Navigating the requirements to become a certified home care aide can seem complex, and understanding the Live Scan form is a crucial step in this process. For individuals seeking to provide essential home care services, particularly in California, the Live Scan background check is a mandatory requirement. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to understanding the “Home Care Aide Live Scan Form,” ensuring you are well-informed and prepared to complete this vital step efficiently.
What is a Live Scan and Why is it Essential for Home Care Aides?
Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting process that transmits your fingerprints and personal information electronically to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for a comprehensive criminal background check. This technology replaces the traditional ink-based fingerprinting method, offering a faster and more secure way to process background checks. For aspiring home care aides, undergoing a Live Scan is not just a procedural step; it’s a fundamental requirement to ensure the safety and well-being of clients.
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) mandates Live Scan background checks for all individuals associated with community care licensing, including home care organizations and their aides. This rigorous process helps to maintain high standards of care and protect vulnerable individuals who rely on home care services. The results from the DOJ are then securely transmitted to the Care Provider Management Branch (CPMB) of the Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD).
Obtaining Your Home Care Aide Live Scan Form
To initiate the Live Scan process, you will need a specific Request for Live Scan form, known as LIC 9163. It’s important to note that you should always use the form provided by your potential employer, the licensee, or the provider. These forms are pre-populated with essential information unique to each agency, which is necessary for proper processing.
For home care organizations and home care aides, if you need to obtain a hard copy of the Live Scan Submission form, you can contact the Home Care Services Branch (HCSB) directly. They can be reached at (916) 657-3570 or via email at [email protected]. While a Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) check is typically included in broader care licensing Live Scans, it is generally not required for individuals solely associated with Home Care Organizations or the Home Care Aide Registry.
Step-by-Step Through the Live Scan Process
Once you have your completed Live Scan form, the next step is to visit a certified Live Scan service provider. Here’s what you can expect during the process:
- Form Submission and Information Verification: Present your Request for Live Scan form (LIC 9163) to the Live Scan operator. They will verify your identity and the information on the form.
- Fingerprint Capture: Using a digital scanner, the operator will capture your fingerprints electronically. This inkless process is quick and efficient.
- Fee Payment: You will be informed of the total charges, which typically include fees for transmitting your fingerprints, DOJ processing, FBI processing, and, if applicable, the CACI check.
- Data Transmission: After capturing your fingerprints and applicant information, the Live Scan operator will electronically transmit the data securely to the DOJ for processing.
Understanding the Costs and Timelines
It’s important to be aware of the costs associated with the Live Scan process. These fees cover the electronic transmission of your fingerprints and the background check services provided by the DOJ and potentially the FBI. You should confirm the exact charges with the Live Scan provider at the time of service.
After your Live Scan is submitted, the DOJ processes the information and sends the results to the CPMB. Here are the estimated timelines for receiving results, assuming no criminal history is found and there are no issues with the fingerprint submission:
- DOJ Fingerprint Check: Approximately 3 business days.
- FBI Fingerprint Check: Approximately 5 business days.
- Child Abuse Central Index Check: 4-6 weeks (though typically not required for home care aides specifically).
Keep in mind that these are estimated timeframes. If an applicant has a criminal history, or if there are issues with the fingerprint transmittal, the process can take significantly longer.
Conclusion: Your Path to Becoming a Home Care Aide
The Live Scan process, while a mandatory step, is designed to ensure the highest standards of safety and care within the home care industry. By understanding the importance of the “home care aide live scan form,” knowing how to obtain it, and being prepared for the process, you can navigate this requirement with confidence. Using the correct LIC 9163 form provided by your employer or obtained through official channels is crucial for a smooth and efficient background check, paving the way for you to begin your rewarding career as a home care aide.
Resources:
- Request for Live Scan form LIC 9163
- Attorney General’s Website for Live Scan Locations: https://oag.ca.gov/fingerprints/locations
- CDSS Live Scan Provider List (for reference): provider list
- Information on Live Scan Fees: Fees
