Navigating the requirements for Community Care Licensing (CCL) can seem complex, especially when it comes to background checks. A crucial step in this process is obtaining Live Scan clearance. This article serves as your guide to understanding what Live Scan is, why it’s essential for CCL, and how to navigate the process smoothly.
Live Scan is a technology used for electronic fingerprinting. Gone are the days of messy ink pads; Live Scan digitally captures your fingerprints and transmits them securely to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and, if necessary, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This electronic process significantly speeds up criminal record checks, a mandatory requirement for individuals involved in Community Care Licensing in California. The results from these checks are then sent directly to the Care Provider Management Branch (CPMB) of the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD).
Why is Live Scan necessary for Community Care Licensing? The DOJ exclusively accepts electronic fingerprint submissions for criminal record checks related to CCL. Submitting fingerprints on traditional hard copy cards (FD258) will lead to rejection and require resubmission via Live Scan. While exemptions for electronic submission are possible in very specific hardship situations, the process is lengthy and generally discouraged. The standard and most efficient path to obtaining your Community Care Licensing Live Scan Clearance is through electronic submission.
To initiate your Live Scan for Community Care Licensing, you will typically need a Request for Live Scan form, known as LIC 9163. This form is often provided by your potential employer, licensee, or provider, and it’s critical to use the specific form given to you. These forms contain unique agency-specific information necessary for proper processing. You can also obtain the LIC 9163 form from any local Community Care Licensing Division office. This form automatically includes a Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) check when required. It’s important to note that for Home Care Organizations and Home Care Aides, while a CACI check isn’t always mandatory, a Live Scan Submission form is still necessary and can be obtained from the Home Care Services Branch.
When you go to a Live Scan service provider, they will outline the fees involved. These charges cover the transmission of your fingerprints and the processing fees from the DOJ, FBI, and CACI (if applicable). After your fingerprints and personal information are recorded, the data is securely transmitted to the DOJ for processing. Upon completion, the DOJ sends the fingerprint check results directly to the CPMB.
Understanding the timeframe for receiving your Community Care Licensing Live Scan clearance results is also important. If you have no criminal history, you can generally expect the following timelines from the date of fingerprint submission to the DOJ:
- Live Scan Fingerprints (DOJ): Approximately 3 days
- Fingerprints (FBI): Approximately 5 days
- Child Abuse Central Index check: 4-6 weeks
However, these timeframes can significantly extend if there is a criminal history associated with your fingerprints or if the initial Live Scan transmission is rejected by the Department of Justice.
For further assistance and resources, you can access the Request for Live Scan form LIC 9163 and information on Live Scan Fees online. Additionally, the Attorney General’s website provides a tool to locate additional Live Scan provider locations near you. Ensuring you have your Community Care Licensing Live Scan clearance is a vital step in the licensing process, and understanding this process is key to a smooth and efficient experience.
