Live scan is a fingerprinting process commonly used for background checks in various industries, including employment, licensing, and immigration. It offers a fast and efficient way to submit fingerprints for a criminal history check. One common question about this process is: Why 3 live scan copies required? This article will explore why three live scan copies are required and how they can benefit individuals and organizations alike.
What is a Live Scan?
Contents
Before delving into the reasons for needing three live scan copies, it’s essential to understand what a live scan is. Live scan is a digital fingerprinting process that electronically captures a person’s fingerprints and submits them to the appropriate authorities, such as the FBI or state background check agencies. It is more accurate and faster than traditional ink and paper fingerprinting.
The process involves scanning a person’s fingerprints using a specialized machine and storing the information digitally. This data is then transmitted to a background check agency to perform a criminal background search. This method is often preferred due to its speed, accuracy, and ease of transmission.
Why 3 Live Scan Copies are Required
There are several reasons why 3 live scan copies might be requested. The most common explanations involve ensuring that all parties involved in the background check process have the necessary documentation and guaranteeing that the information is securely stored and available for future reference.
Multiple Agencies or Organizations Involved
One primary reason 3 live scan copies are requested is that multiple agencies or organizations may need to record the fingerprint submission. Each entity might require a copy for processing, verification, or record-keeping purposes. For example, when applying for a job requiring a criminal background check, the employer might need a copy of the live scan, while the state or federal authorities might need one for their background check processes.
Redundancy and Security
Another reason for requiring 3 live scan copies is redundancy. Redundancy is essential to ensuring that data is secure and not lost. If one copy of the live scan is lost or corrupted, having additional copies ensures the process can continue smoothly. This is particularly important for sensitive data, such as criminal background checks, where delays or errors could lead to complications or misunderstandings.
Additionally, having multiple copies allows for increased security. If any agency or organization needs to access a live scan copy, they can do so without damaging the original file. This means that the integrity of the information is maintained, and there is no risk of losing critical data.
Different Processing Times and Locations
Sometimes, the 3 live scan copies are needed because the processing times for background checks may differ depending on the location or agency. For example, a state agency might process the fingerprint submission more quickly than a federal agency. By providing multiple copies, the applicant can ensure that their fingerprints are processed simultaneously at different locations, reducing potential delays.
Furthermore, some states or local jurisdictions may require a specific version of the live scan form. Having three copies, the applicant can ensure that all relevant parties receive the appropriate documentation to proceed with their background checks.
Submission to Multiple Background Check Agencies
Live scan submissions are often sent to multiple background check agencies, depending on the nature of the request. For example, an individual applying for a state license may need fingerprints sent to the state police department and the FBI. In this case, having three live scan copies ensures that each agency receives a copy of the fingerprints for processing.
In some cases, applicants might need to submit live scans to local police departments, professional licensing boards, or other regulatory bodies. Each entity may require a separate copy of the live scan results to carry out its procedures, which explains the need for multiple copies.
Personal and Professional Use
Another reason 3 live scan copies are requested is for personal and professional use. Applicants might want to keep a copy of the live scan for their records, especially if they are applying for multiple jobs or licenses over time. Keeping a copy of the live scan can also be helpful if the process needs to be repeated at a later time, as the fingerprinting information is already on file.
For professional purposes, employers or agencies that rely on live scan background checks may also require their copies for internal records. This way, the organization can track the submission and monitor the status of the background check process without having to request a new scan each time.
How Many Live Scan Copies Do You Need?
The number of live scan copies you need can vary depending on the purpose of the background check. For example, if you are applying for a job in a state where the employer only needs to submit the fingerprints to a specific agency, you may only need to provide one copy. However, in other cases, such as when applying for a professional license or working in a regulated industry, you may need to submit multiple copies.
To determine how many live scan copies you need, it is essential to carefully review the instructions provided by the agency or organization requesting the background check. The requirements for live scan submissions can vary from state to state and from one employer or regulatory body to another.
Benefits of Having Multiple Live Scan Copies
Flexibility
Multiple copies of the live scan provide flexibility, especially when working with different agencies or organizations. Since live scan copies are often sent electronically, each agency may have variations in processing times or requirements. By providing multiple copies upfront, applicants can avoid delays or complications caused by missing documentation.
Speed of Processing
By submitting multiple live scan copies, applicants can expedite the processing of their background check. When different agencies have copies of the live scan, they can begin their review and processing immediately, without waiting for another copy to arrive. This can help speed up the overall process, which is especially important for time-sensitive applications.
Avoiding Errors
Errors in background check submissions can cause significant delays. Having multiple copies of the live scan minimizes the risk of errors or misunderstandings between agencies. If one copy is not processed properly, other copies are available to ensure the process continues without unnecessary interruptions.
Better Tracking
Having several copies of the live scan allows for better application process tracking. Different agencies can reference their copies as needed, making it easier to track the status of background checks and identify any issues that need to be addressed. This helps applicants stay informed about their background check status and ensures all necessary steps are taken to complete the process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, requiring 3 live scan copies ensures that all relevant parties have the necessary documentation for background checks, improves data security, and helps prevent delays. It provides redundancy, speeds up processing, and ensures the process runs smoothly, making it an essential step for applicants and agencies involved.
