Whether you’re applying for a job, professional license, or background check in Florida, Ohio, or anywhere in between, fingerprinting is a key step in the process. But what should you expect—and how can you make the experience smooth and stress-free?
At FastFingerprints, we help thousands of people each year complete their fingerprint-based background checks quickly, securely, and in compliance with state and federal requirements. This step-by-step guide will help you prepare for your fingerprinting appointment and avoid common delays or rejections.
🔍 Why Fingerprinting Is Required
Fingerprinting is often required for:
- State and federal background checks
- Employment or volunteer work in regulated industries
- Professional licensure or certification
- Immigration, adoption, or visa applications
- Real estate, healthcare, and childcare screening
- FBI criminal history checks
Live Scan fingerprinting—a fast, electronic method—is now the preferred approach for most agencies and employers.
✅ How to Prepare for Your Fingerprinting Appointment
Step 1: Confirm Your Requirements
Before your appointment, verify with your employer, licensing board, or requesting agency:
- What type of background check you need: State (e.g., BCI or FDLE), FBI, or both
- Whether they require an ORI number: This ensures your results are sent to the correct agency
- Where the results should be sent
📌 Missing this information could delay your application or result in rejected prints.
Step 2: Choose an Authorized Fingerprinting Provider
Make sure you book your appointment with a provider that is:
- FDLE-approved (Florida)
- BCI WebCheck-authorized (Ohio)
- FBI Channeler, if national results are required
🛡️ FastFingerprints meets all of these criteria and offers both in-person and mobile fingerprinting options.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Bring the following with you:
- A valid, government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, military ID, etc.)
- Any required ORI number or agency-specific instructions
- Payment method (if not covered by your employer or agency)
💡 Tip: Make sure your name on the ID matches exactly what’s used in your application.
Step 4: Prepare Your Hands
For the best quality prints:
- Wash your hands before your appointment
- Avoid using lotion, oils, or hand sanitizer right beforehand
- If your hands are dry or cracked, use a light moisturizer earlier in the day
Poor-quality fingerprints may require reprinting, so good hand prep can help speed up the process.
Step 5: Know What to Expect During the Appointment
At your appointment:
- Your ID and paperwork will be reviewed
- Your fingerprints will be captured using Live Scan technology (no ink involved)
- The prints are electronically submitted to the appropriate agency (e.g., FDLE, BCI, FBI)
The process typically takes 10–15 minutes, and most results are processed in 24 to 72 hours.
📍 Why Choose FastFingerprints?
- State and federal compliance (FDLE, BCI, FBI)
- Electronic Live Scan submission
- Dozens of convenient locations across Florida, Ohio, and other states
- Walk-ins and same-day appointments available
- Mobile fingerprinting for businesses and group screenings
- Secure, fast, and reliable service
Whether you’re an individual or employer, FastFingerprints makes the fingerprinting process simple and stress-free.
📅 Ready to Schedule Your Appointment?
👉 Book online today
📞 Or call 614.457.8900 if you have questions about requirements, ORI codes, or mobile services.