Fingerprinting Services
Fingerprinting in Miami
Live Scan, Ink Card, FBI, and FDLE Fingerprinting
Fingerprinting in Miami is available through Live Scan, ink card, and Print-to-Card methods, covering FBI background checks, FDLE Level II background checks, professional licensing, immigration, and international applications. Appointments are available in-office and by mobile visit throughout Miami-Dade County.
Live Scan Fingerprinting
What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting?
Live Scan is the digital method of capturing fingerprints electronically using FBI-certified scanners, replacing the traditional ink-and-card process. Fingerprints are transmitted securely to FDLE, the FBI, or the requesting agency, generally within 24 hours of the appointment, along with a Transaction Control Number (TCN) for tracking.
Live Scan is accepted by healthcare, education, law enforcement, and state licensing agencies, and rejected submissions can generally be resubmitted at no additional charge as a business policy — confirm applicability for your specific submission. Mobile Live Scan appointments are available at a home, office, or business location, including group and corporate fingerprinting events.
Ink Card Fingerprinting
What Is Ink Card Fingerprinting?
Ink card fingerprinting is the traditional method of applying fingerprints with ink onto an official fingerprint card, such as the FD-258. Many federal and international applications still require this method rather than electronic submission.
Common uses for ink card fingerprinting include:
- FBI Identity History Summary Checks (personal criminal history record requests)
- ATF firearm and explosives applications
- Immigration and visa processes
- Out-of-state licensing and certification boards
- International government requests
Print-to-Card Fingerprinting
What Is Print-to-Card Fingerprinting?
Print-to-Card combines Live Scan with fingerprint cards. Fingerprints are captured digitally and then printed onto official FBI-approved fingerprint cards, which produces a cleaner, more accurate print than traditional ink and can reduce rejection rates.
Fingerprint card types available include:
- FD-258 (Applicant)
- FD-249 (Criminal)
- FD-1164 (Identity History)
- SF-87 (Federal Employment)
- ATF Cards
FBI Fingerprinting
FBI Fingerprinting and FBI Background Checks
An FBI fingerprint background check searches national criminal history records using submitted fingerprints. An FBI Identity History Summary Check, sometimes called a personal rap sheet request, provides an individual's own FBI criminal history record. The FBI offers direct electronic request options as well as submission through participating USPS locations, mail, and FBI-approved channelers — follow the instructions at the official FBI Identity History Summary Checks page for the method that applies to your situation.
Official reference: FBI Identity History Summary Checks FAQ
Many international applications require an FBI background check along with an apostille certifying it for use abroad. Both fingerprinting and apostille processing are available together. FBI Background Check Apostille →
FDLE Fingerprinting
FDLE Fingerprinting and Level II Background Checks
FDLE fingerprinting refers to fingerprint submissions processed through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for licensing, employment, and other background checks, generally submitted using Live Scan. Every Level II submission requires a valid ORI number tied to the requesting agency — the ORI is typically provided by the employer, licensing board, or agency requesting the background check. The total cost is the FDLE ORI fee plus a rolling fee.
A full breakdown of the Level II background check process, including a detailed ORI number chart organized by profession, is available on our Level II Background Check page. Level II Background Check page →
Who Needs This
Who Needs Fingerprinting in Florida
- Healthcare professionals (nurses, doctors, caregivers, massage therapists)
- Teachers, educators, and childcare workers
- Security guards and firearm permit applicants
- Immigration and naturalization applicants
- Real estate, insurance, and financial professionals
- Federal and state employment candidates
- Volunteers and nonprofit workers
Mobile Fingerprinting
Mobile Fingerprinting in Miami
Mobile fingerprinting is available at a home, office, or business location throughout Miami-Dade County. Group appointments and corporate fingerprinting events can be scheduled, with volume-based pricing generally available for larger groups. Appointments generally take about 10 to 15 minutes.
