If you’ve been asked to complete fingerprinting for a job, license, or volunteer position, one of the first questions you probably have is:
“How long does Live Scan take?”
If you’re located in Los Angeles or the San Fernando Valley, here’s exactly what you can expect from start to finish.
How Long Does the Live Scan Appointment Take?
The actual fingerprinting process is very quick.
In most cases:
Fingerprint capture takes 5–10 minutes
Total appointment time is usually 10–15 minutes
Live Scan uses a digital fingerprint scanner instead of ink cards, which makes the process faster, cleaner, and more accurate.
If you bring the correct documents and identification, your appointment should be completed quickly.
What Can Affect Appointment Time?
Although the fingerprinting itself is fast, a few factors can affect your total visit time:
Not bringing the correct Live Scan request form
Missing or invalid ID
Large crowds during peak hours
Poor fingerprint quality (very dry or worn fingerprints)
Choosing an experienced Live Scan provider in Los Angeles helps reduce delays and minimize the risk of fingerprint rejection.
How Long Does It Take to Get Live Scan Results?
This is different from the appointment time.
Processing times depend on the agency requesting your background check.
Typical Processing Times:
DOJ only submission: Often processed within a few days
DOJ + FBI submission: May take longer
State licensing agencies: Timing varies
In most cases, results are sent directly to the requesting organization — not to you.
Why Do Some Live Scan Results Take Longer?
Occasionally, background check processing may take longer due to:
High volume at the Department of Justice
Manual review of fingerprint quality
Record matching issues
Agency backlog
Once fingerprints are submitted, processing time is controlled by the DOJ or FBI — not the Live Scan provider.
Live Scan in the San Fernando Valley & Los Angeles
Residents searching for Live Scan services in:
Agoura Hills
Calabasas
Canoga Park
Chatsworth
Encino
Malibu
Northridge
Reseda
Tarzana
Topanga
West Hills
Winnetka
Woodland Hills
can typically complete their fingerprinting appointment in under 15 minutes when prepared properly.
If you’re searching for “Live Scan Los Angeles near me,” choosing a convenient and experienced provider can save you time and help avoid delays.
Tips to Speed Up Your Live Scan Appointment
To make your appointment as fast as possible:
✔ Bring your completed Request for Live Scan Service form
✔ Bring a valid government-issued photo ID
✔ Avoid peak hours if possible
✔ Ensure hands are clean and moisturized (dry skin can affect fingerprint clarity)
Being prepared helps ensure the process goes smoothly.
Final Thoughts
So, how long does Live Scan take in Los Angeles?
The appointment itself: usually 10–15 minutes
Processing time: varies by agency
If you’re preparing for employment, licensing, or certification, scheduling your Live Scan early can help prevent delays in your approval process.
To learn more about our services or schedule an appointment, visit our Live Scan Los Angeles service page.
