Understanding the Child Care Live Scan Form is crucial for anyone involved in child care services in California. This guide provides a detailed overview of the live scan process, its importance, and how to navigate it effectively. Whether you are an applicant seeking employment or a provider managing background checks, this information will ensure you are well-informed and compliant.
What is a Live Scan and Why is it Required for Child Care?
Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting process that electronically transmits your fingerprints and personal information to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI for criminal background checks. This technology has replaced the traditional ink-and-roll method, offering a faster and more efficient way to process fingerprint submissions.
In the child care industry, live scan fingerprinting is a mandatory requirement. It ensures the safety and well-being of children by thoroughly vetting individuals who will be working with or around them. The background check process is essential for:
- Licensing: Child care facilities and providers must undergo live scan background checks to obtain and maintain their licenses.
- Employment: Individuals seeking employment in child care roles are required to complete a live scan as part of the hiring process.
- Protecting Children: The primary goal is to create a safe environment for children by identifying and preventing individuals with a history of criminal offenses or child abuse from working in child care settings.
Obtaining the Child Care Live Scan Form (LIC 9163)
To initiate the live scan process for child care, you will need the Request for Live Scan form LIC 9163. It is imperative to use the correct form, as it contains specific information necessary for processing your background check within the child care sector. You can obtain this form from several sources:
- Potential Employer or Provider: Typically, your prospective employer, licensing agency, or child care provider will furnish you with the correct LIC 9163 form. It is crucial to use the form provided to you by them. These forms contain unique agency-specific details essential for proper processing.
- Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) Office: You can visit any local CCLD office to request a hard copy of the LIC 9163 form.
- Online Download: The LIC 9163 form is also available for download from the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) website.
Instructions for downloading LIC 9163 form
For individuals associated with Home Care Organizations or the Home Care Aide Registry, specific instructions may apply, and contacting the Home Care Services Branch is recommended.
Completing and Using the Live Scan Form
Once you have the child care live scan form LIC 9163, review it carefully. Ensure all sections are filled out accurately and completely. Pay close attention to the ORI (Originating Agency Identifier) code and other agency-specific information pre-filled on the form, as this directs your background check to the correct recipient.
Key points to remember:
- Use the Original Form: Always use the original LIC 9163 form provided to you. Copies may not be accepted.
- Accuracy is Essential: Double-check all personal information for accuracy to avoid processing delays.
- Do Not Leave Sections Blank: Complete all applicable sections of the form. If you are unsure about any part, seek clarification from the agency that provided the form.
Live Scan Process: Step-by-Step
After obtaining and completing the child care live scan form, you will need to visit a certified Live Scan service provider to have your fingerprints taken. Here’s what to expect during the process:
- Locate a Live Scan Provider: Find a convenient Live Scan service provider. The California Attorney General’s website provides a tool to locate Live Scan locations near you. It is advisable to contact the provider beforehand to confirm their operating hours, fees, and appointment requirements.
- Bring Required Documents: Take the completed child care live scan form (LIC 9163) and a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport) to your Live Scan appointment.
- Fingerprinting: A trained Live Scan operator will take your fingerprints electronically. This process is inkless, quick, and painless.
- Review and Verify Information: Before transmitting your fingerprints, the operator will review the information on the form with you to ensure accuracy.
- Payment of Fees: You will be responsible for paying the Live Scan fees at the time of service. These fees typically cover:
- Live Scan Service Provider Fee: This is the fee charged by the Live Scan location for their services.
- DOJ Processing Fee: Covers the cost of the Department of Justice background check.
- FBI Processing Fee (if applicable): For FBI criminal history checks.
- Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) Check Fee (if applicable): For child care related checks.
Link to Live Scan Fees Information
- Electronic Transmission: Once your fingerprints and data are captured and fees are paid, the Live Scan operator will electronically transmit your information securely to the DOJ.
Processing Times and Receiving Results
The DOJ processes live scan submissions and sends the results to the Care Provider Management Branch (CPMB) of the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD). Typical processing times are:
- DOJ Fingerprint Check: Approximately 3 days if there is no criminal history.
- FBI Fingerprint Check: Approximately 5 days if there is no criminal history.
- Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) Check: 4-6 weeks.
Important Considerations Regarding Processing Times:
- Criminal History: If you have a criminal history, processing times will be significantly longer as it requires manual review and verification.
- Rejected Submissions: Errors in fingerprinting or data submission can lead to rejection by the DOJ, further delaying the process. Ensure accuracy and clarity during fingerprinting to avoid rejections.
The results are sent electronically to the CPMB, and the requesting agency or employer will be notified of the outcome of your background check.
Additional Resources
For further information and assistance, refer to these resources:
- Request for Live Scan form LIC 9163: LIC 9163 Form
- Attorney General’s Website for Live Scan Locations: DOJ Live Scan Locations
- Live Scan Fees Information: Live Scan Fees
Understanding the child care live scan form and the entire live scan process is essential for a smooth and compliant background check experience. By following this guide, you can navigate the requirements effectively and contribute to creating safe environments for children in care.