What to Bring
IDs and Requirements for Fingerprinting
- A valid driver's license, Florida ID, U.S. passport, or resident card (expired IDs are not accepted)
- The correct ORI number, for Level II or FDLE submissions
- Any application forms or reference numbers provided by an employer or licensing board
International
International Fingerprint Card Shipping
Completed fingerprint cards can be shipped internationally via FedEx, DHL, UPS, or USPS. Many international applications require both a physical fingerprint card and an apostille, depending on the destination country's requirements.
Area of Coverage
Fingerprinting Near Me: Areas Covered in Miami
Fingerprinting is available at our Miami office locations as well as through mobile appointments throughout Miami-Dade County, including the following areas.
- Downtown Miami
- Brickell
- Doral
- Hialeah
- Kendall
- Coral Gables
- Westchester
- Miami Beach
- Aventura
- Homestead
Frequently Asked Questions
Fingerprinting FAQ: Miami
Live Scan Fingerprinting
What is Live Scan fingerprinting?
A digital method of capturing fingerprints electronically using FBI-certified scanners, replacing ink and paper.
How is Live Scan different from traditional fingerprinting?
Live Scan captures prints digitally and transmits them electronically, while traditional fingerprinting uses ink on paper cards.
Are Live Scan fingerprints accepted by FDLE and the FBI?
Yes, Live Scan is a standard accepted method for both FDLE and FBI submissions.
What is a Transaction Control Number (TCN)?
A TCN is the reference number assigned to a Live Scan submission, used to track its status.
How quickly are Live Scan fingerprints transmitted?
Fingerprints are generally transmitted electronically within 24 hours of the appointment.
What happens if my Live Scan fingerprints are rejected?
Rejected fingerprints can generally be resubmitted at no additional charge as a business policy — confirm applicability for your specific submission.
Can Live Scan be used for out-of-state agencies?
Live Scan can be used for out-of-state submissions if the receiving agency accepts electronic Florida submissions and the correct ORI is used.
Is Live Scan more accurate than ink fingerprinting?
Live Scan generally produces clearer images than ink fingerprinting, which can reduce rejection rates.
Do I need an appointment for Live Scan fingerprinting?
Scheduling in advance is recommended to ensure availability.
Is Live Scan available for mobile appointments?
Yes, mobile Live Scan fingerprinting is available at a home, office, or business location.
Ink Card Fingerprinting
What is ink card fingerprinting?
The traditional method of applying fingerprints with ink onto an official fingerprint card, such as the FD-258.
Why would I need ink card fingerprinting instead of Live Scan?
Certain federal, international, or agency-specific applications still require ink cards rather than electronic submission.
What is the FD-258 fingerprint card used for?
The FD-258 is commonly used for FBI applicant background checks and various licensing and employment applications.
Is ink card fingerprinting required for FBI Identity History Summary Checks?
Ink card fingerprinting is commonly used for FBI Identity History Summary Checks, also known as personal rap sheet requests. The FBI also offers direct electronic request options and submission through participating USPS locations and channelers — check the official FBI page for current accepted methods.
Do ATF applications require ink card fingerprinting?
ATF firearm and explosives applications typically require fingerprint cards such as the FD-258. Some ATF eForms may accept electronic fingerprint transfer (EFT). Follow the instructions at https://www.atf.gov/firearms/docs/form/fingerprint-card-instructions-and-example-fd-258 for the specific application.
Is ink card fingerprinting used for immigration applications?
Yes, many immigration and visa processes require ink card fingerprinting.
Can ink card fingerprinting be used for international government requests?
Yes, many international government requests require ink card fingerprinting rather than electronic submission.
Are ink fingerprint cards accepted nationwide?
Official fingerprint cards such as the FD-258 are generally accepted nationwide.
Can multiple ink fingerprint cards be completed in one appointment?
Multiple cards can generally be completed in a single appointment if needed.
Do out-of-state licensing boards accept ink card fingerprinting?
Many out-of-state licensing and certification boards accept ink card fingerprinting.
Print-to-Card & Fingerprint Cards
What is Print-to-Card fingerprinting?
A method that captures fingerprints digitally through Live Scan and then prints them onto an official fingerprint card.
