If you’re starting or renewing your nursing license or applying for any healthcare position in California, you’ll likely need Live Scan fingerprinting. Whether you’re a registered nurse, CNA, medical assistant, or therapist, Live Scan is a key step in verifying your background and protecting patient safety.
At Newport Beach Mailboxes & More, we make this process quick, simple, and stress-free. Here’s what every nurse and healthcare worker should know.
What Is Live Scan Fingerprinting?
Live Scan is California’s digital method for collecting fingerprints and running background checks. Instead of using ink and paper, a certified technician scans your fingerprints electronically. Those prints are securely sent to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and, if needed, the FBI for review.
This process helps employers and licensing boards confirm your identity and check for any criminal history that may affect your eligibility to work in healthcare. It’s faster, cleaner, and more reliable than traditional fingerprint cards.
Why Healthcare Workers Need Live Scan
Healthcare workers care for vulnerable patients—children, seniors, and people with limited mobility. To protect these patients, California law requires background checks for nearly all roles in the medical field.
Live Scan is required when you’re applying for a new nursing or medical license, renewing your license through the California Board of Registered Nursing or another regulatory board, starting a new job at a hospital or clinic, or volunteering in a healthcare setting.
The background check ensures there are no disqualifying criminal convictions and helps employers meet state and federal compliance standards.
Even if you’ve been fingerprinted before, you may need a new Live Scan when applying for a different license or starting a job at a new organization. Each agency requires its own submission.
What to Bring to Your Appointment
Before your visit, your employer or licensing agency will give you a Request for Live Scan Service form (BCIA 8016). This form tells us where to send your fingerprints and which background checks are needed.
When you come to our location, bring your completed Live Scan form with the correct ORI code for your agency, a valid government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license or passport, and payment if your employer isn’t covering the cost.
The actual scanning process takes just 5 to 10 minutes, and you can walk in without an appointment.
What Happens After Your Live Scan
Once your fingerprints are scanned, we send them electronically to the DOJ and FBI within 24 hours. The background check process usually takes 2 to 3 business days, though sometimes it takes a little longer depending on agency workload.
Your results go directly to the Board of Registered Nursing, Department of Public Health, or whichever agency requested the check—not to you personally. If your results are delayed or unclear, contact the requesting agency to check the status.
How We Make It Easy for Healthcare Professionals
We understand that nurses, CNAs, and medical staff have busy schedules. That’s why we make Live Scan as fast and convenient as possible.
No appointment is required. Stop by during business hours when it works for you. Our Live Scan operators are trained and approved by the California DOJ for accurate, high-quality scans. We process and transmit fingerprints quickly to help you meet licensing or job deadlines.
We maintain a comfortable, organized space designed for efficient service. We proudly serve Newport Beach and surrounding Orange County communities with reliable fingerprinting for healthcare workers, teachers, and volunteers.
When you arrive, our staff will review your form, verify your ID, and guide you step by step. The process is simple and designed to get you back to your patients as soon as possible.
Common Questions from Healthcare Professionals
Do I need a new Live Scan every time I change jobs? Yes. Most healthcare employers require their own Live Scan submission, even if you completed one in the past. Each background check is specific to the agency requesting it.
Can I use my fingerprints from another state or employer? No. Live Scan results are tied to a particular request and cannot be shared between agencies or employers.
What if my fingerprints are rejected? Occasionally, prints are rejected due to poor image quality. If this happens, we’ll rescan your fingerprints at no additional cost.
How can I prepare for a good scan? Make sure your hands are clean and dry. Avoid putting on lotion right before your appointment. If you work with your hands and have cuts or calluses, let us know so we can take extra care.
Ready to Complete Your Live Scan?
If you’re a nurse, medical assistant, or healthcare worker who needs Live Scan fingerprinting in Orange County, we’re here to help. At Newport Beach Mailboxes, we’ve made the process fast, simple, and reliable for first-time applicants and seasoned professionals alike.
Stop by today—no appointment necessary—or call (949) 544-1616 with any questions about hours, pricing, or documentation. We look forward to helping you get your Live Scan done quickly so you can focus on what matters most—caring for your patients.
