Call (858) 350-1275 · Walk-ins welcome Walk-ins welcome, 7 days a week Call (858) 350-1275 →
?
Home / Fingerprinting / Fingerprinting FAQs
Live Scan & Ink Card

Live Scan Fingerprinting FAQs

Answers to the most common questions about live scan and traditional FBI ink card fingerprinting in San Diego.

Frequently Asked

Your fingerprinting questions, answered

Still have a question? Call (858) 350-1275 and we'll help you out.

What is Live Scan Fingerprinting?+

Live Scan is an inkless fingerprinting process where fingerprints are electronically transmitted to the Department of Justice for background screening. Ink fingerprinting is still required in many states. As a result of legislation passed in 1997, the California Department of Justice (CA-DOJ) developed the automated background check process, which requires Live Scan fingerprints for criminal history background checks that may be required as a condition of employment. Live Scan technology replaces the ink process of recording fingerprint images. The CA-DOJ may also forward Live Scan fingerprints to the FBI if required.

Who Needs Live Scan?+

Live Scan may be required as a condition of employment for teachers, care givers, contractors, security guards, nurses, doctors, surgeons, real estate licensees, appraisers, notaries, DMV licensed professionals, foster parents, stock brokers, volunteers, and anyone applying for a professional licensing, certification, or permit. Persons applying for foreign adoptions or VISA/immigration clearances may also need Live Scan processing.

What is Required for Live Scan Processing?+

You must present the “Request for Fingerprinting Services” form from your employment organization, along with a valid photo ID. This includes one of the following: DMV Driver's License or ID (out-of-state licenses accepted), Passport, Military ID Card, or Alien Registration Card / Green Card Photo ID Card. Expired ID information cannot be accepted.

What are the Benefits of Live Scan Service?+

The Live Scan service center provides a convenient means of capturing your fingerprints. Your fingerprints are transmitted directly to the CA-DOJ, so your background check may be completed quickly.

How Does the Process Work?+

A trained and certified technician will scan your fingerprints using a Live Scan device. The fingerprinting session takes five to ten minutes, and your prints are immediately sent via electronic transmission to the appropriate FBI-certified channeling agencies for background processing. The results of the background check are returned to the original requesting agency.

How Do I Check My Live Scan Results?+

The results of your background check are made available to the requesting agency and may take 7–10 business days to process. You can check with the requesting agency, or call the Department of Justice automated service line at (916) 222-4557. Make sure you have your birth date and ATI number handy — the ATI number is printed on the bottom of your Request for Live Scan form.

Walk-ins Welcome

Hours of operation

We have the most convenient and extended walk-in hours available in San Diego County.

Thursday & Friday

9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Still open into the evening.

Saturday & Sunday

Sat 9–5 · Sun 10–4

Open weekends when other offices are closed.

Walk-ins accepted during all business hours above. Corporate invoicing available — call (858) 350-1275 for details.

Find us at Postal Annex (Del Mar Live Scans) 3830 Valley Centre Dr., Ste 705, San Diego, CA 92130
Get Directions →
Our Services

One stop for fingerprinting, notary, mail & more

Everything you need in San Diego County, all in one location.

Live Scan & Ink Card Fingerprinting

DOJ certified. Employment, licensing, and certification fingerprinting.

Private Mailbox Rentals

A real physical address for personal or business use — not a PO Box.

Notary Services

Available 7 days a week for mortgages, deeds, POAs, affidavits & more.

Passport Photos

Government-compliant photos, printed on-site, ready in minutes.

Package Receiving

Give porch pirates the boot — secure receiving for all major carriers.

How It Works

Getting fingerprinted is easy

Most trained and professional service in San Diego County.

Walk-in Service

Normally in and out within 15 minutes. Just walk in during business hours.

Mobile Fingerprinting

No added charge for groups of 10+ within a 10-mile radius. Call for a quote.

Plan Your Visit

Have questions? Call (858) 350-1275 or contact us online before you come in.

Flexible Payment

Cash and all major credit, debit, and ATM cards. Corporate invoicing available.

One Stop, Many Services

Everything under one roof in Del Mar

Whether you need live scan fingerprinting, traditional FBI ink card fingerprinting, notary services, passport photos, or a private mailbox, we're happy to help — in person or over the phone.

Not sure which service you need, or want a price quote before you come in? Give us a call and a qualified staff member will walk you through it.

5Services, one location
7Days a week, walk-in
20+Years serving San Diego County
Del Mar Live Scans storefront
★★★★★ 4.8 out of 5 · 108 Google reviews
What Customers Say

Trusted by Del Mar for 20+ years

Real reviews from real mailbox & live scan customers.

★★★★★

"I've had a mailbox here for 25 years. Kirk has an amazing ability to hire and train excellent staff. Always friendly and helpful, even when busy."

Nadia G. · Yelp
★★★★★

"I love this place. They do it all here — shipping, faxing, mailboxes with a personal address, package drop-offs for all carriers. The owner and manager are amazing."

David N. · Yelp
★★★★★

"Fast, easy, friendly — even 10 minutes before closing. Much more extensive hours than most other providers. Thank you!"

Dave G. · Google
★★★★★

"Excellent service and friendly staff. Notary public and mailbox service highly recommended!"

Gary K. · Google
Good to Know

Walk-ins welcome, 7 days a week

DOJ & FBI Certified

Fingerprints transmitted electronically to DOJ, FBI, and CACI when applicable.

Have Questions?

Speak with a qualified staff member — call (858) 350-1275 or contact us online.

Flexible Payments

Cash and all major Credit, Debit & ATM cards accepted. Corporate invoicing available.

Ready to get fingerprinted?

Walk-ins welcome 7 days a week — no appointment needed.

Call Now
Live Scan or Ink Card — $37
Walk-ins welcome, 7 days a week · Usually done in 15 minutes
Call Now — (858) 350-1275