Why use Print-to-Card instead of traditional ink?
Print-to-Card produces a cleaner, more accurate print than ink, which can reduce the chance of rejection.
What is the FD-258 card?
An applicant fingerprint card commonly used for FBI background checks and licensing applications.
What is the FD-249 card?
A fingerprint card used for criminal-related submissions.
What is the FD-1164 card?
A card used for FBI Identity History Summary (personal record) requests.
What is the SF-87 card?
A fingerprint card used for federal employment background checks.
Are ATF fingerprint cards different from FBI cards?
ATF applications use their own designated fingerprint cards separate from standard FBI applicant cards. Follow the ATF application instructions for the correct card type.
Can Print-to-Card fingerprints be used for international applications?
Yes, Print-to-Card results can be used for international applications that require a physical fingerprint card.
Are physical fingerprint cards provided on-site?
Yes, official fingerprint cards including the FD-258 and other FBI-approved cards are available.
Which method has a lower rejection rate, ink or Print-to-Card?
Print-to-Card generally has a lower rejection rate than traditional ink fingerprinting due to the digital capture process.
FBI Fingerprinting & Background Checks
What is an FBI fingerprint background check?
A search of national criminal history records using submitted fingerprints.
What is an FBI Identity History Summary Check?
Also known as a personal rap sheet request, it provides an individual's own FBI criminal history record.
How do I request my own FBI Identity History Summary?
The FBI offers direct electronic request options as well as submission through participating USPS locations, mail, and FBI-approved channelers. Visit the official FBI Identity History Summary Checks FAQ page for current instructions.
Is an FBI background check the same as a Level II background check?
A Level II background check submitted through FDLE includes an FBI records check as part of the process.
Do I need an FBI background check for international use?
Many countries require an FBI Identity History Summary, often apostilled, for visas, residency, or employment abroad.
Does an FBI background check require an apostille for international use?
Many international applications require both an FBI background check and an apostille certifying it.
How long does an FBI Identity History Summary Check take?
Processing times are determined by the FBI, not by the fingerprinting location.
Can FBI fingerprinting be done through Live Scan?
FBI Identity History Summary requests are generally submitted using ink card fingerprinting. The FBI also offers direct electronic request options — check the official FBI page for current accepted methods.
What ID is needed for FBI fingerprinting?
A valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, is required.
Can FBI fingerprint cards be shipped internationally?
Yes, completed fingerprint cards can be shipped internationally.
FDLE & Level II Background Checks
What is a Level II background check in Florida?
A fingerprint-based criminal history check conducted through FDLE and the FBI.
What is FDLE fingerprinting?
Fingerprint submissions processed through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for licensing, employment, and other background checks.
Is FDLE fingerprinting the same as Live Scan?
FDLE fingerprinting is generally submitted using Live Scan technology.
Do I need an ORI number for FDLE fingerprinting?
Yes, every Level II submission requires a valid ORI number tied to the requesting agency.
How much does FDLE Level II fingerprinting cost?
The cost is the FDLE ORI fee, which varies by agency, plus a flat rolling fee.
Where can I find a full breakdown of FDLE Level II background checks?
A full breakdown, including the ORI number chart by profession, is available on our Level II Background Check page.
How can I check the status of my FDLE screening?
Status can be checked using the Transaction Control Number (TCN) through FDLE's official lookup tool.
Does FDLE retain fingerprint results?
Retention depends on the profession and whether results are enrolled in the FDLE Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse.
Are Level II background checks required for licensing in Florida?
Yes, many Florida licenses and employment categories require a Level II background check.
Can Level II fingerprinting results be shared between employers?
In some cases, if results are retained in the FDLE Clearinghouse and the new employer participates.
ORI Numbers
What is an ORI number?
An Originating Agency Identifier that tells FDLE which agency should receive fingerprint results.
Who provides the ORI number?
The employer, licensing board, or agency requesting the background check typically provides it.
What happens if the wrong ORI number is used?
Fingerprint results may be misrouted or rejected, delaying the application.
