Do Post Offices Do Fingerprinting? Yes, they do. The United States Postal Service offers electronic fingerprinting at about 180 post office locations across 45 states and Washington, D.C. These sites use IDEMIA’s Live Scan technology to capture ten fingerprints in under five minutes. Most locations can schedule same-day FBI background checks. The service started as a pilot in 2020 and has grown steadily. It helps people applying for jobs, licenses, or security clearances. Fingerprinting is not available at every post office. Only select branches have the equipment and trained staff. You must bring specific documents and pay a fee. This page explains where to go, what to bring, how much it costs, and how the process works.
Where Can You Get Fingerprinted at a Post Office?
Fingerprinting is available at roughly 180 USPS locations nationwide. These are spread across 45 states and the District of Columbia. Not all post offices offer this service. The program began in 2020 with three pilot sites in Virginia, Texas, and California. In 2021, USPS added 400–500 more branches under a $12 million contract with IDEMIA. That expansion covered about 1.5% of all U.S. post offices. Each site uses IDEMIA’s portable biometric scanner. The device captures ten-print impressions quickly and securely. An interactive map on the USPS website shows which locations offer Live Scan, ink card services, or both. You can filter by state, ZIP code, or service type. The map also marks nearby PrintScan offices for extra support. Always check ahead. Call the branch or use the online scheduler to confirm availability.
How Does USPS Fingerprinting Work?
The process is fast and digital. A trained postal employee uses an IDEMIA Live Scan machine. They place your fingers one by one on the scanner. The device captures high-quality images of all ten fingerprints. The data uploads instantly to the FBI’s CJIS system. No paper cards are needed. The whole scan takes less than five minutes. After scanning, you get a printed receipt. Your fingerprints are sent directly to the FBI for processing. This cuts down wait times. Traditional ink-and-card submissions take longer because they must be mailed and manually scanned. With Live Scan, results often come back in 2–3 days instead of 10. The system also reduces errors. Digital scans are clearer than ink impressions. That means fewer rejections from the FBI.
What Do You Need to Bring?
You must bring three things: a completed FBI fingerprint request form, a valid government-issued photo ID, and a signed consent affidavit. The request form is usually provided by your employer, licensing board, or agency. It includes your personal details and the reason for the background check. Acceptable IDs include a driver’s license, passport, or state ID card. Non-U.S. citizens must also bring a permanent resident card (green card). Without these documents, the post office cannot perform the service. You’ll sign a consent form allowing the FBI to receive your biometric data. Wear short sleeves so your fingertips are easy to access. Avoid hand lotions or powders—they can blur the fingerprint ridges. If you’re unsure about your documents, call the post office ahead of time.
How Much Does It Cost?
The fee is $50 for the electronic capture. This covers the IDEMIA cartridge, secure transmission to the FBI, and your receipt. You pay this at the counter with cash, debit, or credit. The FBI also charges a $14 processing fee. This appears separately on your final report. The total cost is $64. USPS does not charge extra for appointments. However, if you choose to mail an ink fingerprint card instead, there’s no USPS fee—but mailing adds about 48 hours to processing. Some private companies like PrintScan charge different rates. But at USPS, the price is fixed. Always ask for a receipt. Keep it until you receive your background check results.
Who Can Use This Service?
Anyone needing an FBI Identity History Summary Check can use USPS fingerprinting. Common reasons include job applications, teaching licenses, nursing certifications, firearm permits, and federal employment. Schools, hospitals, and government agencies often require it. The service is also open to individuals applying directly to the FBI. Corporations can use it for bulk background checks. There’s no age limit. Minors may need a parent or guardian to sign the consent form. The service is not for criminal investigations or law enforcement use. It’s strictly for civil background checks. If you’re unsure whether your purpose qualifies, contact the requesting agency first.
Live Scan vs. Ink Fingerprint Cards: Which Is Better?
Live Scan is faster, cleaner, and more accurate. Ink cards require rolling fingers in ink and pressing them onto paper. That can smudge or distort prints. Live Scan uses digital sensors. It captures sharp images every time. Results go straight to the FBI. Ink cards must be mailed to Jacksonville, Florida. That adds 2–3 days to processing. Live Scan appointments are often available the same day. Ink cards have no scheduling—you just mail them. But if your jurisdiction accepts only ink cards, you’ll need to use that method. Some post offices offer both. Check your requirements before choosing. Most agencies now prefer digital submissions.
