IdentoGO Fingerprints: How Long Does it Take?

IdentoGO, a service provided by IDEMIA, serves as a vital link for individuals needing to submit fingerprints for various purposes, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) often requires these fingerprints for background checks. The processing time is a common concern, and understanding how long does IdentoGO take to process fingerprints is crucial for applicants. The specific duration can vary based on factors such as the completeness of the applicant's information and the responsiveness of the receiving agency, which could be everything from state licensing boards to potential employers.

In today's world, background checks are no longer a rarity; they've become a routine requirement across numerous sectors. From securing employment in regulated industries to obtaining professional licenses and ensuring public safety, the demand for thorough vetting processes continues to surge. This has led to the rise of specialized service providers like IdentoGO, playing a crucial role in facilitating these essential checks.

The Growing Need for Background Checks

The proliferation of background checks reflects a societal shift towards prioritizing safety and accountability. Employers, licensing boards, and security agencies are increasingly relying on background checks to make informed decisions, mitigate risks, and maintain public trust.

This trend is particularly evident in sectors such as:

• Healthcare
• Education
• Finance
• Government

Each of these fields carries inherent responsibilities and requires individuals with a demonstrated commitment to ethical conduct and adherence to regulations.

IdentoGO: A Key Provider of Live Scan Fingerprinting

Among the various background check service providers, IdentoGO stands out as a prominent player, specializing in Live Scan Fingerprinting. This technology captures fingerprints electronically, eliminating the need for traditional ink-based methods.

IdentoGO operates a vast network of enrollment centers, making fingerprinting services accessible to a wide range of applicants. Their services are crucial for various background check requirements, including those mandated by the FBI and state agencies.

Understanding the Core Issue: Processing Time

While IdentoGO streamlines the fingerprinting process, a common concern among applicants revolves around processing time. How long will it take for the background check to be completed?

This is a critical question, as delays can significantly impact employment opportunities, licensing applications, and other time-sensitive matters. Understanding the factors that influence processing time is essential for managing expectations and planning accordingly.

The Impact of Potential Delays

The timely completion of a background check can be the deciding factor in securing a job, obtaining a license, or gaining access to certain facilities. Delays can lead to missed opportunities, financial setbacks, and unnecessary stress.

Therefore, it's crucial to be aware of potential bottlenecks in the process and to take proactive steps to mitigate their impact. This blog post will explore the various factors that can affect IdentoGO processing times, providing you with the knowledge and tools to navigate the background check process effectively.

The IdentoGO Fingerprinting Journey: From Appointment to Submission

Once you understand the need for a background check and have identified IdentoGO as your service provider, the next step is navigating the fingerprinting process itself. This involves several key stages, from scheduling your appointment to ensuring your data is securely submitted.

Let’s break down each step to provide clarity and understanding of what to expect.

Appointment Scheduling: Your First Step

The first step in your IdentoGO fingerprinting journey is scheduling an appointment. IdentoGO primarily utilizes its online portal for this purpose, ensuring convenience and efficiency.

Scheduling via the IdentoGO Website

The IdentoGO website serves as the central hub for scheduling your appointment. The exact steps may vary slightly depending on your state and the specific background check required, but generally, you'll need to:

• Visit the IdentoGO website for your state. Be sure to select the correct state as requirements and procedures can differ.
• Locate the "Schedule Appointment" or similar link.
• Follow the on-screen prompts to select your service and preferred location.

Essential Information for Scheduling

Before you begin, gather the necessary information. This typically includes:

• ORI Number (Originating Agency Identifier): This is a unique code assigned to the agency requesting the background check. It’s crucial to have the correct ORI number, as it ensures your fingerprints are sent to the right place.
• Reason for Fingerprinting: You'll need to specify the reason for the background check (e.g., employment, licensing).
• Personal Information: Be prepared to provide your name, address, date of birth, and other identifying details.

