Where Can I Get Fingerprinting? A Guide to Finding Trusted Fingerprinting Services
You can get fingerprinting done at several types of locations, including local police stations, authorized private fingerprinting providers, mailing/shipping centers, and some government offices. The best place depends on your specific needs—whether you require digital or ink fingerprints, if you’re completing background checks for employment, licensing, immigration, or other official purposes.
Getting fingerprints taken is an essential step for many legal and professional processes. With the increased demand for background checks and identity verification, knowing where to go can save you time and hassle. Not all locations offer the same services, or support all agency requirements, so it’s important to verify in advance.
This article will break down the most common fingerprinting locations, the types of services they offer, how to select the right option for your situation, tips for preparing, and what to expect from the process. We’ll also compare major provider types and answer your key questions to help you feel confident choosing where to get fingerprinting done.
Police Departments and Sheriff’s Offices for Fingerprinting
Availability and Appointment Policies
Most city and county police departments offer fingerprinting services, often for both residents and non-residents. However, availability can be limited to certain days or hours, and some require appointments in advance, especially in larger cities. Fees are usually modest, but policies on payment methods may vary.
Calling ahead or checking the department’s website helps you avoid unnecessary trips, as not all stations can handle every agency’s fingerprinting requirements. Some locations may offer only ink cards, while others support digital, live scan fingerprinting.
- Limited hours or specific days
- May require residency or ID
- Typically lower cost
Accepted Purposes and Limitations
Police stations serve diverse fingerprinting needs, from job and license applications to adoption and background checks. However, not every location supports all agency specifications or digital submissions—so verify whether electronic or hard-copy prints are accepted for your purpose.
For federal or specialized background checks (like FBI or state agency submissions), ensure the department can process the necessary forms or transmit prints directly if needed.
Authorized Private Fingerprinting Providers
Chain Service Centers and Specialized Companies
Private companies such as Identogo, Fieldprint, and Certifix offer professional fingerprinting services across many locations. These providers usually operate in both standalone storefronts and within partnered retail spaces like shipping stores. Scheduling appointments online is typical, and many sites offer extended hours.
Private fingerprinting services can often process both ink and digital (live scan) fingerprints, fulfilling requirements for local, state, or federal background checks. Pricing is generally higher than police stations, but the range of services, speed, and comfort are improved.
May offer convenient booking online
Wider hours including evenings and weekends
Digital Fingerprinting vs. Ink (Card) Services
Authorized providers are more likely to offer live scan fingerprinting, which digitally captures and submits fingerprints directly to agencies. Some still handle traditional ink-based fingerprint cards for particular forms and international processes.
Before booking, confirm if your requesting agency accepts electronic submissions or requires traditional cards, as not all private providers offer both formats or support out-of-state requests.
Mailing, Shipping, and Office Supply Stores
Available Services and Limitations
Some national mailing and shipping retailers—like The UPS Store—offer fingerprinting onsite through partnerships with fingerprinting networks. Services may include both electronic and ink fingerprinting depending on location.
However, not all locations participate or support all types of requests. Always check with your local store and schedule ahead to avoid inconvenience.
- Offered at select locations only
- May require advanced booking
For more on this, see our related guide: Where to Get a Criminal Background Check: Your Complete Guide to Sources and Process.
Convenience and Wait Times
Shipping and office supply stores may offer extended hours, providing more flexibility for busy schedules. Wait times are often shorter than at government offices since appointments are commonly required.
These providers cater mostly to employment, licensing, or notary verification, but may not process government or international fingerprint cards.
Where Can I Get Fingerprinting for Special Agencies and Federal Background Checks?
FBI, Immigration, and State Agencies
For purposes like FBI background checks, immigration, or state-level professional licensing, accepted fingerprinting locations often include only specific authorized centers. These might be at designated federal buildings, partner vendors, or traveling fingerprinting events.
Applicants should use each agency’s website or resources to verify accepted providers. Some categories—like healthcare licensing—may be restricted to fingerprints from certain approved centers.
- Check your agency’s provider list
- Requirements may differ by state
International or Out-of-State Needs
When submitting fingerprints for out-of-state or international requirements, always confirm service options ahead of time. Some sites can only process local or state requests and cannot generate acceptable fingerprints for global forms or other states’ licensing boards.
Mail-in options may be available for certain agency requests but expect longer turnaround times.
Preparation, Requirements, and What to Bring
Personal Identification and Forms
All fingerprinting locations require a valid, government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport. Some agencies also require a completed fingerprint card or specific authorization forms—be sure to check and bring any paperwork required by your requesting agency.
If a payment is needed, call ahead to confirm the accepted methods (cash, card, money order).
- Photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
- Official fingerprinting forms/cards
- Payment method
Preparing for the Appointment
Prepare by washing your hands and avoiding lotions or oils, which can impact print quality. Arrive early to complete any paperwork, and dress comfortably—fingerprinting can involve brief hand manipulation.
Inquire about mask requirements or safety precautions if you have concerns about in-person appointments.
Cost, Turnaround Time, and Service Guarantees
Typical Pricing at Different Locations
Police stations generally charge $10–$30 per session, while private centers and shipping stores can cost $35–$65 or more depending on the type (ink or live scan) and extra services. Some states cap fingerprinting fees by law for certain roles.
Keep in mind that live scan services may also charge fees for digital submission to agencies or expedited processing, increasing the overall cost.
For background on the science and uses of fingerprinting, you can read more about fingerprint identification. more about fingerprint identification.
Processing Time and Quality Guarantees
Ink fingerprint cards are often provided during your appointment for you to mail, with agency review taking days to weeks. Electronic live scan providers frequently transmit directly to agencies, resulting in much faster processing—sometimes within 24–48 hours.
Some private providers guarantee print quality or offer a free re-take if your prints are rejected; ask about policies ahead of time.
- Police departments: slower but low cost
- Private/live scan: faster processing
Fingerprinting Locations Comparison
To help you decide, here’s a side-by-side comparison of major types of fingerprinting providers, showing their typical costs, formats, hours, and advantages.
| Provider Type | Formats Offered | Average Cost | Scheduling | Turnaround Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Police Department | Ink, sometimes live scan | $10-$30 | Walk-in or appointment | Several days to 2 weeks | Official/government requests |
| Private Center (Identogo, Fieldprint) | Ink & live scan | $35-$65 | Online appointment | 1-3 days (live scan) | Employment, licensure, FBI |
| Mailing/Shipping Store | Mostly ink | $20-$40 | Appointment or walk-in | Varies (mail-in required) | Notary, jobs, some licenses |
| State/Federal Agency Office | Varies | Set by agency | By agency appointment | Agency-dependent | Specialized regulatory checks |
| Mobile or Pop-up Event | Ink, sometimes live scan | $30-$50 | Drop-in/appointment | Varies | Rural areas, large groups |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get fingerprinted at any police station?
Not all police stations offer public fingerprinting, and availability may be limited to certain hours. Call ahead or check their website to confirm whether the service is available, as some may restrict access to local residents or specific purposes.
What is the difference between live scan and ink fingerprinting?
Live scan uses a digital scanner to capture and transmit fingerprints electronically, providing faster results and supporting many agencies. Ink fingerprinting involves rolling fingers on a card for physical submission, sometimes required for particular purposes or international requests.
Do I need an appointment for fingerprinting?
Most private providers and many police departments require appointments, though some offer limited walk-in hours. Always check provider policies online or by phone to avoid long waits or being turned away without an appointment.
Is fingerprinting the same for background checks and immigration?
The process is similar but requirements differ. For immigration or certain federal checks, you might need to use approved vendors or specific forms. Always follow the exact instructions from the requesting agency to ensure acceptance.
How long does it take to get results after fingerprinting?
If you use live scan, results may arrive within 24–72 hours. Ink cards sent by mail can take days to weeks, depending on the processing agency. Times vary based on workload and the specific agency’s procedures.
Key Takeaways
- Police stations and authorized private providers are top choices for fingerprinting.
- Check agency requirements before selecting a location or format (ink vs. live scan).
- Bring proper ID, paperwork, and verify accepted forms of payment.
- Live scan services usually offer the fastest turnaround times.
Conclusion
Choosing where to get fingerprinting done is a matter of matching your needs—such as format (ink or live scan), agency requirements, location, and budget—against what local providers offer. Start by identifying whether your requesting agency requires a digital submission, an ink card, or a specific approved list of vendors, then compare police departments, private fingerprint networks, and shipping centers accordingly. Planning ahead saves unnecessary trips and potential delays.
For example, if you need fingerprints for a state license or local background check, your neighborhood police station or mailing center may be sufficient, especially if cost is important. For faster processing—like a job needing digital transmission—private providers such as Identogo or Fieldprint are ideal. Specialized needs, including FBI checks or immigration, may require you to use certain government or accredited locations. Begin with your agency’s requirements and consult the comparison table in this article for clear direction.
Ultimately, being prepared and informed will streamline your fingerprinting experience. Confirm appointment policies, bring all required documentation, and double-check if ink or live scan is needed. By understanding your options and what each provider offers, you’ll complete this step smoothly—and be ready for your next step, whether it’s a new job, license, or travel opportunity.
