Live Scan fingerprinting is generally a fast and efficient way to complete background checks for employment, licensing, volunteering, or legal matters in California. In most cases, results are processed within a few business days. But what happens when that doesn’t happen? What if your Live Scan results are delayed—and your job, license, or application is stuck waiting?
Delays in Live Scan processing are rare, but they can occur. Whether you’re in Newport Beach or anywhere else in California, here’s what to do (and what not to do) if your Live Scan results haven’t arrived when expected.
Step 1: Know the Normal Processing Time
Before you assume something’s wrong, it’s important to know what the normal turnaround time looks like:
- DOJ-only background check: Usually 2–3 business days
- DOJ + FBI background check: Typically 3–7 business days
- With criminal record hits: Up to 30 days or more
- Paper fingerprint cards (out-of-state/federal): Can take several weeks
Most Live Scan results are returned quickly—but if you’re past the 7-business-day mark with no update, it’s time to take action.
Step 2: Use Your ATI Number to Track Status
When you completed your Live Scan, the technician gave you a copy of your Request for Live Scan Service form with an ATI number printed at the bottom.
This number is your tracking code.
To check the status:
- Visit the California DOJ status page:
https://applicantstatus.doj.ca.gov - Enter your ATI number and date of birth.
- Check to see if your Live Scan is still “in progress,” “completed,” or “rejected.”
📌 If your status is “completed” but the requesting agency says they haven’t received the results, you may need to follow up with that agency directly—they may have missed the notice or experienced a technical issue.
Step 3: Contact the Requesting Agency
If your ATI number shows your results have been processed but your employer, licensing board, or school hasn’t received them, reach out to them first. They are the only party that can officially receive and interpret the background check results.
Ask:
- Have they received your Live Scan results?
- Is there a delay in their internal review process?
- Is the ORI number on your Live Scan form correct?
Errors in the ORI number (used to route results to the correct agency) are one of the most common causes of delays.
Step 4: Check for Fingerprint Rejection
Sometimes fingerprints are rejected due to poor quality. If this happens:
- The DOJ or FBI will notify the requesting agency.
- You will typically be contacted and asked to return for a free resubmission.
- You must bring the original form and a valid ID again.
Rejections can happen due to dry skin, worn fingerprints, or scanner issues. To avoid this, keep your hands moisturized the week before your appointment and avoid lotions or oils the day of your scan.
Step 5: Contact the DOJ Applicant Processing Unit (if needed)
If you still haven’t received any update after:
- 7 business days with no status update,
- Your ATI number shows no progress,
- Or your requesting agency hasn’t received anything…
Then it may be time to contact the California DOJ’s Applicant Processing Unit:
📞 Phone: (916) 227-3823
🕒 Business Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST
Be prepared to provide:
- Your ATI number
- Date of birth
- Type of request (job, license, etc.)
- The agency that requested the Live Scan
They can investigate further and let you know if your prints were received, rejected, or if there’s an issue with transmission.
Step 6: Consider a New Submission (if instructed)
In rare cases, your results may be lost or unrecoverable due to technical errors. If that happens, the requesting agency may ask you to complete a new Live Scan.
While frustrating, this is sometimes the only way to move forward. The good news? If the delay wasn’t your fault, many Live Scan providers will offer a free or reduced-cost reprint, especially if you go back to the same location.
Final Tips to Avoid Delays in the First Place
- Double-check that your Live Scan form is complete and correct
- Bring a valid, current photo ID
- Choose a reputable Live Scan provider in Newport Beach
- Ask the technician to confirm your ORI code and billing number
- Keep your receipt with ATI number safe—you’ll need it for tracking
Final Thoughts
While Live Scan is usually a fast and smooth process, delays can happen. The key is knowing how to track your status, who to contact, and what steps to take if something doesn’t go as planned. Most issues are minor and can be resolved quickly—but staying proactive can save you time and frustration. We recommend Newport Beach Livescan.
