Navigating the requirements for becoming a foster parent often involves understanding specific procedures, and one crucial step is the Live Scan fingerprinting process. This process is essential for background checks, ensuring the safety and well-being of children in foster care. This guide will explain the Foster Care Live Scan Form, its purpose, and how to navigate the process smoothly.
What is a Live Scan and Why is it Required for Foster Care?
Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting method that transmits fingerprints electronically to the Department of Justice (DOJ). This technology replaces traditional ink-based fingerprinting, offering a faster and more efficient way to process background checks. For individuals seeking to become foster parents, Live Scan is a mandatory step. It allows the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) and other relevant authorities to conduct thorough criminal background checks and Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) checks, ensuring a safe environment for children in foster care.
The DOJ exclusively accepts electronically transmitted fingerprint images for criminal record checks, emphasizing the importance of Live Scan. Submissions using hard copy fingerprint cards are generally returned, highlighting the necessity of electronic submission unless specific exemptions are pre-approved for hardship situations.
Obtaining and Completing the Foster Care Live Scan Form (LIC 9163)
The Request for Live Scan form, specifically LIC 9163, is crucial for initiating the fingerprinting process. This form is readily available from local Community Care Licensing Division offices. It automatically includes a request for a Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) check when necessary, streamlining the process for foster care applicants.
Key Instruction: It is vital to use the specific Live Scan form provided by the foster care agency, licensee, or provider you are working with. These forms contain agency-specific information that is essential for proper processing. Using a generic form or one from a different agency can lead to delays or rejection of your application. Ensure all sections of the form are completed accurately before proceeding to a Live Scan service provider.
The Live Scan Process: Step-by-Step
Once you have the correct LIC 9163 form, the next steps involve visiting a certified Live Scan service provider. Here’s what to expect:
- Locate a Provider: The Attorney General’s website provides a tool to find Live Scan locations. While the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) may provide lists of recently active providers, it’s always advisable to verify operating hours and fees directly with the provider beforehand.
- Understand the Fees: Inquire about the charges at the Live Scan site. These fees typically cover the transmission of fingerprints, DOJ processing, FBI checks, and CACI checks, if applicable.
- Fingerprinting and Data Transmission: At the Live Scan location, a trained operator will take your fingerprints electronically. Your personal information and fingerprint data are then securely and electronically transmitted to the DOJ for processing.
- Results and Processing Time: After submission, the DOJ processes the information and sends the background check results electronically to the Care Provider Management Branch (CPMB) of the CCLD.
Estimated Result Timeframes (for cases with no criminal history):
- DOJ Fingerprint Check: Approximately 3 business days.
- FBI Fingerprint Check: Approximately 5 business days.
- Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) Check: 4-6 weeks.
It is important to note that these timeframes are estimates for cases with no criminal history. Any criminal history or issues with fingerprint transmittal can significantly lengthen the processing time.
Navigating Potential Delays
Delays in receiving Live Scan results can occur, particularly if there is a criminal history associated with the applicant or if the fingerprint submission is rejected by the DOJ due to technical issues. To minimize delays:
- Ensure all information on the Live Scan form is accurate and complete.
- Use a reputable and certified Live Scan provider.
- Be prepared for potentially longer processing times if complexities arise during the background check.
Understanding the foster care Live Scan form and process is a vital step in becoming a foster parent. By following these guidelines and ensuring accurate completion of all requirements, you can contribute to a smoother and more efficient process, ultimately benefiting the children who need safe and caring homes.