How to Schedule an Appointment
Use the USPS Retail Services appointment system. Go to tools.usps.com/rcas.htm. Enter your location ID or ZIP code. Select “Fingerprinting” as the service. Fill in your name, date of birth, and Social Security Number. The FBI requires this info to match your prints. The system will show available time slots. Book the earliest one that works for you. Walk-ins are not guaranteed. Appointments help reduce wait times. You’ll get a confirmation email. Bring it with you. If you cancel, do so at least 24 hours ahead. Late cancellations may affect future bookings.
Privacy and Data Security
Your data is protected. USPS collects only what’s needed for the FBI check. That includes your name, DOB, SSN, and fingerprint images. The info is stored in an encrypted database. Only authorized personnel can access it. USPS does not sell or share your data with marketers. Fingerprint data is kept for up to 30 days—only as long as needed for processing. After that, it’s deleted. The FBI handles the final report. USPS never sees your background check results. All steps follow federal laws: 39 U.S.C. §§ 401, 403, 404, 407, 411 and 22 U.S.C. § 214. Your privacy is taken seriously.
What If Your Local Post Office Doesn’t Offer Fingerprinting?
You have options. PrintScan runs over 350 certified locations nationwide. Many offer same-day appointments. Call (631) 782-1700 to find one near you. Police departments, sheriff’s offices, and private background-check firms also provide Live Scan. Some notary publics do too. Use the FingerprintZone directory to search by state. It lists only FBI-certified providers. Mobile units can come to your office for group submissions. If you’re in a rural area, you may need to drive up to 30 miles. But most counties have at least two sites. Always confirm hours and requirements before visiting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t show up without an appointment. Not all sites accept walk-ins. Don’t forget your ID or request form. You’ll be turned away. Don’t wear long sleeves that cover your fingertips. Don’t apply lotion before your visit—it blurs prints. Don’t pay with a check. USPS accepts only cash, debit, or credit. Don’t assume every post office does fingerprinting. Check the locator first. Don’t delay if your deadline is near. Processing takes 2–3 days, plus mailing time if needed. Plan ahead.
Why Did USPS Start Offering Fingerprinting?
USPS partnered with the FBI to improve access to background checks. Before 2020, most people had to go to police stations or private vendors. That was inconvenient. USPS has trusted locations in nearly every community. The pilot proved successful. Two D.C. offices processed 3,842 submissions in six months with a 97% acceptance rate. The program expanded due to high demand. It supports federal hiring, licensing, and national security. IDEMIA’s technology made it possible. Their scanners are portable, secure, and easy to use. The cloud platform lets results flow directly to the FBI. This partnership saves time for applicants and agencies alike.
How Fast Are Results?
Most people get their Identity History Summary in 2–3 business days. That’s down from 10 days with ink cards. Real-time FBI checks speed things up. The CJIS system processes digital submissions faster. If there’s a match or issue, it may take longer. But standard cases are quick. You’ll receive your report by mail or electronically, depending on how you applied. Keep your receipt—it has a tracking number. If you don’t hear back in five days, contact the FBI or your requesting agency.
Can Non-Citizens Use USPS Fingerprinting?
Yes. Permanent residents (green card holders) can use the service. You must bring your permanent resident card along with a photo ID. The process is the same. The FBI accepts fingerprints from non-citizens for civil purposes. This includes work visas, professional licenses, and adoption checks. Temporary visitors may not qualify unless authorized by their sponsoring agency. Always check with the organization requesting the background check first.
What Happens If Your Prints Are Rejected?
The FBI may reject prints if they’re unclear, incomplete, or damaged. If that happens, you’ll be notified. You can resubmit at no extra cost. Go back to the same post office or another certified site. Make sure your hands are clean and dry. Avoid lotions for 24 hours before. If you have scars or worn fingerprints, tell the technician. They may adjust the scanning pressure. Most rejections are due to poor image quality—not identity issues.
Is USPS Fingerprinting Legally Valid?
