Ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals under care is paramount. In California, a crucial step in this process for caregivers is the Live Scan fingerprint background check. This guide, brought to you by carcodepro.com, your trusted resource for automotive and professional insights, explains the Live Scan application process and associated fees for caregivers.
What is Live Scan and Why is it Required for Caregivers?
Live Scan is a technology used for inkless, electronic fingerprinting. Instead of traditional ink-and-roll methods, Live Scan digitally captures your fingerprints and securely transmits them, along with your personal information, to the Department of Justice (DOJ) within seconds. For caregivers in California, this electronic fingerprinting is mandatory for background checks.
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS), through the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD), requires these background checks to ensure the safety of individuals receiving care. The DOJ exclusively accepts electronically submitted fingerprints for criminal record checks related to caregiving. Submissions on hard copy fingerprint cards (FD258) are generally not accepted and will be returned for electronic submission. While exemptions for electronic submission might be possible in very specific hardship situations, they are rare and involve a lengthy process.
Step-by-Step Live Scan Application Process for Caregivers
To initiate the Live Scan process, you’ll need a Request for Live Scan form, known as LIC 9163. This form can be obtained online or from any local Community Care Licensing Division office. For those associated with Home Care Organizations or the Home Care Aide Registry, contact the Home Care Services Branch to get the specific form required. Importantly, the LIC 9163 form automatically includes a Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) check, if necessary.
It’s crucial to use the specific Live Scan form provided to you by your potential employer, licensee, or care provider. These forms contain unique information essential for your background check process. Using the correct form ensures that your fingerprints are correctly associated with the requesting agency.
Once you have the correct form, locate a certified Live Scan provider. While CDSS provides a list of recently active providers, it’s always recommended to contact the provider beforehand to confirm their operating hours, fees, and appointment availability. You can also find additional Live Scan locations on the Attorney General’s website.
At the Live Scan site, the operator will:
- Inform you about all applicable charges, including fees for fingerprint transmission and processing by the DOJ, FBI, and CACI (if required).
- Record your fingerprints and necessary personal information electronically.
- Transmit this data securely to the DOJ for processing.
Understanding the Costs: Live Scan Fees for Caregivers
The fees associated with a caregiver Live Scan encompass several components. These typically include:
- DOJ Processing Fees: Covers the cost of the criminal background check by the Department of Justice.
- FBI Processing Fees: If required, this covers the federal level background check by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
- CACI Check Fees: If applicable, this fee covers the Child Abuse Central Index check.
- Live Scan Provider Fees: These are fees charged by the Live Scan service provider for capturing and transmitting your fingerprints.
It’s advisable to inquire about the exact fee breakdown from the Live Scan provider beforehand to understand all costs involved. Keep in mind that fees can vary between providers.
Timeline for Live Scan Results
The time it takes to receive Live Scan results can vary. If there is no criminal history, you can generally expect:
- DOJ Fingerprint Check: Approximately 3 business days from the fingerprint submission date.
- FBI Fingerprint Check: Approximately 5 business days.
- Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) Check: 4-6 weeks.
However, these are estimated timelines. If an applicant has a criminal history, or if there are issues with fingerprint transmittal, the process can take significantly longer. Ensure all information provided is accurate and fingerprints are clear to avoid delays.
Conclusion
The Live Scan process is a critical requirement for caregivers in California, designed to enhance safety and trust in care environments. By understanding the steps, required forms, associated fees, and expected timelines, caregivers can navigate this process efficiently. Ensure you use the correct form provided by your employer, locate a certified Live Scan provider, and clarify all fee details upfront. This preparation will help streamline your caregiver Live Scan application and background check, allowing you to focus on providing quality care. For further details and resources, refer to the official CDSS and Attorney General websites.
