Translate information in this website into another language.
Learn More.»

Live Scan Background Check

What is a Live Scan Background Check?

Live Scan captures inkless, electronic fingerprints in a digital format and transmits them to the Department of Justice. These checks aid in the evaluation of an applicant prior to employment, licensure, or certification by providing a hiring or licensing authority information on active arrests or convictions. During a Live Scan background check, the operator checks the applicant’s identification, enters applicant’s personal descriptor information, and then captures applicants’ fingerprints. Applicant is then assigned an Applicant Transaction Identifier (ATI) used to identify the transaction.

Required Documents

  • To prepare for your Live Scan background check you will need:
      • An application found here  (PDF 650KB) >>
      • A valid form of photo identification
      • Expired IDs will not be accepted
      • A form of accepted payment: Billing Account, Cashier’s Check, Checks, Company Checks, Corporate Accounts, Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Money Orders

Cost of a Live Scan Background Check

NSDI administers a rolling fee of $20.00. *Additional fees may also be required (e.g. license or certification fees).
Fee schedule is included here (PDF 315KB) >>

Scheduling a Live Scan Background Check

  • NSDI accepts appointments ONLY for Live Scan background checks.
  • Weekends are by appointment only (appointments are scheduled during the week).
  • Appointments can be scheduled by calling (619) 265-2959 or contact us.
  • Services are provided Weekdays 9:00am- 4:30 pm by appointment

We accept*:

  • Billing Accounts
  • Cashier’s Check
  • Checks
  • Company Checks
  • Corporate Accounts
  • Credit Cards
  • Debit Cards
  • Money Order

*Eligible individuals may apply for a fee waiver. For more information, visit https://oag.ca.gov/fingerprints/record-review/fee-waiver