Finding the Nearest IdentoGO Enrollment Center

IdentoGO boasts a widespread network of enrollment centers. Use the online portal to find the closest and most convenient location. Consider factors such as:

• Proximity: Choose a location that's easily accessible from your home or workplace.
• Operating Hours: Select a center with hours that fit your schedule.
• Appointment Availability: Check for appointment slots that align with your needs.

The Fingerprinting Session: What to Expect

With your appointment scheduled, it’s time to prepare for the fingerprinting session itself. Knowing what to expect can alleviate anxiety and ensure a smooth experience.

Arriving at the IdentoGO Enrollment Center

Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a Fingerprint Technician. You’ll typically need to present a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport.

The Role of the Fingerprint Technician

The Fingerprint Technician is responsible for capturing your fingerprints using the Live Scan machine. They are trained to ensure accuracy and adherence to established procedures. Don't hesitate to ask them questions if you have any concerns.

The Live Scan Machine and Software

IdentoGO utilizes Live Scan technology, which electronically captures your fingerprints without ink. The process involves placing your fingers on a glass plate, where a scanner records the unique patterns.

The associated software ensures high-quality images and proper data capture.

Rolled vs. Flat Fingerprints

Two primary types of fingerprints are captured: rolled and flat.

• Rolled Fingerprints: These involve rolling each finger from nail to nail to capture a complete impression.
• Flat Fingerprints: These are simple, direct impressions of each finger.

  Both types are essential for a comprehensive background check.

Fingerprint Submission: Directing Your Data

Once your fingerprints are captured, IdentoGO securely transmits the data to the relevant agencies. This process is crucial for ensuring your information reaches the correct destination.

Data Transmission to Relevant Agencies

IdentoGO acts as a conduit, sending your fingerprint data to agencies like the FBI, state law enforcement, or other authorized recipients. The destination depends on the specific background check requirements.

The Channeling Process

The "channeling" process is vital. It ensures your fingerprints are directed to the appropriate agency based on the ORI number and the reason for fingerprinting. This is why providing accurate information during scheduling is so important.

Data Handling and Security: Protecting Your Privacy

Data security is paramount. IdentoGO implements robust measures to protect your personal information and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

Security Measures and Privacy Policy

IdentoGO adheres to strict security protocols to safeguard your data from unauthorized access. Their Privacy Policy outlines how they collect, use, and protect your information.

It’s always a good idea to review their policy to understand your rights.

Compliance with Data Protection Regulations

IdentoGO complies with all applicable data protection regulations, such as state privacy laws and federal guidelines. This ensures your information is handled responsibly and ethically.

The FBI's Role: Processing Your Fingerprints and Criminal History

Understanding the journey of your fingerprints requires tracing their path beyond IdentoGO to their final destination: often the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The FBI plays a pivotal role in many background checks, acting as the central repository for criminal history data. This section unpacks the FBI's involvement, shedding light on its databases and how criminal history records are created.

The FBI: The Central Hub for Fingerprint Data

For numerous background checks, the FBI serves as the ultimate recipient of the fingerprint data collected by IdentoGO. This isn't merely a passive reception; the FBI actively processes this information to build and maintain comprehensive criminal records. It's crucial to recognize that the speed and accuracy of this processing directly affect the overall turnaround time for your background check.

Navigating the NGI: The FBI's Database

The heart of the FBI's fingerprint processing lies within its Next Generation Identification (NGI) system. The NGI is a vast database containing biometric and biographic information on millions of individuals. Its primary purpose is to:

• Provide a centralized repository for criminal history data.
• Facilitate the identification of individuals based on fingerprint submissions.
• Support law enforcement agencies nationwide.

Think of the NGI as a sophisticated matching system. When your fingerprints are submitted, the FBI uses the NGI to search for potential matches against existing records. This process involves complex algorithms and human review to ensure accuracy.

How the FBI Processes Fingerprint Submissions

The FBI's fingerprint processing follows a defined workflow. This process, which is technology-driven, ensures accuracy and efficiency. It includes the following steps:

1. Receipt and Verification: The FBI receives the electronic fingerprint submission from IdentoGO and verifies its integrity.

