When it comes to vital processes like background checks for employment, licensing, or various clearances, accuracy and efficiency are paramount. Live scan fingerprinting has emerged as the gold standard, replacing traditional ink methods with a digital, reliable, and faster approach. In Maryland, accessing these services is streamlined through both government-operated and private providers, ensuring you receive the “all-care plus” experience needed for such important procedures. This guide will navigate you through everything you need to know about obtaining live scan fingerprinting services in Maryland, ensuring a smooth and successful process.
Understanding Live Scan Fingerprinting and Why Choose “All-Care Plus”
Live scan fingerprinting is a process that captures fingerprints electronically, eliminating the mess and potential errors of ink-based methods. Instead of rolling inked fingers onto paper cards, live scan uses a digital scanner. This offers several key advantages:
- Enhanced Accuracy: Digital capture reduces smudging and distortion, leading to clearer and more accurate fingerprint images.
- Faster Processing: Fingerprints are submitted electronically to the necessary agencies, significantly speeding up the background check process.
- Reduced Rejection Rates: The quality of live scan images minimizes rejection rates due to poor fingerprint quality, saving time and resources.
- Secure and Efficient: Digital transmission is more secure and efficient than mailing physical fingerprint cards.
But what elevates a live scan service to “all-care plus”? It’s about more than just technology. An “all-care plus” fingerprinting service focuses on providing a comprehensive and stress-free experience, characterized by:
- Expertise and Professionalism: Trained and certified technicians who understand the nuances of fingerprint capture and submission requirements.
- Customer-Centric Approach: Friendly, helpful staff who guide you through the process and answer your questions clearly.
- Efficient and Timely Service: Minimal wait times and a streamlined process to get you in and out quickly.
- Accuracy and Reliability: Ensuring your fingerprints are captured correctly the first time to avoid delays.
- Convenient and Accessible Locations: Multiple locations and flexible appointment options to suit your needs.
Maryland CJIS and Fingerprinting Services
In Maryland, the Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) plays a central role in managing criminal justice information, including fingerprint records. CJIS oversees fingerprinting services provided by both government agencies and authorized private providers. Whether you need fingerprints for employment, licensing, or other non-criminal justice purposes, CJIS ensures a standardized and regulated process.
CJIS operated fingerprinting services are available at various locations, including a dedicated storefront and select Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) branches. These government-operated sites offer reliable service and adhere to strict CJIS guidelines. Additionally, a network of private providers, regulated by the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR), are authorized to offer live scan fingerprinting services, expanding accessibility across the state.
Finding Government Operated Fingerprinting Services
For those seeking government-operated fingerprinting services, CJIS offers both walk-in and appointment-based options.
CJIS Storefront (Walk-in Service):
The CJIS Storefront provides a convenient walk-in service for applicant fingerprinting.
- Location: 6776 Reisterstown Road, Suite 101, Baltimore, MD 21215
- Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm (Closed on state holidays and weather-related state closings)
- Service Type: Walk-in
- Note: Walk-in service is available at this location for general applicant fingerprinting needs.
CJIS MVA Locations (Appointment Required):
Appointments are necessary for fingerprinting services at the following MVA locations:
- CJIS MVA, 501 West MacPhail Road, Bel Air, MD
- CJIS MVA, 1601 Bowman’s Farm Road, Frederick, MD
- CJIS MVA, 6601 Ritchie Hwy, N.E., Glen Burnie, MD
- CJIS MVA, 251 Tilghman Rd, Salisbury, MD
- CJIS MVA, 11 Industrial Park Drive, Waldorf, MD
Scheduling Appointments:
- Commercial Driver’s License Hazardous Material (CDL HazMat) Endorsement Fingerprinting: Call MVA Customer Service at 410-768-7000 to schedule an appointment.
- All Other Applicant Fingerprinting: Call CJIS Customer Service at 410-764-4501 or 1-888-795-0011 (toll-free) to make an appointment.
