Introduction
You've just landed a new job, applied for a professional license, or registered to work with children in Oceanside, and your employer or licensing board has asked you to complete a DOJ Live Scan. If you're wondering what that means, where to go, and what to bring, you're not alone. Many Californians face this requirement without a clear sense of where to start.
This guide walks you through everything — from what to bring to where to go — so you can get it done without the guesswork.
TLDR
- Live Scan is digital fingerprinting transmitted electronically to the California DOJ and FBI for background checks
- Required for licensed professionals, childcare workers, cannabis industry applicants, volunteers, and other regulated positions
- Bring your completed BCIA 8016 form (from your employer/agency) and valid government-issued photo ID
- Total cost includes DOJ/FBI processing fees ($32–$51) plus the provider's rolling fee (varies by location)
- Walk-in Live Scan available at ShipMate+ in Vista (10 miles from Oceanside) — Mon–Fri 9AM–6PM, Sat 9AM–1PM
What Is a DOJ Live Scan and Why Is It Required?
A DOJ Live Scan is "inkless electronic fingerprinting" where digitized fingerprints are transmitted digitally to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI for comparison with fingerprints already on file. This digital process replaced traditional ink-and-roll fingerprinting methods, and producing faster, more reliable results than ink cards.
The California DOJ uses Live Scan to vet applicants for sensitive roles and professional licenses. Results are sent directly to the requesting agency — never to the applicant. According to the California Secretary of State, "Live Scan digital submissions provide the quickest way to submit and process background checks."
DOJ-Only vs. DOJ + FBI Background Checks
The BCIA 8016 form includes separate checkboxes for DOJ and FBI searches — your requesting agency determines which level applies to you:
- Searches California criminal history records only (DOJ-only)
- Searches the FBI's national database, covering federal and nonfederal records from all 50 states (DOJ + FBI)
Roles involving federal oversight, vulnerable populations, or national security clearance typically require both checks. State-only licensing often requires just the DOJ search.
Who Needs a DOJ Live Scan in California?
California law authorizes certain governmental and private organizations to conduct criminal background checks to determine the suitability of applicants for employment, professional licenses, or positions serving children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities.
Common Categories Requiring Live Scan:
- Teachers, nurses, doctors, real estate agents, pharmacists, and other licensed professionals
- Daycare employees, senior care facility staff, and foster parents
- Dispensary workers, cultivation facility employees, and cannabis delivery drivers
- Law enforcement officers, security guards, and government contractors
- Job seekers in any role where the employer requires background clearance
Business and Professions Code Section 144 designates 31 specific licensing boards that must require applicant fingerprints. These include the Medical Board, Board of Registered Nursing, Dental Board, Contractors State License Board, and California Board of Accountancy.
The requesting entity — your employer, licensing board, school district, or state agency — determines whether a Live Scan is required and provides the specific form you'll need. You cannot initiate the process without that agency authorization. Once you have your form in hand, finding an authorized Live Scan location near you is the next step.
What to Bring to Your Live Scan Appointment
Request for Live Scan Service Form (BCIA 8016)
The single most important document is the BCIA 8016 form, which must be provided by your requesting agency or employer. This form contains key pre-filled fields the Live Scan operator needs to submit your prints correctly:
- ORI number (Organization Identifier assigned by DOJ)
- Authorized Applicant Type (your role category)
- Level of Service (DOJ only or DOJ + FBI)
Without this completed form, the Live Scan operator cannot process your fingerprints. Contact your requesting agency right away if you haven't received it.
Valid Government-Issued Photo ID
You must present current, unexpired photo identification. Acceptable forms include:
- California driver's license
- State ID card
- U.S. passport
- Military ID
- Out-of-state driver's license
Your ID should include a photograph, physical description, signature, and identifying number. The DOJ recommends IDs issued within the past 5 years per California Civil Code.
Payment
Bring payment for the rolling fee (paid to the Live Scan provider) plus DOJ/FBI processing fees. Confirm accepted methods with your provider before you arrive — common options include:
- Cash
- Credit or debit card
- Check (not accepted everywhere)
Practical Tips
- Wash and thoroughly dry your hands beforehand — moisture or dirt can affect print quality
- Tell the technician upfront if you have arthritis, worn fingertips, skin conditions, or missing digits so they can adjust their technique and reduce rejection risk
How the DOJ Live Scan Process Works Step by Step
Step 1: Obtain and Complete Your Live Scan Request Form
Your employer or agency provides the BCIA 8016 form with agency-specific fields pre-filled. You complete the applicant section with your name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, and physical description. Sign the form before arriving—unsigned forms will be rejected.
Step 2: Arrive at the Live Scan Provider
The technician verifies your ID and reviews the form for completeness. Missing information or incorrect pre-filled fields can delay processing. The entire in-person session typically takes 10 minutes.
Step 3: Digital Fingerprint Capture
The technician uses a specialized scanner to capture all ten fingerprints electronically—no ink required. Expect re-scans on some fingers until the quality meets DOJ submission standards.
Step 4: Secure Electronic Transmission to DOJ/FBI
Once prints are captured and quality-checked, they're securely transmitted to the California DOJ and FBI (if required). You receive an Applicant Transaction Identifier (ATI) number—a 10-digit tracking number for your submission.
