Different licensing boards, employers, and government agencies require different fingerprint recording methods. Understanding which method applies to your situation helps prevent delays, rejected submissions, or unnecessary travel.
Below is an overview of the most common fingerprinting methods and how they are used.
LiveScan is a digital fingerprinting method where prints are captured electronically and transmitted directly to the requesting agency.
LiveScan is commonly used for:
• State-level employment background checks
• Certain state licensing boards
• Law enforcement submissions
• TSA-regulated endorsements
LiveScan allows for electronic transmission and reduces the chance of rejected prints due to smudging.
Important for Missouri applicants:
With the exception of Missouri’s Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), many agencies will accept FD-258 ink cards if LiveScan appointments are unavailable due to vendor closures or scheduling limitations. Always confirm directly with the requesting agency.
Applicants seeking a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) on a Commercial Driver’s License must complete fingerprinting through a TSA-approved vendor.
Standard ink fingerprint cards are not accepted for Hazmat endorsements.
For Hazardous Materials Endorsement fingerprinting, applicants must use a TSA-approved vendor. A TSA-approved vendor location operating in the Kansas City region is:
IdentoGO
6600 College Blvd
Ste 205
Overland Park, KS 66211
Appointments and availability should be confirmed directly with the vendor, as operating hours and locations may change.
Some states require fingerprints to be submitted electronically through an approved intermediary, often referred to as a “channeler.”
A channeler is an authorized vendor that transmits fingerprint data directly to a specific state or federal agency.
Channeling requirements vary by state and agency. If your instructions reference electronic submission or a specific vendor requirement, verify whether ink cards are accepted or whether electronic transmission is mandatory.
The correct fingerprinting method depends on:
• The agency requesting fingerprints
• The state issuing your license or endorsement
• Whether the submission is state or federal
• Whether electronic transmission is required
When in doubt, confirm directly with the requesting agency
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