Securing a position in home care often involves a background check, and in California, the Live Scan fingerprinting service is the standard method for this crucial step. This guide, brought to you by carcodepro.com, your trusted source for automotive and professional insights, will walk you through everything you need to know about the Home Care Live Scan Request process. We’ll break down the steps, associated fees, and how to ensure your application proceeds without delays.
What is Live Scan and Why is it Important for Home Care?
Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting technology that has replaced the traditional ink-and-roll method. It’s a quick and efficient way to capture your fingerprints and electronically transmit them, along with your personal information, directly to the Department of Justice (DOJ). For home care organizations and caregivers, Live Scan is essential for conducting mandatory background checks. This process helps ensure the safety and well-being of individuals receiving care by verifying that applicants do not have a criminal history that would disqualify them from working in caregiving roles. The results are securely and rapidly sent to the Care Provider Management Branch (CPMB) of the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD).
The DOJ exclusively accepts electronically submitted fingerprints for criminal record checks, making Live Scan the necessary procedure. While exemptions from electronic submission are possible in very specific hardship situations, these are rare and involve a lengthy process. Generally, using the electronic Live Scan system is the only practical and accepted method for home care background checks.
Obtaining Your Home Care Live Scan Request Form
The first key step in the process is obtaining the correct Request for Live Scan form, LIC 9163. It’s crucial to understand that you must use the specific Live Scan form provided to you by your potential employer, the home care organization, or the licensing provider. These forms are not generic; they contain unique information specific to the requesting agency, which is vital for proper processing.
For individuals associated with Home Care Organizations or the Home Care Aide Registry, you can also obtain a hard copy Live Scan Submission form by contacting the Home Care Services Branch directly at (916) 657-3570 or via email at [email protected]. It’s important to note that a Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) check is automatically included on form LIC 9163 if needed, though a CACI check is not always required for those solely affiliated with Home Care Organizations or the Home Care Aide Registry.
Always ensure you are using the form provided to you by the requesting agency. Using the wrong form will cause delays and could require you to repeat the Live Scan process.
What Happens at the Live Scan Service Location?
Once you have the correct Live Scan request form, your next step is to visit a certified Live Scan service provider. You can find a list of providers on the Attorney General’s website. It’s advisable to contact the provider beforehand to confirm their operating hours, fees, and whether they require appointments.
At the Live Scan location, the operator will:
- Review your Request for Live Scan form.
- Capture your fingerprints electronically. This is a quick, inkless process.
- Collect the necessary fees. These fees typically cover the cost of transmitting your fingerprints and the processing fees charged by the DOJ, FBI, and CACI (if applicable). The operator will inform you of the exact charges before proceeding. You can find a general fee schedule here, but always confirm with the provider.
- Electronically transmit your fingerprints and data to the DOJ.
After your fingerprints are taken and transmitted, your part in the process is largely complete.
Understanding Live Scan Processing Times and Potential Delays
The DOJ will then process your information and send the background check results electronically to the CPMB. The estimated processing times are:
- Live Scan Fingerprints (DOJ): Approximately 3 days if there is no criminal history.
- Fingerprints (FBI): Approximately 5 days if there is no criminal history.
- Child Abuse Central Index check (CACI): 4-6 weeks.
It’s important to note that these are estimated times for cases with no criminal history. If an applicant has a criminal record, or if there are issues with fingerprint transmittal, processing times will be significantly longer. Rejected fingerprint submissions can also cause delays, requiring resubmission and reprocessing.
Resources for Your Home Care Live Scan Request
To assist you further, here are some helpful resources:
- Request for Live Scan form LIC 9163: Link to Form
- List of Active Live Scan Providers: Link to Provider List (Note: This list may be periodically updated, verify directly with providers).
- Attorney General’s Website for Additional Vendor Locations: Link to AG Website
- Live Scan Fees Information: Link to Fee Schedule
Conclusion
Navigating the home care live scan request process is a critical step in your journey to becoming a home care professional. By understanding the requirements, obtaining the correct form, and being prepared for the process at the Live Scan location, you can help ensure a smooth and efficient background check. Remember to always use the form provided by your potential employer and to contact Live Scan providers in advance to confirm their services and fees. This guide from carcodepro.com aims to provide you with the clarity and information you need to confidently complete this important requirement.