Step 5: Results Delivered to Requesting Agency
The DOJ processes results and sends them directly to your requesting agency via the Applicant Agency Justice Connection (AAJC) portal or U.S. Mail. Results go to the agency—not to you directly. Contact your requesting agency for status updates.
How long does processing take? The Commission on Teacher Credentialing states DOJ processing typically takes 3-7 days for clean records, though it "may be significantly longer." The DOJ instructs applicants to allow at least 30 days before making status inquiries. No expedited processing is available.
How Much Does a Live Scan Cost in California?
Live Scan costs include two components:
DOJ/FBI Processing Fees (Set by the State)
Current DOJ fee schedules list the following general fees:
- DOJ processing fee: $32
- FBI processing fee: $17-$19 (verify current amount with your provider)
- Total for DOJ + FBI: Approximately $49-$51
Fees vary by applicant category. For example, nonprofit human resource agency employees pay $0 for the DOJ check, while large childcare facilities may pay $42 for DOJ plus an additional CACI (Child Abuse Central Index) fee.
Live Scan Rolling Fee (Set by Provider)
The rolling fee is what the Live Scan operator charges to capture and transmit your prints. It's not state-regulated, so it varies by location. Expect $20-$75 depending on your provider and area.
For a standard employment check (DOJ + FBI), expect to pay $70-$120 total — that's $32 DOJ + $17-$19 FBI + $20-$75 rolling fee.
Requesting your own criminal history record costs less: a flat $25 DOJ processing fee plus the provider's rolling fee. Either way, check with your employer or licensing agency before paying — many reimburse Live Scan costs in full.
Where to Get DOJ Live Scan Near Oceanside, CA
What to Look For in a Live Scan Provider
Choose a DOJ-authorized provider with:
- Trained, certified technicians
- Quality digital scanning equipment
- Walk-in availability (if you need same-day service)
- Convenient location and hours
- Clear pricing and accepted payment methods
Provider Types in the Oceanside Area
Authorized Live Scan providers near Oceanside include:
- Dedicated fingerprinting offices
- Pack-and-ship stores (PostalAnnex locations)
- Postal service centers
- UPS/FedEx authorized locations
- Police departments (check availability for public services)
Use the official DOJ Live Scan location finder to search for authorized providers by zip code.
ShipMate+ in Vista, CA – Convenient for Oceanside Residents
ShipMate+ in Vista offers Live Scan digital fingerprinting services just 10 miles from Oceanside—approximately 15 minutes by car. Located at 1929 W Vista Way Suite F, Vista, CA 92083, ShipMate+ serves North San Diego County residents with extended weekday hours:
- Monday-Friday: 9AM-6PM
- Saturday: 9AM-1PM
- Sunday: Closed
Walk-ins are welcome, so you can get scanned without scheduling ahead or taking a full day off work. For questions about current rolling fees, accepted payment methods, or same-day processing, call (760) 295-1074 or email info@shipmateplus.com.
ShipMate+ transmits digital prints directly to the DOJ and FBI, which is faster and more accurate than ink-based card submissions. The service is a common stop for healthcare workers, teachers, government employees, and cannabis license applicants throughout North San Diego County.
Before You Visit Any Provider
Call ahead to confirm:
- Current hours of operation
- Walk-in availability vs. appointment requirements
- Accepted payment methods (cash, card, check)
- Rolling fee amount
- Ability to process your specific scan type (DOJ only vs. DOJ + FBI)
Pro Tip: Visit walk-in providers early in the day to ensure same-business-day transmission to the DOJ, potentially speeding up your background check clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to do a Live Scan in California?
Total cost includes the DOJ processing fee ($32), FBI processing fee ($17-$19 if required), and the provider's rolling fee (varies by location, typically $20-$75). Expect $50-$120 total depending on whether you need DOJ-only or DOJ + FBI. Call your provider ahead of time to confirm current fees.
How do I request a Live Scan service in CA?
You cannot self-request a Live Scan. Your employer, licensing board, or requesting agency must provide you with a completed BCIA 8016 form pre-filled with their ORI number and applicant type. Bring this form and valid photo ID to any DOJ-authorized Live Scan provider near you.
What do I need to bring to a Live Scan appointment in California?
Bring three things to your appointment:
- BCIA 8016 form — provided by your requesting agency with ORI number and applicant type already filled in
- Valid government-issued photo ID — driver's license or passport
- Payment — for both the processing fees and the provider's rolling fee
What shows up on a DOJ Live Scan?
The DOJ report includes California criminal history records such as arrests, charges, convictions, and dispositions on file with the state. If an FBI check is also requested, it adds records from other states and federal databases, covering nationwide criminal history.
How long does it take to get DOJ Live Scan results in California?
Results are typically processed by the DOJ within 3-7 business days for clean records with no criminal history hits. The DOJ instructs applicants to allow a minimum of 30 days before making status inquiries. Results are sent directly to your requesting agency, not to you.
Can I walk in for Live Scan fingerprinting without an appointment?
Walk-in availability varies by provider. Some accept walk-ins during all business hours, while others require appointments. ShipMate+ — located in Vista, just minutes from Oceanside — accepts walk-ins Monday–Friday 9AM–6PM and Saturday 9AM–1PM. Call ahead to confirm availability before making the trip.