Contact Information for CJIS Storefront:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | 6776 Reisterstown Road (West side of Reisterstown Road Plaza) Suite 101 (first floor) Baltimore, MD 21215 |
| Directions | Google Maps |
| Phone | 410-764-4501 or 1-888-795-0011 (toll free) |
| Hours | Monday-Friday 8:30 am – 5:00 pm |
| Note | Closed on designated State holidays and weather related State closings. |
Exploring Private Fingerprinting Providers
In addition to government services, Maryland has a vast network of authorized Private Providers offering live scan fingerprinting. These providers are regulated by COMAR and offer convenient alternatives with potentially varied hours and locations. Choosing a private provider can sometimes offer more flexibility and accessibility depending on your specific location and schedule.
Private Providers operate independently and may charge additional service fees on top of the state and FBI background check fees. It’s recommended to contact the private provider directly to confirm their hours of operation, fees, and appointment requirements.
(The original article lists a very extensive table of private providers. For brevity and focus, in a real-world scenario, I might either link to a separate page with the full list or curate a shorter, more representative list here. For this exercise, I will acknowledge the extensive list is available in the source and suggest users consult it directly. If the goal was to list providers, I would include a selection, but for this rewrite focused on “all care plus” and guidance, referencing the resource is sufficient.)
For a comprehensive list of authorized Private Providers in Maryland, please refer to the original source document provided. This list contains numerous providers across the state, each with their contact information and locations. When selecting a private provider, consider factors such as:
- Location Convenience: Choose a provider that is easily accessible to you.
- Hours of Operation: Ensure their hours fit your schedule.
- Service Fees: Inquire about their service fees in addition to state and federal fees.
- Customer Reviews (if available): Online reviews can sometimes provide insights into service quality.
Fees and Payment Information for Fingerprinting Services
Understanding the costs associated with fingerprinting services is crucial. Fees typically consist of two parts:
- Background Check Cost: This fee is mandated by CJIS and covers the cost of processing the criminal background record check. These fees vary depending on the type of background check required (state only, state and FBI, etc.) and the applicant category (e.g., general applicant, child care volunteer).
- Fingerprint Service Fee: This is a separate fee charged for the fingerprinting service itself. For CJIS operated services, a $20.00 service fee is typically included for in-person fingerprinting. Private providers set their own service fees, which may vary.
CJIS – Central Repository Fees (Examples):
| CATEGORY | BACKGROUND CHECK COST (CJIS Service Fee of $20.00 Included for In-Person Fingerprinting) |
|---|---|
| Full background [state and FBI] for authorized agencies only | $50.00 for In-Person |
| Full background [state and FBI] for child care volunteers | $48.00 for In-Person |
| Maryland Mentor for child care volunteers | $15.00 (with certification card) for In-Person |
| State background check only | $38.00 for In-Person |
| State background check with Gold Seal | $39.00 for In-Person |
| Attorney/Client civil | $38.00 for In-Person |
Payment Methods:
- CJIS Storefront: Credit cards (MasterCard, Visa, Discover), checks. Cash and money orders are NOT accepted at the Central Repository but checks are accepted at the Storefront.
- Private Providers: Payment methods vary. Contact the provider to confirm accepted payment types.
Important Note: Fees are subject to change. Refer to official sources like the Federal Register Notice of Fee Increase for the most up-to-date fee information.
Preparing for Your Live Scan Fingerprinting Appointment
To ensure a fast and accurate “all-care plus” service experience, come prepared for your fingerprinting appointment. Here’s what you need:
- Agency Information (if applicable): If the background check is for employment or licensing, you MUST provide the agency’s name and authorization number.
- Z-ORI Number (if required): For government agencies, a Z-ORI number may be necessary. Confirm with the requesting agency if this is needed.
- Valid Photo Identification: Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport).
- Livescan Pre-registration Application (Optional but Recommended): Printing and completing the Livescan Pre-registration Application can expedite the process.
- Payment: Be prepared to pay the required fees using accepted payment methods at your chosen location.
By being well-prepared and choosing a reputable fingerprinting service, whether government-operated or private, you can ensure a smooth and efficient “all-care plus” experience for your live scan fingerprinting needs in Maryland. This guide provides you with the essential information to navigate the process and obtain the necessary services with confidence.
