Navigating the requirements to become a certified Home Care Aide in California involves several important steps, and one of the most crucial is undergoing a Live Scan for fingerprinting and background checks. This process is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals receiving home care services. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Live Scan as a California Home Care Aide.
Understanding Live Scan for Home Care Aides in California
Live Scan is a digital fingerprinting method that has replaced traditional ink-based fingerprinting. It’s a quick, efficient, and secure way to transmit your fingerprints and personal information electronically to the California Department of Justice (DOJ). For aspiring Home Care Aides, this technology streamlines the mandatory background check process required by the California Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD). The DOJ exclusively accepts these electronic submissions for criminal record checks, ensuring a faster and more reliable verification process. Using outdated fingerprint cards is no longer accepted, emphasizing the importance of understanding and utilizing the Live Scan system.
Step-by-Step Live Scan Process for CA Home Care Aides
To complete your Live Scan for your Home Care Aide application, follow these steps:
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Obtain the Correct Live Scan Form (LIC 9163 or Agency-Specific): It is critical to use the correct “Request for Live Scan Service” form. You can obtain the generic LIC 9163 form or, importantly, get a specific form from your potential employer or the Home Care Organization you are associating with. Always prioritize the form provided to you by the employer or organization. These forms contain unique agency-specific information necessary for proper processing. For Home Care Organizations and Home Care Aides, you can also contact the Home Care Services Branch to request a form.
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Locate a Live Scan Service Provider: Find a certified Live Scan service provider near you. The California Attorney General’s website offers a searchable map to locate nearby vendors. While the CDSS provides a list of recently active providers, it’s always best to verify operating hours and fees directly with the provider beforehand.
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Complete the Live Scan Process: At the Live Scan facility, the operator will:
- Review your Request for Live Scan Service form.
- Capture your fingerprints electronically using the Live Scan technology.
- Record your required personal information.
- Inform you of the associated fees for fingerprint processing, DOJ, FBI, and Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) checks, if applicable.
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Electronic Submission and Results: Once your Live Scan is complete, the provider will electronically transmit your fingerprints and data to the DOJ. The DOJ then processes your background check and sends the results to the Care Provider Management Branch (CPMB) of the CCLD.
Understanding Live Scan Fees and Result Timelines
Be prepared to pay fees at the Live Scan site. These fees cover the cost of transmitting your fingerprints and the background check services performed by the DOJ, FBI, and CACI if required. For a detailed breakdown of potential costs, refer to the Live Scan Fees document.
Estimated Result Timelines (for applicants without criminal history):
- DOJ Fingerprint Results: Approximately 3 days.
- FBI Fingerprint Results: Approximately 5 days.
- Child Abuse Central Index (CACI) Check: 4-6 weeks.
Keep in mind that these are estimates, and processing times can be significantly longer if there is a criminal history or if there are issues with fingerprint transmittal.
Key Takeaways for CA Home Care Aides Regarding Live Scan
- Electronic Submission is Mandatory: Live Scan is the only accepted method for fingerprint submission to the DOJ for Home Care Aide background checks.
- Use the Correct Form: Always use the Live Scan form provided by your potential employer or affiliated Home Care Organization if available.
- Factor in Fees: Live Scan services involve fees payable at the time of fingerprinting.
- Be Patient with Timelines: Background check results can take time, especially the CACI check.
By understanding the Live Scan process, California Home Care Aide applicants can navigate this essential step smoothly and efficiently, bringing them closer to their career goals in providing compassionate care.
