What to Bring to Your Fingerprinting Appointment (Checklist)

Your Fingerprinting Appointment Checklist

1. 01Valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID — driver's license, state ID, passport, or permanent resident card. NO: expired IDs, school IDs, or credit cards.
2. 02Your ORI number — the 9-character code from your employer, licensing board, or application instructions. Write it down or screenshot it — don't rely on memory.
3. 03Your application/reference number (if provided) — some agencies assign a file number, case number, or applicant ID that must accompany your fingerprints.
4. 04Payment method — credit/debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or cash. We accept all major payment types.
5. 05Your Social Security number — most submissions require it. You don't need the physical card for most agencies, but know the number.
6. 06Your phone — for receiving your TCN and appointment confirmation. Also helpful for looking up additional info if needed.

What You Don't Need (Common Misconceptions)

• Fingerprint cards (FD-258) — we provide them if you're doing ink cards. You don't need to bring your own unless your agency specifically provided them.
• Application forms filled out — for Live Scan, the technician enters your information from your ID and ORI. No paperwork required from you.
• Passport photos — not needed for fingerprinting. Only needed if you're also applying for a passport or visa separately.
• Proof of residency — not required for fingerprinting. Your ID confirms identity; the ORI routes results. Residency status only matters for FBI check pricing.

Before-You-Go Prep

• Moisturize your hands for 2–3 days before your appointment — this significantly improves print quality, especially if you have dry skin or do manual work.
• Avoid alcohol-based hand sanitizer for at least 30 minutes before your session — it dries out ridges and can cause the scanner to reject prints.
• If you have cuts, burns, or injuries on your fingers, consider postponing until they heal — damaged skin disrupts ridge patterns.
• Confirm your appointment time and location — we're at 2125 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 303, Miami, FL 33137. Open 7 days, 8AM–9PM.
• Arrive 5 minutes early — this gives you time to park, find the suite, and cool down (sweaty fingers are harder to scan).

Special Cases: What Else You Might Need

• FBI background check for immigration: Know whether you need the check alone or the check + apostille bundle. Immigration applications almost always require both.
• Concealed weapons permit: Confirm with FDACS whether you need electronic Live Scan or physical FD-258 cards. The requirements changed in 2025 — don't assume.
• ATF / FFL application: You'll need .EFT file format or physical FD-258 cards — confirm which your ATF office requires.
• Name change (marriage, divorce): If your ID doesn't match the name on your application, bring the legal name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order).

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