If you’ve been asked to complete a fingerprint background check for employment, licensure, or volunteering in Florida, chances are your fingerprints will be sent to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). But before you go to your appointment, there are a few key things you should know to avoid delays, rejected results, or compliance issues.
At FastFingerprints, we’re an FDLE-approved Live Scan fingerprint provider with locations across Florida. Here’s what you need to know before submitting your fingerprints to the FDLE.
What Is the FDLE and Why Are Fingerprints Sent There?
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is the state agency responsible for managing criminal history records. When you’re fingerprinted for a background check, your prints are scanned and submitted to FDLE to:
- Search Florida’s state criminal history database
- Determine eligibility for employment, licensing, or volunteer work
- Screen for disqualifying offenses under Florida law
For many roles, FDLE will also forward your fingerprints to the FBI for a national criminal history check.
Top Things to Know Before You Submit Fingerprints to FDLE
1. You Need the Correct ORI Number
Your employer, licensing agency, or organization must provide you with an ORI number (Originating Agency Identifier). This code tells FDLE:
- Where to send your background check results
- What type of screening is required
- Whether your prints also need to go to the FBI
If you don’t have the right ORI, your results may be delayed or sent to the wrong agency.
2. Choose an FDLE-Approved Live Scan Provider
Not all fingerprinting services can submit directly to FDLE. Make sure to choose a certified provider—like FastFingerprints—to ensure:
- Electronic fingerprint capture (Live Scan)
- Direct submission to FDLE
- Secure transmission and proper tracking
- Compliance with Florida state law
Ink card submissions are NOT accepted for most FDLE fingerprint checks.
3. Bring Valid Identification
You must bring a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as:
- Driver’s license
- Passport
- State ID card
- Military ID
Your ID must match the name you are submitting for the background check.
4. Double-Check the Purpose of Your Check
FDLE fingerprints are required for many types of screening, including:
- AHCA (Agency for Health Care Administration)
- DCF (Department of Children and Families)
- Department of Education
- DBPR (Department of Business and Professional Regulation)
- DOH (Department of Health)
- Volunteer organizations and churches
Confirm with your organization what kind of check is required and whether FBI screening is also needed.
5. Understand the Timeline
Once submitted, FDLE typically processes results in:
- 24–72 hours for most fingerprint checks
- Up to 5 business days if additional screening is needed
FastFingerprints provides quick submission and tracking so you can meet any deadlines for employment or licensing.
Why Choose FastFingerprints for FDLE Fingerprinting?
At FastFingerprints, we make the process simple, fast, and compliant:
- FDLE-Approved Live Scan Provider
- Electronic submission with no ink or mailing required
- Dozens of Florida locations with flexible appointment times
- Mobile services available for employers and group screenings
- Same-day processing in most cases
Need to Get Fingerprinted for FDLE Today?
We’re here to help you meet your background screening requirements with accuracy and efficiency.
Schedule your appointment now [take link from site]
Or call 614.457.8900 for help with ORI codes or documentation.