What Does a Live Scan Check For?
Live Scan is a technology used for capturing fingerprints and submitting them electronically to the concerned authorities for background checks. It is commonly used for various purposes such as employment, licensing, and certification processes. A Live Scan check involves scanning an individual’s fingerprints and conducting a comprehensive search through various databases to check for any criminal records or other relevant information. This article will delve into the details of what a Live Scan check entails and answer some common questions related to the process.
Live Scan checks are primarily performed to ensure the safety and security of individuals and organizations. By conducting a Live Scan check, employers, licensing agencies, and other entities can make informed decisions about an individual’s suitability for a particular position or opportunity. The process helps identify any criminal history, prior convictions, or other relevant information that might impact the individual’s eligibility or credibility.
The Live Scan process includes capturing an individual’s fingerprints using a special scanner. These fingerprints are then submitted electronically to law enforcement agencies, such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), where they are compared against a vast database of known criminal records. The scan also checks for any outstanding warrants, sex offender registrations, and other relevant information.
Common Questions and Answers:
1. Who requires a Live Scan check?
Live Scan checks are often required by employers, licensing agencies, and organizations that need to ensure the trustworthiness and reliability of individuals in various positions or roles.
2. What information is needed for a Live Scan check?
To perform a Live Scan check, the individual’s personal information, such as name, date of birth, and Social Security number, is required. Additionally, the individual needs to provide a valid form of identification.
3. How long does a Live Scan check take?
The actual Live Scan process only takes a few minutes. However, the overall time for processing the results may vary. Typically, it takes a few days to a few weeks to receive the results, depending on the agency and the depth of the background check required.
4. What happens if a criminal record is found?
If a criminal record is found during the Live Scan check, it is up to the requesting agency to decide how to proceed. Depending on the nature and severity of the offense, the individual’s eligibility for employment, licensing, or certification may be affected.
5. Can Live Scan checks be done for immigration purposes?
Yes, Live Scan checks can be performed for immigration purposes, especially for individuals applying for visas or seeking naturalization.
6. Is Live Scan the same as a background check?
Live Scan is a type of background check that focuses on an individual’s criminal history by comparing their fingerprints against a database of known records. However, a background check can also include other aspects such as employment history, credit reports, and educational verification.
7. Can a Live Scan check be done on minors?
Yes, Live Scan checks can be conducted on minors if required by law or for specific purposes, such as employment in certain industries.
8. How much does a Live Scan check cost?
The cost of a Live Scan check may vary depending on the agency or service provider. It typically includes a processing fee set by the government, along with any additional fees charged by the service provider.
9. Is Live Scan check information confidential?
Yes, Live Scan check information is usually treated as confidential and is subject to privacy laws and regulations.
10. Can Live Scan checks be contested or appealed?
If an individual believes there has been an error in their Live Scan check, they may have the right to contest or appeal the results. The exact process may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the agency conducting the check.
11. How far back does a Live Scan check go?
The scope and depth of a Live Scan check can vary depending on the requesting agency’s requirements. Generally, it covers the individual’s entire criminal history, including any convictions or arrests.
12. Can a Live Scan check be used for international background checks?
Live Scan checks primarily focus on domestic criminal records. However, some countries may accept Live Scan results as part of their background check requirements for specific purposes, such as employment or visa applications.
13. Are Live Scan checks foolproof?
While Live Scan checks are highly effective in identifying criminal records, they are not foolproof. There may be instances where certain records are not captured or discrepancies arise. It is always recommended to supplement Live Scan checks with other forms of background screening to ensure comprehensive results.
In conclusion, Live Scan checks play a crucial role in safeguarding individuals and organizations by providing valuable information about an individual’s criminal history. The process involves capturing fingerprints and conducting thorough searches through various databases. By answering common questions related to Live Scan checks, individuals can gain a better understanding of the process and its significance in different contexts.