Live Scan Fingerprinting in San Jose: What to Bring and What to Expect
If a new job, license, or volunteer role has asked you to “complete Live Scan fingerprinting,” you may be wondering where to go and what’s involved. Good news for San Jose: you don’t need to drive across the county or wait days. At Mail Stop on Snell Avenue, Live Scan is done right at our counter, and walk-ins are welcome.
What is Live Scan?
Live Scan is electronic fingerprinting. Instead of ink, a digital scanner captures your prints and securely transmits them to the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and, when required, the FBI for a background check. It’s faster, cleaner, and more accurate than the old ink-and-card method, and it’s the standard most California employers and licensing boards now require.
Who needs it?
People come to us for Live Scan when starting a new job, applying for a professional license (nursing, real estate, contracting, security), becoming a teacher or school volunteer, adopting or fostering, or working with vulnerable populations. If an organization handed you a Request for Live Scan Service form, that’s your sign.
What to bring
Bring three things: your Request for Live Scan Service form (it lists the ORI number and billing details we need), a valid government-issued photo ID with a name that matches your application, and payment for the state/federal fees plus our rolling fee. We’ll review the total before we begin.
How long does it take?
The fingerprinting itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes. After your prints are submitted, the DOJ usually returns results to the requesting agency within a few business days. You’ll leave with a copy of your completed form as proof.
Why Mail Stop?
Because you can finish your whole list in one stop, notary, passport photos, copies, a mailbox, or a shipment, all at the same friendly counter from a team that’s served San Jose for over a decade.
Stop by Mail Stop at 6017 Snell Ave, San Jose, CA 95123 (Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-2pm). Call or text (669) 326-5883 or book at shipmailstop.com/book-an-appointment. One counter, one conversation, every need handled.
