Live Scan Fingerprinting

Life Scan A

Live Scan is inkless electronic fingerprinting. The fingerprints are electronically transmitted to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for completion of a criminal record check.

We require live scan fingerprinting from anyone applying for a first-time license as a vehicle salesperson, dealer, driving instructor, manufacturer, transporter, dismantler, registration service, distributor, lessor-retailer, remanufacturer, or any other vehicle industry requiring an occupational license from DMV.

This requirement also applies to first-time ambulance driver certificate applicants.

The advantage of live scan fingerprinting

With live scan fingerprinting, digital fingerprints and personal descriptor information are electronically transferred to the DOJ in a matter of seconds, as opposed to the days required to send hard copy fingerprints in the mail.

Live scan fingerprinting also eliminates many of the problems associated with ink prints, such as smudging, smearing, and over or under inking.

How do I get a live scan fingerprint?

To get your live scan fingerprint, visit a live scan fingerprint site. You can also call your local police or sheriff’s department for the nearest live scan station available to the general public.

Bring a Request for Live Scan Service (DMV 8016). There is also a $32 DOJ criminal record check fee that is collected at the live scan fingerprint site. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

No, DMV cannot contact DOJ for a copy of the results sent to another agency, nor can DMV accept a copy from any other source. DMV must receive a communication directly from DOJ to process the application. In order to receive communications from DOJ, the applicant must report to a Live Scan station with the correct DMV form, Request for Live Scan Service (DMV 8016).

DMV cannot release a license or permit until the applicant passes a background check from DOJ. Applicants may check the status of their Live Scan application at https://applicantstatus.doj.ca.gov. Applicants will need to enter their ATI # and date of birth.

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