2. Automated Matching: The NGI system automatically searches for potential matches based on the submitted fingerprints.

3. Review and Confirmation: If a potential match is identified, trained FBI personnel review the records to confirm the match and assess the individual's criminal history.

4. Record Update: If a match is confirmed, the individual's criminal history record is updated with the new fingerprint submission.

Criminal History Record Information (CHRI): Building the Full Picture

The culmination of the FBI's fingerprint processing is the creation or updating of Criminal History Record Information (CHRI). CHRI is a comprehensive record of an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system.

What CHRI Includes

CHRI typically encompasses the following types of information:

• Arrest records.
• Indictments or charges filed.
• Convictions.
• Sentencing information.
• Custodial information (e.g., incarceration).

It's important to understand that CHRI is not simply a list of convictions. It provides a more complete picture of an individual's involvement with the legal system.

CHRI's Genesis and Utilization

CHRI is generated directly from fingerprint submissions. When an individual is arrested, their fingerprints are taken and submitted to the FBI. This submission triggers the creation of a new CHRI record or the updating of an existing one.

Background check agencies use CHRI to assess an individual's suitability for employment, licensing, or other purposes. The information contained in CHRI helps decision-makers evaluate potential risks and make informed choices.

CHRI Limitations and Accuracy Considerations

While CHRI is a valuable tool, it's essential to acknowledge its limitations:

• Accuracy is paramount. Data entry errors or incomplete records can lead to inaccurate CHRI.
• CHRI only reflects reported interactions with the criminal justice system. It may not include all instances of criminal behavior.
• Expunged or sealed records may not be included in CHRI, depending on state laws and regulations.
• The presence of an arrest record in CHRI does not necessarily indicate guilt. It's crucial to consider the context of the arrest and any subsequent disposition.

Therefore, when interpreting CHRI, it's imperative to exercise caution and consider the potential for inaccuracies or incomplete information.

Decoding the Delay: Factors Influencing IdentoGO Processing Times

The speed of an IdentoGO background check isn't a constant. Many variables can dramatically impact how long the entire process takes. Understanding these factors empowers you to anticipate potential delays and plan accordingly. These influencing factors exist both within the IdentoGO process itself and in the external systems it interacts with. Let's delve into the key elements that affect processing times.

Data Quality and Transmission: The Foundation for Speed

The journey of your fingerprints starts with image capture, and the quality of those images is paramount. A clear, precise fingerprint image is processed much faster. Conversely, poor image quality can trigger delays.

The Impact of Fingerprint Image Quality

Suboptimal fingerprint images increase processing time. When prints are smudged, distorted, or incomplete, the system struggles to find a reliable match. This forces manual review by fingerprint experts, adding considerable time to the process. High-quality fingerprints, on the other hand, allow for quick and accurate automated processing.

Transmission Errors and Rejections

Even with perfect fingerprints, data transmission issues can arise. Transmission errors or rejections occur when the data is corrupted during transfer. This necessitates resubmission, adding days to the overall processing time. Network stability and proper data handling protocols are crucial to prevent such errors.

Tips for Ensuring Good Fingerprint Quality

You can take steps to minimize issues related to fingerprint quality. Ensure your hands are clean and dry before the Live Scan. Avoid touching the scanner surface excessively. Listen carefully to the fingerprint technician's instructions during the session. By following these guidelines, you contribute to a smoother, faster background check.

FBI Workload and Backlogs: An External Bottleneck

IdentoGO submits fingerprint data to various agencies, with the FBI being a primary recipient for many background checks. The FBI's workload significantly affects processing times.

The Impact of FBI Workload

The FBI's Next Generation Identification (NGI) system processes millions of fingerprint submissions. When the system is under heavy load, processing times inevitably increase. This is due to resource constraints and the sheer volume of data being processed.

Seasonal and Event-Driven Surges

Demand for background checks fluctuates. Certain times of the year, such as the holiday hiring season, witness significant surges. New legislation or policy changes can also trigger a spike in background check requests. These surges create backlogs, leading to longer wait times.

