When it comes to LiveScan fingerprinting, one of the most important parts of the process—besides capturing your fingerprints—is verifying your identity. Without proper identity verification, your prints can’t be submitted, and your background check won’t go through. That’s where notary services often come into play.
While not every LiveScan appointment requires a notary, there are certain situations where notarized identity verification is essential. In this blog post, we’ll explore the intersection of LiveScan fingerprinting and notary services, and when you might need both to complete your application, job onboarding, or licensing process.
Why Is Identity Verification So Important in LiveScan Fingerprinting?
LiveScan fingerprinting is a digital process used to submit your fingerprints to state and federal agencies for criminal background checks. These checks are used for:
- Employment
- Professional licenses
- Volunteer roles
- Immigration processes
- Firearm permits
- Adoption and foster care
Because this data is sensitive and tied to your criminal history, agencies must ensure that the person being fingerprinted is who they claim to be. Any mistake in identifying someone—or worse, identity fraud—can have serious consequences for both the individual and the requesting agency.
To prevent this, the first step in any LiveScan appointment is always verifying the applicant’s identity.
What Does Identity Verification Typically Involve?
At most LiveScan appointments, a technician will ask you to provide a valid, government-issued photo ID—such as a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID. The technician will check that the ID:
- Matches the name on the fingerprinting request form
- Is not expired
- Shows a clear photo and details
This is often enough for standard LiveScan fingerprinting appointments. But in some cases, especially for remote fingerprinting, out-of-state applicants, or certain legal proceedings, an added layer of verification is required: a notarized identity confirmation.
When Do You Need a Notary with Your LiveScan Fingerprinting?
There are a few situations where notarization is either required or highly recommended as part of the LiveScan process:
1. Out-of-State or Remote Applicants
If you’re applying for a background check or license in a different state (for example, you’re in New Jersey applying for a license in California), the requesting agency may ask you to verify your identity with a notary before your prints are submitted—especially if you’re using ink cards or mailing forms.
In these cases, a notary will confirm that:
- You are who you say you are
- You presented valid ID
- You signed the fingerprint card or form in their presence
2. FD-258 Ink Card Submissions
When you submit fingerprint cards (like the FBI FD-258 form) through the mail, agencies often require a notarized identity verification to accompany the card. This provides an additional layer of security when the process isn’t being handled in person by a certified LiveScan technician.
3. Legal and Immigration Proceedings
Some legal or immigration processes may call for both fingerprinting and notarized identity affidavits. For example:
- Visa or green card applications
- Adoption or custody cases
- Name change petitions
Combining fingerprinting and notarization in one appointment can save time and ensure compliance with legal requirements.
4. High-Security Jobs and Government Clearances
Applicants for sensitive government positions or private security jobs may be required to have their identity verified through both LiveScan and a notarized statement, especially when working with federal agencies or contractors.
How Notary Services Work During LiveScan Appointments
In situations where notarization is required, your LiveScan provider may offer on-site notary services. This means that once your fingerprints are captured, the notary can:
- Verify your identity using your ID
- Witness your signature on any necessary forms
- Provide an official notarized document confirming your identity
This dual service is especially helpful when you’re mailing documents to another state, submitting to a federal agency, or simply want an extra layer of confirmation for peace of mind.
Benefits of Using a Notary During Your LiveScan Appointment
- ✅ Convenience: Get everything done in one visit—no need to find a separate notary.
- ✅ Compliance: Ensure you meet all agency or employer requirements for notarized identity verification.
- ✅ Peace of Mind: Avoid delays, rejections, or requests for additional paperwork.
- ✅ Professional Accuracy: Certified notaries follow strict state guidelines to make sure your documents are properly executed.
Final Thoughts
LiveScan fingerprinting is an essential step in today’s background checks, but identity verification is just as crucial. In most cases, a valid ID will be enough—but in certain situations, having a notary public on-site can make the difference between a smooth submission and a rejected application.
Whether you’re applying out of state, submitting ink cards, or handling legal matters, pairing LiveScan with notary services provides a seamless, secure solution. We recommend newport beach livescan.
