Becoming a foster or adoptive parent is one of the most meaningful decisions a person can make. It’s a chance to open your home and heart to a child in need. But before welcoming a child into your family, the state requires a background check to help make sure the child’s new environment is safe and secure.
One important step in this process is Live Scan fingerprinting. If you’re considering foster care or adoption in California, here’s a simple guide to help you understand what Live Scan is, why it’s required, and how you can complete it quickly and easily.
What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting?
Live Scan is a digital method of taking fingerprints and sending them electronically to agencies like the California Department of Justice (DOJ) or Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). These agencies use your fingerprints to run a background check to see if there’s any criminal history.
This system is used by employers, volunteers, license boards—and yes, by adoption and foster care agencies—to make sure children are placed in safe homes.
Why Foster and Adoptive Parents Need Live Scan
The state of California requires all adults living in the home to complete a Newport Beach livescan background check as part of the foster or adoption process. This includes:
- Prospective foster or adoptive parents
- Spouses or partners
- Roommates or other family members over 18
This is done to protect children from being placed in unsafe environments. A background check helps confirm that no one in the home has a history of serious criminal behavior, especially crimes involving children or violence.
Live Scan results are reviewed by the agency handling your foster or adoption application. These agencies look for issues that may affect your ability to provide a safe, loving home.
What Documents Do You Need?
Before you get fingerprinted, you’ll need a Request for Live Scan Service form. This form is usually provided by:
- The foster care or adoption agency
- A county or state social worker
This form includes important information such as:
- The agency’s code
- Billing number (if applicable)
- Type of service required (e.g., child placement)
Make sure to fill out the form completely and bring a valid photo ID like a driver’s license or passport when you go to your appointment.
How to Complete the Process
At Newport Beach Mailboxes, Shipping Store, Notary & Livescan Fingerprinting, we make the fingerprinting process fast and easy. Here’s what to expect:
- Bring your paperwork and ID – Double-check that your Live Scan request form is filled out correctly.
- Get fingerprinted – The process takes only 10–15 minutes. Your fingerprints are scanned digitally—no messy ink involved!
- We send the data – Your fingerprints are securely sent to the DOJ or FBI based on your form.
- Results go to the agency – You won’t get results directly. They’re sent to the agency handling your foster or adoption case.
It’s that simple.
To learn more or schedule your appointment, visit our Newport Beach livescan page.
Tips for a Smooth Appointment
- Make an appointment: While walk-ins are welcome, scheduling ahead can save time.
- Bring valid ID: You’ll need government-issued identification.
- Check the form: Errors on your Live Scan form can delay your background check.
- Ask questions: If you’re not sure what to bring, give us a call before your visit. We’re happy to help!
How Long Do Results Take?
In most cases, Live Scan results are processed within 1–7 business days, but it can sometimes take longer depending on the agency or if a manual review is needed.
If it’s been more than two weeks and you haven’t heard anything, contact the agency that requested the fingerprints. We don’t receive results at our location.
Supporting Families Every Step of the Way
We know that becoming a foster or adoptive parent involves lots of paperwork, meetings, and planning. It can feel overwhelming—but fingerprinting doesn’t have to be.
At Newport Beach Mailboxes, Shipping Store, Notary & Livescan Fingerprinting, we’ve helped many families complete their Live Scan quickly and confidently. Whether you’re just starting the process or need to fingerprint multiple adults in your household, our friendly team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to Get Started?
Stop by our convenient location or schedule your fingerprinting session today. We’re committed to making your Live Scan experience smooth and stress-free, so you can focus on what really matters—giving a child a loving home.