Real-World Examples of Delays

Imagine a scenario where a new federal law requires background checks for all employees in a specific industry. This sudden influx of requests would overwhelm the FBI's processing capacity, causing considerable delays for everyone. Or, consider the surge in background checks before the start of the school year as educational institutions vet new staff and volunteers. These examples highlight the impact of external factors on processing times.

State-Level Processing: Adding Another Layer

In some cases, the FBI is not the only agency involved. State-level processing can add another layer to the background check.

The Role of State Agencies

State Police or State Bureaus of Investigation might conduct their own independent checks in addition to the FBI check. They may maintain their own databases and have specific procedures for processing fingerprint submissions. This dual-level processing naturally extends the overall turnaround time.

State-Specific Requirements

Different states have varying requirements for background checks. Some states might require additional information or documentation. This may include local criminal history checks or verification of professional licenses. These state-specific requirements inevitably add to the overall processing time. It is useful to research and understand the specific requirements of the state that the background check is being conducted for.

Managing Expectations and Tracking Your IdentoGO Background Check

The IdentoGO fingerprinting process, while streamlined, involves numerous factors that can influence the final processing time. It's crucial to approach this process with realistic expectations and understand how to monitor your submission effectively. This section provides practical guidance on navigating the timeline, tracking your progress, and exploring potential expedited options.

Understanding Quoted vs. Actual Processing Times

It’s important to recognize that the processing times quoted by IdentoGO or related agencies are estimates, not guarantees. These estimates are based on average processing times under normal circumstances. However, as previously discussed, various factors can cause these times to fluctuate.

Factors Contributing to Processing Time Variations

Data quality, FBI workload, and state-level processing requirements all play a role. A higher volume of submissions to the FBI, for example, will inevitably lead to longer processing times. Similarly, if your fingerprints are of suboptimal quality and require manual review, this will add time to the process. State-specific requirements can also extend the overall turnaround.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Given these variables, it’s prudent to add a buffer to the estimated processing time. Instead of expecting the background check to be completed within the quoted timeframe, factor in a potential delay of several days or even weeks, depending on the specific circumstances. This is especially important if you have a deadline related to employment, licensing, or another time-sensitive matter.

Typical Processing Time Ranges

While specific timelines vary, it’s helpful to have a general idea of expected processing times. Under ideal circumstances, with high-quality fingerprints and no backlogs, the FBI portion of the background check might take a few days. However, it's more realistic to anticipate a processing time of 1-4 weeks. If state-level processing is required, this could add additional time.

Checking the Status of Your Fingerprint Submission

Fortunately, IdentoGO provides avenues for tracking the status of your fingerprint submission. This allows you to stay informed and proactively address any potential issues.

Utilizing the IdentoGO Website/Online Portal

The primary method for checking your status is through the IdentoGO website or online portal. You'll typically need your registration ID or application number, along with your date of birth, to access your information. The specific steps may vary depending on the state and the type of background check, so it's essential to refer to the instructions provided during your initial registration.

Navigating the Website and Interpreting Status Updates

Once logged in, look for a section labeled "Check Status," "Track My Application," or something similar. The website will typically display the current status of your submission, which might include terms like "Submitted," "In Progress," "Completed," or "Results Sent."

If the status remains unchanged for an extended period, it could indicate a delay. Be sure to carefully read any accompanying messages or notes, as they may provide additional information about the reason for the delay or any actions required from you.

When and How to Follow Up

If the processing time exceeds the realistic range discussed earlier, it's appropriate to follow up. First, double-check the IdentoGO website for any updated information or announcements regarding processing delays. If nothing is posted, you can contact IdentoGO customer service for assistance. Be prepared to provide your registration ID, date of birth, and any other relevant information.

Keep in mind that IdentoGO may not be able to provide specific details about the status of the background check if it's being processed by the FBI or another agency. In some cases, you may need to contact the receiving agency directly, but only do so if instructed by IdentoGO or if you've exhausted all other options.

Exploring Expedited Processing Options

In certain situations, expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. This option, if offered, can significantly reduce the turnaround time for your background check.

