If you’ve been told you need to get fingerprinted for a job, license, or background check, you may have come across two different methods: LiveScan and traditional ink fingerprinting. While both methods aim to capture your fingerprints for identity verification or background checks, they work quite differently—and one is far more modern, efficient, and widely used today.
So, what’s the difference between LiveScan and traditional ink fingerprinting? And which one do you actually need? Let’s break it down.
What Is Traditional Ink Fingerprinting?
Traditional fingerprinting is what most people imagine: you press your fingers onto an ink pad and then roll them onto a fingerprint card. The prints are then either physically mailed or scanned and submitted to the appropriate agency.
This method has been used for decades and is still accepted in some circumstances, especially for:
- Out-of-state background checks
- Federal applications (like the FBI’s FD-258 card)
- Certain international requirements
However, the ink method has some drawbacks—especially when compared to LiveScan.
What Is LiveScan Fingerprinting?
LiveScan is a digital method of fingerprint capture. Instead of ink and paper, your fingerprints are scanned electronically and submitted directly to the requesting agency—like the FBI, Department of Justice (DOJ), or a state licensing board—through a secure online system.
This is the fingerprinting method most commonly used today in states like New Jersey and across the U.S., especially when background checks are tied to employment, professional licensing, or volunteer clearance.
Key Differences Between LiveScan and Ink Fingerprinting
| Feature | LiveScan Fingerprinting | Traditional Ink Fingerprinting |
| Method | Digital scan | Ink rolled on paper |
| Submission | Sent electronically | Mailed or scanned manually |
| Speed | Fast results (sometimes within 24–72 hours) | Slower (can take weeks) |
| Accuracy | High accuracy; less chance of rejection | Prone to smudging and errors |
| Cleanliness | No mess, no ink | Hands get messy with ink |
| Cost | Often higher due to digital processing | Generally lower for manual cards |
| Usage | Most jobs, licenses, and background checks | Federal, out-of-state, or special requests |
Pros and Cons of Each Method
✅ Pros of LiveScan
- Faster results: No mailing delays; submissions go straight to the agency.
- Lower rejection rate: The digital system can identify poor-quality prints before submission, reducing resubmissions.
- Secure: Data is encrypted and sent directly through secure channels.
- User-friendly: No ink, no paper, and quick appointments.
❌ Cons of LiveScan
- Location-specific: You usually must go to a certified LiveScan provider in your state.
- Not accepted everywhere: Some agencies (especially federal or out-of-state) still require traditional ink cards.
✅ Pros of Traditional Ink
- Accepted everywhere: Still the gold standard for FBI applications, international travel, and out-of-state submissions.
- Portable: You can take the card and send it yourself.
- Great for specific forms: Like the FD-258, FINRA cards, or immigration forms.
❌ Cons of Traditional Ink
- Messy: Ink can smudge easily or stain your hands and clothing.
- Higher rejection rate: Bad prints, smears, or uneven pressure can cause delays.
- Slower processing time: Mailing and manual scanning add time to the process.
Which One Do You Need?
The type of fingerprinting you need depends on who is requesting it.
➤ Choose LiveScan if:
- You’re applying for a job, license, or volunteer position in your state.
- Your employer or licensing board provided you with a LiveScan request form.
- You’re required to submit fingerprints to the DOJ or other state agency electronically.
➤ Choose Ink Fingerprinting if:
- You’re submitting fingerprints for an FBI background check (via mail).
- You’re applying for a license or position in another state or country.
- You were specifically told to use a fingerprint card (such as the FD-258).
Still not sure? A quick call to the requesting agency—or your fingerprinting provider—can clear things up fast.
Can a Notary Service Help With Both?
Yes! Many modern notary services—like ours—offer both LiveScan and traditional ink fingerprinting, making it easy for clients to choose the right option based on their needs.
Some clients even need both services at once: LiveScan for employment background checks and notary services for affidavits or ID verifications. That’s why bundling LiveScan with notary offerings is not just convenient—it saves you time and multiple trips.
Final Thoughts
LiveScan and ink fingerprinting serve the same basic purpose: collecting your fingerprints for identity verification and background checks. But how they get the job done is very different.
If speed, accuracy, and convenience matter most, LiveScan is the clear winner. But if your situation involves federal paperwork, international applications, or a specific request for inked fingerprint cards, traditional ink still has its place.
At our office, we offer LiveScan and ink fingerprinting, plus on-site notary services—all in one visit. Whether you’re getting fingerprinted for work, licensing, or legal needs, we’ll help you choose the right method and make the process quick and stress-free. We recommend newport beach livescan.