Do different professions have different ORI numbers?
Yes, each profession or license category is generally tied to its own ORI number.
Where can I look up my ORI number?
The official FDLE ORI Lookup Tool can be used to confirm an ORI number and its fee. Your employer or requesting agency can also confirm the correct ORI for your submission.
Can I reuse an ORI number for a different license?
No, fingerprint results generally cannot be shared between different professions or ORI numbers.
Is there a chart of ORI numbers by profession?
Yes, a detailed ORI number chart organized by agency and profession is available on our Level II Background Check page.
Does every agency use the same ORI prefix?
No, ORI prefixes vary by agency, such as EAHCA for AHCA or EDOH for the Department of Health.
Who Needs Fingerprinting
Do healthcare professionals need fingerprinting in Florida?
Yes, many healthcare licenses and healthcare employment positions require fingerprinting.
Do nurses need fingerprinting?
Yes, nursing licensure in Florida generally requires fingerprint-based background screening.
Do massage therapists need fingerprinting?
Yes, massage therapy licensure in Florida requires fingerprint-based background screening.
Do teachers need fingerprinting?
Yes, Florida school employment generally requires fingerprint-based background screening.
Do childcare workers need fingerprinting?
Yes, individuals working in licensed childcare settings require fingerprint-based background screening.
Do security guards need fingerprinting?
Yes, security licensing in Florida requires fingerprint-based background screening.
Do firearm permit applicants need fingerprinting?
Yes, concealed weapon and firearm license applications require fingerprint-based background screening.
Do immigration applicants need fingerprinting?
Many immigration and naturalization applications require fingerprinting as part of the process. Note that agency-directed immigration biometrics appointments are scheduled by the receiving agency and are separate from private fingerprinting services.
Do real estate agents need fingerprinting?
Yes, Florida real estate licensing requires fingerprint-based background screening.
Do insurance agents need fingerprinting?
Yes, Florida insurance licensing generally requires fingerprint-based background screening.
Do financial professionals need fingerprinting?
Many financial licensing and employment categories require fingerprint-based background screening.
Do federal employment candidates need fingerprinting?
Yes, many federal employment applications require fingerprinting, often using ink cards or the SF-87.
Do state employment candidates need fingerprinting?
Many Florida state employment positions require fingerprint-based background screening.
Do volunteers need fingerprinting?
Yes, volunteers working with children, elderly, or vulnerable populations often require fingerprint-based background screening.
Do nonprofit workers need fingerprinting?
Nonprofit employees and volunteers working with vulnerable populations may require fingerprint-based background screening.
Mobile Fingerprinting & Appointments
Is mobile fingerprinting available in Miami?
Yes, mobile fingerprinting is available at a home, office, or business location in Miami-Dade.
Can fingerprinting be done for a group or company event?
Yes, group and corporate fingerprinting appointments are available.
Are there discounts for group fingerprinting?
Volume-based pricing is generally available for businesses and group fingerprinting events.
How long does a fingerprinting appointment take?
Appointments generally take about 10 to 15 minutes.
Do I need to schedule in advance for mobile fingerprinting?
Yes, scheduling in advance is recommended for mobile appointments.
Can fingerprinting be done at a business office in Miami?
Yes, in-office fingerprinting appointments are available in Miami.
Is walk-in fingerprinting available?
Availability may vary; scheduling an appointment in advance is recommended.
Can multiple people be fingerprinted in one mobile visit?
Yes, multiple individuals can generally be fingerprinted during one mobile appointment.
Is mobile fingerprinting available for corporate compliance programs?
Yes, mobile fingerprinting can be arranged for corporate compliance and onboarding programs.
How do I schedule a fingerprinting appointment in Miami?
An appointment can be scheduled by phone, WhatsApp, email, or online booking.
IDs & Requirements
What ID is required for fingerprinting?
A valid driver's license, Florida ID, U.S. passport, or resident card is generally required.
Can I use an expired ID for fingerprinting?
No, expired IDs are not accepted.
Do I need to bring my ORI number to my appointment?