Yes. It meets all FBI standards for civil fingerprint submissions. The IDEMIA scanners are FBI-certified. The data transmission is encrypted. Courts, licensing boards, and employers accept USPS-submitted prints. The process follows the Interstate Agreement on the Transfer of Fingerprint Records. That means prints taken in one state can be used in another. Whether you’re applying in California or Maine, USPS fingerprints are valid nationwide.
How to Find the Nearest Location
Use the USPS Location Finder at tools.usps.com/find-location.htm. Type your ZIP code or address. Click on a nearby post office. Look for “Fingerprinting” under services. The page will say if it offers Live Scan, ink, or both. It also shows hours, phone number, and a link to schedule. You can bundle fingerprinting with passport services at some locations. Save time by doing both in one trip.
Alternatives to USPS Fingerprinting
If no post office near you offers the service, try PrintScan, local law enforcement, or private vendors. PostalAnnex+ locations provide ink fingerprinting and can mail cards across state lines. FingerprintZone.com lists certified providers by state. Many offer mobile units for businesses. Some charge less than USPS. Others have longer hours. Compare options based on cost, convenience, and speed.
Final Tips for a Smooth Experience
Book early. Bring all required documents. Pay with cash or card. Wear short sleeves. Stay calm—the process is quick. Ask questions if unsure. Keep your receipt. Follow up if results take longer than expected. USPS fingerprinting is reliable, secure, and widely accepted. It’s a smart choice for anyone needing an FBI background check.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have similar questions about USPS fingerprinting. Below are clear, detailed answers based on current policies and real user experiences. These cover eligibility, timing, costs, and troubleshooting.
Can I get fingerprinted at any post office?
No. Only about 180 post offices across 45 states offer fingerprinting. These are specially equipped with IDEMIA Live Scan machines. Most regular post offices do not provide this service. Always use the USPS location finder or call ahead to confirm. The program is limited but growing. Expansion depends on demand and federal funding. If your local branch doesn’t offer it, nearby PrintScan or police stations may help.
How long does it take to get FBI results after USPS fingerprinting?
Most people receive their Identity History Summary in 2–3 business days. This is much faster than ink card submissions, which take 7–10 days. The speed comes from instant digital uploads to the FBI’s CJIS system. Processing begins immediately after scanning. Delays happen only if prints are unclear or if the FBI finds a match requiring review. Standard employment or licensing checks are usually completed within 72 hours.
What if I have damaged or worn fingerprints?
You can still use USPS fingerprinting. Technicians are trained to handle difficult cases. They may adjust scanner pressure or clean your fingers gently. If prints are rejected, you can resubmit for free. Some people with manual jobs or medical conditions have faint ridges. Digital scanners often capture these better than ink. Inform the staff beforehand so they can take extra care.
Can minors get fingerprinted at a post office?
Yes, but a parent or legal guardian must accompany them. The guardian must sign the consent affidavit. Minors need the same documents: a completed FBI request form and a photo ID. School IDs may not be accepted—bring a birth certificate or passport if no state ID exists. Fingerprinting is common for youth sports coaches, camp staff, and volunteer roles requiring background checks.
Is the $50 fee refundable if my prints are rejected?
No. The fee covers the scanning process, not the outcome. Even if the FBI rejects your prints, the service was performed correctly. You can resubmit at no extra charge. The cost includes the cartridge, transmission, and receipt. It’s not tied to approval. Always ask for a copy of your receipt to track resubmissions.
Can I use USPS fingerprinting for international jobs or visas?
It depends. Some countries accept FBI Identity History Summaries for visa or work permits. Others require additional steps, like apostille certification. USPS fingerprinting meets FBI standards, which many embassies recognize. But always check with the foreign agency first. They may need mailed ink cards instead of digital submissions.
What happens if I miss my appointment?
You may lose your slot. USPS does not guarantee walk-in service. Reschedule as soon as possible. Late arrivals might be turned away. Repeated no-shows could affect future bookings. The system relies on accurate scheduling to manage demand. If you can’t make it, cancel online or call the branch at least 24 hours ahead.
For official information, visit the U.S. Postal Service website or call your local post office. PrintScan support: (631) 782-1700. USPS Retail Services: tools.usps.com/rcas.htm. Hours vary by location—check online before visiting.