Live Scan Fingerprinting vs. Ink Fingerprinting: Why Digital Wins
When it comes to fingerprinting, not all methods are created equal. Traditional ink fingerprinting may have been the standard for decades, but today, most agencies and employers prefer Live Scan fingerprinting—a faster, cleaner, and more reliable option.
At Mobile Biometrics, we specialize in Live Scan fingerprinting services—offering both mobile and in-office options—to deliver the most efficient and accurate fingerprinting experience available.
What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting?
Live Scan fingerprinting uses digital scanning technology to capture your fingerprints electronically and send them directly to authorized agencies like the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Unlike ink fingerprinting, which involves rolling your fingers in ink and pressing them onto a paper card, Live Scan is completely inkless and digitally secure.
Key Benefits of Live Scan Fingerprinting Over Ink
✅ 1. Speed and Efficiency
Live Scan is much faster than ink fingerprinting. There’s no drying time, no smudging, and your digital prints are instantly transmitted to the appropriate agency.
At Mobile Biometrics, our clients often receive confirmation of submission within minutes—and background check results in as little as 24 to 72 hours.
✅ 2. Enhanced Accuracy
Ink prints can smudge, be rejected due to poor image quality, or require re-printing. Live Scan technology captures high-resolution, biometric-grade images, reducing the risk of rejection and speeding up agency processing.
✅ 3. Secure Digital Transmission
Live Scan submissions are encrypted and transmitted directly to the FBI, DOJ, or other requesting agencies, ensuring your personal information is handled with the highest level of security.
✅ 4. Environmentally Friendly
Because Live Scan doesn’t use ink or fingerprint cards, it produces less waste and is more environmentally sustainable than traditional methods.
✅ 5. Widely Accepted and Required
In states like California, Live Scan is the required fingerprinting method for most jobs, professional licenses, and legal processes. It is now the industry standard for:
Employment background checks
Professional licensing (healthcare, real estate, education, etc.)
Security and law enforcement
Firearm permits
Volunteer and nonprofit work
Court-ordered fingerprinting
When Ink Fingerprinting May Still Be Needed
While Live Scan is preferred for most use cases, ink fingerprinting may still be required in limited scenarios:
Out-of-state or federal applications that require fingerprint cards (FD-258)
International background checks
Immigration services outside the U.S.
At Mobile Biometrics, we can advise you on the correct method based on your needs—and may even offer both options depending on your requirements.
Why Choose Mobile Biometrics?
Live Scan and ink fingerprinting services available
Mobile fingerprinting across the Greater Chicago Area
In-office appointments available
FBI and DOJ approved
Fast, professional, and certified technicians
Group services for businesses and organizations
We make fingerprinting easy, whether you come to us or we come to you.
Schedule Your Live Scan Appointment Today
When accuracy, speed, and compliance matter, Live Scan fingerprinting is the smart choice—and Mobile Biometrics is your trusted provider.
📞 Call now or book online to schedule your Live Scan or ink fingerprinting appointment.