Navigating the process of obtaining your Community Care Licensing in California involves several crucial steps, and one of the most important is completing a Live Scan for background checks. Understanding where to find authorized Live Scan locations is essential for a smooth application process. This guide will provide you with the resources and information you need to locate convenient and reliable Community Care Licensing Live Scan Locations.
Understanding Live Scan for Community Care Licensing
Live Scan is the modern, electronic method of fingerprinting required by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD). This digital process replaces traditional ink fingerprinting, offering a faster and more secure way to transmit your fingerprints and personal information to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for criminal record checks. For anyone seeking to work or volunteer in community care facilities, including those involved in child care, adult care, or senior care, completing a Live Scan is a mandatory step in the licensing and background check process.
Reliable Resources to Find Community Care Licensing Live Scan Locations
Finding the correct Live Scan location is crucial to ensure your fingerprints are processed correctly for your Community Care Licensing application. Here are the most reliable resources to help you pinpoint locations near you:
1. CDSS Recently Active Provider List
The CDSS provides a regularly updated list of recently active Live Scan providers. This list is a valuable resource, especially considering potential changes in operating hours and availability. While CDSS aims to keep this list current, it’s always recommended to contact the providers beforehand to confirm their hours of operation, fees, and appointment requirements. You can access this list directly from the CDSS website, ensuring you have the most recent information available.
Link to CDSS Live Scan Provider List
Note: This list is not exhaustive, and additional locations may be available.
2. California Attorney General’s Website
For a broader search, the California Attorney General’s website offers a comprehensive tool to find Live Scan locations across the state. This resource is not specific to Community Care Licensing, but it allows you to search for vendors by location, making it a useful tool to discover additional options in your vicinity. Utilizing the Attorney General’s website in conjunction with the CDSS list can significantly increase your chances of finding a convenient Live Scan location.
Link to Attorney General’s Website
3. Contacting Your Sponsoring Agency or Employer
Often, the most direct route to finding a suitable Live Scan location is through the agency, licensee, or potential employer sponsoring your Community Care Licensing application. These entities are usually well-versed in the specific Live Scan requirements and may have preferred or recommended locations. They will also provide you with the necessary Request for Live Scan form (LIC 9163), which is essential for the process.
What to Expect When You Visit a Live Scan Location
Once you’ve identified a Community Care Licensing Live Scan location, knowing what to expect can streamline your visit:
Required Form: LIC 9163
Ensure you bring the correct Request for Live Scan form, LIC 9163. It is critical to use the form provided to you by your potential employer or licensing agency. These forms contain specific agency codes and information necessary for proper processing of your background check. Generic forms or forms from other agencies will not be accepted.
Link to Request for Live Scan form LIC 9163
Alt Text: Downloadable PDF icon for Request for Live Scan form LIC 9163, used for Community Care Licensing background checks.
Associated Fees
Be prepared to pay fees at the Live Scan location. These fees typically cover the cost of transmitting your fingerprints, DOJ processing, FBI checks, and, if applicable, Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) checks. It’s advisable to inquire about the exact charges when you contact the Live Scan provider to avoid any surprises.
Alt Text: PDF icon linking to document outlining Live Scan fees associated with Community Care Licensing background checks.
Electronic Submission Process
The Live Scan process itself is quick and efficient. A trained operator will electronically capture your fingerprints and submit your data to the DOJ. Results are then typically sent electronically to the Care Provider Management Branch (CPMB) of the CCLD.
Processing Times for Live Scan Results
Understanding the estimated processing times can help you plan accordingly:
- DOJ Fingerprint Check (Live Scan): Approximately 3 business days if there is no criminal history.
- FBI Fingerprint Check: Approximately 5 business days if there is no criminal history.
- Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) Check: 4-6 weeks.
Please note that these are estimated timeframes for cases without criminal history. Processing times can be significantly longer if records are found or if there are issues with fingerprint transmittal.
Conclusion: Your Path to Finding Live Scan Locations for Community Care Licensing
Finding the right Community Care Licensing Live Scan locations is a critical step in your application process. By utilizing the resources provided by the CDSS and the Attorney General, and by communicating with your sponsoring agency, you can confidently locate a convenient and reliable service provider. Remember to always use the correct LIC 9163 form and to verify operating hours and fees beforehand. Completing your Live Scan efficiently brings you one step closer to achieving your Community Care Licensing goals.