Yes, the correct ORI number should be brought to a Level II fingerprinting appointment.
Can minors be fingerprinted?
Fingerprinting for minors depends on the specific requesting agency's requirements.
Do I need paperwork from my employer for fingerprinting?
Any application forms or reference numbers provided by the employer or licensing board should be brought to the appointment.
Is a Social Security number required for fingerprinting?
Some applications may require a Social Security number depending on the requesting agency.
Can I be fingerprinted without a U.S. ID?
A valid passport or resident card can generally be used if a U.S. driver's license or state ID is not available.
Should I avoid lotion before my fingerprinting appointment?
Yes, lotions or oils on the hands can affect fingerprint image quality.
International Shipping & Cards
Can fingerprint cards be shipped internationally?
Yes, completed fingerprint cards can be shipped internationally.
What shipping carriers are available for fingerprint cards?
FedEx, DHL, UPS, and USPS are available for shipping completed fingerprint cards.
Can fingerprint cards be used for a foreign government application?
Yes, ink card or Print-to-Card fingerprints are commonly used for foreign government and international applications.
Do international fingerprint card requests need an apostille?
Many international applications require both fingerprint cards and an apostille, depending on the destination country.
Can fingerprint cards be mailed directly to a foreign consulate?
Completed fingerprint cards can generally be shipped to a foreign consulate or agency as instructed by that recipient.
How are fingerprint cards packaged for international shipping?
Fingerprint cards are packaged securely to protect the physical card and any accompanying paperwork during shipping.
Can I request tracking for an internationally shipped fingerprint card?
Yes, tracked shipping options are available through major carriers.
Are digital Live Scan results available for international use, or only physical cards?
Many international applications require a physical fingerprint card rather than digital Live Scan results.
Pricing & General
How much does fingerprinting cost in Miami?
Cost varies depending on the fingerprinting method, the number of cards needed, and any applicable ORI fee.
Does Live Scan cost more than ink card fingerprinting?
Pricing varies by method and purpose; both are available depending on what the requesting agency accepts.
Is there a fee difference between mobile and in-office fingerprinting?
Mobile appointments may include an additional fee compared to in-office appointments.
Are there additional fees for fingerprint card shipping?
Shipping costs vary depending on the carrier and destination.
Is payment required at the time of the appointment?
Payment is generally collected at the time of the fingerprinting appointment.
Are there additional charges for resubmitting rejected fingerprints?
Resubmissions for rejected fingerprints are generally provided at no additional charge as a business policy — confirm applicability for your specific submission.
Miami Location & Coverage
Where is fingerprinting available in Miami?
Fingerprinting is available at our Miami office locations as well as through mobile appointments throughout Miami-Dade.
Is fingerprinting available in Doral, Brickell, or Kendall?
Yes, fingerprinting is available in these areas through mobile appointments.
Is fingerprinting available in Hialeah or Coral Gables?
Yes, fingerprinting is available in these areas through mobile appointments.
Is fingerprinting available in Miami Beach?
Yes, mobile fingerprinting appointments are available in Miami Beach.
Can fingerprinting be scheduled outside Miami-Dade County?
Availability outside Miami-Dade should be confirmed when scheduling.
What are the two Miami office locations for fingerprinting?
Fingerprinting is available at 2915 Biscayne Blvd Suite 300-1 and 10166 West Flagler Street in Miami.
Get Started
Ready to Schedule Your Fingerprinting?
For Live Scan, ink card, or Print-to-Card fingerprinting, FBI or FDLE background checks, or apostille and notarization needs, contact Miami Dade Apostille or schedule an appointment online.
Miami Dade Apostille provides Live Scan, ink card, and Print-to-Card fingerprinting for individuals needing background checks for licensing, employment, healthcare, education, childcare, real estate, immigration, and international purposes. We are not a government agency; FDLE and the FBI are solely responsible for processing and reviewing background check results. This page is provided for general informational purposes and is not legal advice. For questions specific to licensing or immigration requirements, consult the requesting agency or a licensed attorney.