in Live Scan Fingerprinting?
The California Department of Justice (DOJ) processes all in-state background checks. When you submit your fingerprints through Live Scan, the DOJ checks your fingerprints against California’s criminal history database to determine if you have any convictions, pending charges, or other legal issues on record within the state.
A DOJ background check is typically required for:
- Employment with public agencies (schools, hospitals, etc.)
- State-issued licenses (real estate, contractors, healthcare)
- Volunteer work with vulnerable populations (children, seniors)
- Foster care, adoption, or guardianship cases
The DOJ sends the results directly to the requesting agency, not to the applicant. Processing times are usually 2–3 business days, but results can take longer if additional manual review is needed.
When Is an FBI Background Check Required?
Some background checks also require submission to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This typically applies to positions or licenses where national criminal history is relevant, or when federal laws or out-of-state agencies are involved.
You may need an FBI check if:
- You’re applying for a license or job that requires federal clearance
- The requesting agency wants to know about your criminal history nationwide
- You’re working with firearms or sensitive federal data
- You’re applying for immigration, visas, or out-of-state certifications
When the FBI is involved, your fingerprints are sent to the FBI’s Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS), which checks them against a national criminal database.
How Do You Know Which Agencies Are Required?
The Request for Live Scan Service form (BCIA 8016) that you bring to your appointment specifies which checks are needed.
On the form, you’ll see checkboxes that indicate:
- DOJ only
- FBI only
- DOJ + FBI
You don’t decide this yourself—the agency requesting your background check determines it. Your fingerprinting technician will enter the necessary codes from your form to route your prints to the correct agencies.
If you’re unsure, contact the agency that gave you the form. Submitting your Live Scan without the right codes can result in delays or incomplete results.
What Do DOJ and FBI Background Checks Include?
Both the DOJ and FBI use your fingerprints to search for:
- Criminal convictions
- Arrest records
- Warrants
- Court orders
- Probation or parole violations
- Other legal proceedings tied to your identity
They do not evaluate things like credit history, driving records, or employment history—those are handled through separate screenings if needed.
What Happens If Something Shows Up?
If your record contains any criminal history, the DOJ and/or FBI will report that information directly to the requesting agency. The agency then reviews your case and determines whether the history disqualifies you from employment or licensure.
In some cases, a conviction won’t automatically disqualify you. Agencies may consider:
- How long ago the offense occurred
- Whether the offense is relevant to the position
- Evidence of rehabilitation or expungement
If your fingerprints are rejected due to poor image quality or technical issues, you’ll be contacted to return for a free resubmission.
Tips for Navigating DOJ and FBI Live Scan Requirements
- Always use the correct Request for Live Scan form
This form contains the ORI (Originating Agency Identifier) and determines where your results are sent. - Bring a valid photo ID
Acceptable forms include a state driver’s license, passport, or military ID. - Ask questions before your appointment
If you’re unsure about which agencies are involved, confirm with the agency requesting your background check before scheduling. - Track your submission
Use your ATI number (found on your receipt) to check your status via the DOJ’s website. - Plan ahead
While many results are returned within 3–7 business days, delays can happen—especially if the FBI is involved.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between DOJ and FBI Live Scan fingerprinting requirements is crucial for ensuring your background check is processed smoothly and accurately. In Newport Beach and throughout California, most licensing and employment-related background checks require at least a DOJ review, and many also involve the FBI.
By knowing what each agency does and what’s required for your specific situation, you’ll avoid delays and help ensure your fingerprinting appointment leads to a successful result. Always follow the guidance of the agency requesting the Live Scan, and don’t hesitate to ask your fingerprinting technician if you have questions about the process. We recommend Newport Beach Livescan.
