California Background Check Information
Learn about the Background Check Process in the state of California.
PrintScan California Background Check Guide
The fingerprinting and background check process can be complicated. We decided to put together this guide as a quick reference to make your [state name] fingerprinting experience easier.
California Fingerprinting and Background Check Information
Agency with the authority to run the background check process:
California Department of Justice.
State statute (Pub. L. 92-544) or authority exists to authorize submission of CJIS background checks to the FBI database for vendors and private sector contractors who have direct access to criminal justice information/systems.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is unaware of any specific statutes authorizing submission of CJIS information to the FBI database, however, pursuant to Section 11105.2 California Penal Code, the CHP is allowed to conduct criminal history checks prior to hiring their employees and for certain programs administered by the CHP.
Authorized channelers?
There are authorized channelers.
Required documents to initiate a background check:
Bureau of Criminal Information and Analysis (BCIA) form 8106, Request for Live Scan Service, and State/Government-issued identification.
Preferred method of submission of required information.
The DOJ uses a Secure Mail email system or US Postal Service.
Are fingerprint cards from outside the state accepted?
The DOJ accepts ink rolled fingerprint cards when the applicant is applying from out-of-state.
Process for non-criminal justice checks:
The applicant will complete the appropriate applications which includes disclosure of all misdemeanor and felony convictions, references, and fingerprint submissions. Other information may be required depending on the position and program.
Fingerprints are required anytime a person applies for employment or applies for one of the programs administered by the Department. Depending on the program, the person may need to submit fingerprints for California DOJ and FBI. A state card is required in addition to the FD258 only if the applicant is in another state and is submitting fingerprints. Fingerprints may be submitted on cards only if applying from out of state. DOJ only accepts electronic submissions when the applicant is applying from within California.
Time required for obtaining results of a non-criminal-justice background check.
DOJ is required to send a response within 72 hours of receiving a Live Scan request. If the request cannot be completed within the 72 hours, a “Delay Notification” is sent. Completed results are typically completed within 30 days.
Fees involved:
Private vendors and local law enforcement agencies typically charge a rolling fee to cover the fingerprinting administration costs for a dedicated employee. The fee for running checks against state repository databases is $32.00. The fee for running checks against FBI databases is $17.00. It is unknown exactly what type of payment is accepted, however, it is believed all forms are accepted depending on where the live scan is conducted. If you are looking for private vendors, please search our map finder or search for the city you are located in with "fingerprinting" attached to the beginning of it. Example: "Fingerprinting San Jose"
Does the state offer a central repository that allows for the saving of fingerprints and background check information that can be shared with other agencies within the state to indicate that an individual has already been approved and a background check successfully completed?
Fingerprint submissions are program-specific. The results are not shared between entities. Fingerprints are required to be submitted to each entity.
Does the state have a RapBack program? If so, are there fees for participating?
N/A
Other notes or relevant information.
N/A
Frequently Asked Questions
We know you have questions, we can answer them!
Q. Does the FBI have my fingerprints?
If you have ever been fingerprinted to get a license or a background check then the FBI does keep a record of your fingerprints in their criminal database.
Q. How long does an FBI fingerprinting session take?
Printscan's fingerprinting sessions for FBI background checks average at 20 minutes.
Q. How far back does an FBI background check go?
An FBI background check goes back for the entire applicants lifetime.
Q. How do I know if I need my FBI background check apostilled?
If the country you wish to visit is part of the Hauge convention then you will need to apostille your FBI background check.
Q. What payment do you accept?
We accept cash, or any major credit card. (Visa/Mastercard/Discovery/American Express)