Availability and Eligibility

Expedited processing is not available for all types of background checks or in all locations. It's typically offered for specific purposes, such as employment in critical infrastructure or healthcare. Eligibility requirements vary depending on the type of background check and the receiving agency.

Fees and Procedures

If expedited processing is an option for your specific case, the IdentoGO website or customer service representative will provide information on the associated fees and procedures. Be aware that the fees for expedited processing can be substantial, so carefully weigh the costs against the benefits before making a decision.

The process for requesting expedited processing typically involves completing an additional form or selecting a specific option during the initial registration. Be sure to follow all instructions carefully and provide any required documentation to ensure that your request is processed correctly. Keep in mind that even with expedited processing, there is no guarantee of a specific completion date, as unforeseen delays can still occur.

Real-World Scenarios: IdentoGO Processing Time Examples

To truly grasp the nuances of IdentoGO processing times, it's helpful to consider specific, real-world-inspired scenarios. These examples illustrate how various factors—fingerprint quality, FBI workload, and state-level involvement—can interact to influence the overall turnaround time for your background check.

Scenario 1: The Ideal Case – High-Quality Prints, Low FBI Workload

Imagine an applicant submitting fingerprints for a routine employment background check. They attend their IdentoGO appointment and the fingerprint technician captures clear, high-quality images. This means minimal smudging, accurate rolling of each finger, and optimal contrast.

Furthermore, imagine this submission occurs during a period of relatively low demand at the FBI. There are no significant backlogs or surges in requests.

In this ideal scenario, the processing time can be remarkably swift. The FBI can efficiently scan and analyze the fingerprints, find no issues, and return the results quickly.

The entire process, from the IdentoGO appointment to the completion of the background check, could potentially take as little as a few business days. This is the best-case scenario, where all factors align favorably.

Scenario 2: The Potential Delay – Suboptimal Prints During Peak Season

Now consider a different situation. An applicant is getting fingerprinted for professional licensing, but the fingerprint images are less than perfect. Perhaps the applicant has dry skin, which creates faint or broken ridges.

Or maybe they moved during the rolling process, resulting in some blurring. The technician does their best, but the images are still somewhat marginal.

Simultaneously, this submission occurs during a peak season for background checks – perhaps around the holidays when many companies are hiring seasonal staff, or after the introduction of some legislative requirement.

The FBI is inundated with requests and resources are stretched thin. These factors combined can drastically increase the processing time.

The suboptimal fingerprint quality might require manual review by an FBI examiner, adding significant time. The high workload means the submission sits in a queue for longer.

In this situation, the background check could take several weeks, or even a month or more, to complete. This highlights the impact of both data quality and external demand on processing times.

Scenario 3: The State-Level Component – Adding Another Layer of Processing

Finally, consider a scenario where the background check requires state-level processing in addition to the standard FBI check. This is common for certain professions, such as teaching or law enforcement, where states want to maintain their own databases and conduct independent reviews.

The applicant's fingerprints are initially submitted to IdentoGO, who then forward them to both the FBI and the relevant State Police or Bureau of Investigation.

The FBI processes the fingerprints as usual, but the state agency also has its own procedures and timelines. They might cross-reference the fingerprints against state criminal records, check for outstanding warrants, or conduct other investigations.

Even if the FBI portion of the background check is completed quickly, the state-level processing can add significant delays. Each state has its own workload, resources, and processing times.

In this scenario, the overall background check process could take several weeks or even months, depending on the state's requirements and efficiency. It's crucial to factor in this potential delay if your background check involves state-level processing.

These scenarios underscore that IdentoGO processing times are not fixed. They're influenced by a complex interplay of factors. Understanding these variables allows you to set realistic expectations and proactively manage your background check experience.

So, there you have it! Getting your fingerprints done at IdentoGO is usually pretty quick. Just remember to schedule ahead, bring the right documents, and factor in a bit of potential wait time. Once your fingerprints are submitted, IdentoGO take to process fingerprints and send them to the requesting agency typically only takes a few days, though the agency's own processing time will vary. Good luck with whatever you need them for!