usps-fbi-fingerprint services allow individuals to submit ink or digital fingerprints directly to the FBI through select United States Postal Service locations. These services support background checks for employment, visas, licensing, and legal matters. Approximately 80 post offices nationwide offer this service as part of a formal partnership between USPS and the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division. Applicants must schedule appointments by calling (800) 767‑8252 and bring a completed FD‑1164 fingerprint card printed on plain white 8.5 × 11‑inch paper. The average cost is around $90, which includes card printing, equipment use, and processing. Service hours typically run Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though availability varies by location.
How FBI Fingerprint Submissions Work Through USPS
When you go to a participating USPS location for fingerprinting, trained staff collect ten rolled ink impressions—five from each hand—using standardized FBI forms. Each print must be clear, complete, and free of smudges. After collection, the card undergoes an on-site quality check. If approved, USPS forwards it to the FBI’s CJIS Division in Clarksburg, West Virginia. The FBI then scans the card and compares the prints against its national database, which holds over 100 million records. This process supports Identity History Summary (IHS) checks, which list any arrests, convictions, or pending cases linked to your fingerprints.
Required Documents and Form Specifications
All applicants must present a current FD‑1164 form. Older versions are rejected without exception. The card must be printed on plain white, 20‑lb. bond paper with no watermarks, colored backgrounds, or logos. Handwritten entries are not accepted—everything must be typed or machine-printed. You’ll also need to provide your full name, date of birth, signature, and reason for the request (e.g., visa, job clearance). Digital submissions follow similar rules but use live scan technology that captures images electronically and sends them directly to the FBI within 24–48 hours.
Cost Breakdown and Payment Options
The total fee for a complete USPS fingerprinting session averages $90. This covers form printing, ink pad and scanner use, staff assistance, and shipping to the FBI. Local post offices may charge slightly more or less depending on regional costs. The FBI also charges a separate $18 processing fee for each Identity History Summary request. This payment can be made online via the CJIS Credit Card Payment Form or by mailing a check with your fingerprint card. Without this fee, the FBI will not process your background check.
Digital vs. Ink Fingerprinting at USPS
USPS offers both traditional ink-based and modern digital fingerprint capture. Ink fingerprinting uses physical cards and is ideal for applicants who prefer paper documentation or lack internet access. Digital fingerprinting, known as Live Scan, captures images electronically and transmits them faster to the FBI. For visa applicants, digital submission is often required. To use this option, you must first register on the Electronic Data Operations (EDO) portal at edo.cjis.gov, pay the $18 fee, and obtain an EDO order number. Then, book your appointment at a participating post office and present the order number during your visit.
Turnaround Times and FBI Processing
Standard processing for mailed ink fingerprint cards takes five to ten business days after the FBI receives them. Digital submissions are typically processed within five to seven days. Expedited service is available for an extra fee, reducing wait times to two to three business days. Delays can occur if prints are unclear, forms are incomplete, or payments are missing. Applicants can track their request status using the FBI’s online portal once their payment clears.
Participating Locations and Appointment Scheduling
Not all post offices offer fingerprinting services. As of 2024, about 80 locations participate in the USAccess Point program. To find one near you, call (800) 767‑8252 or visit the USPS Retail Customer Service Appointment System. Walk-ins are not accepted—appointments are mandatory. When booking, provide your name, contact information, and preferred time slot. Service hours are generally Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but some locations may close earlier or have limited weekend availability.
Additional Services Available at Fingerprinting Sites
Many USPS fingerprinting locations also offer related services to streamline your visit. These include overnight parcel drop-off for FedEx, UPS, and USPS Express Mail. You can ship documents with tracking and delivery confirmation, ensuring your materials reach federal agencies securely. Some sites provide notary services, passport photo capture, and certified mail options. Ask staff during your appointment about bundled offerings that might save time and money.
Common Reasons for FBI Fingerprint Requests
People request FBI fingerprint background checks for many reasons. Common uses include employment with government agencies, teaching licenses, nursing certifications, adoption applications, and immigration visas. Foreign nationals applying for U.S. visas often need digital fingerprints submitted through USPS. Law enforcement agencies also use these services for volunteer screenings and contractor vetting. Each request must clearly state the purpose to ensure proper routing and compliance.
What Happens If Your Prints Are Rejected?
If the FBI rejects your fingerprint card due to poor quality, smudging, or incorrect formatting, you’ll receive a notification by mail or email. You must then resubmit a new card with fresh prints. There is no refund for the initial $18 processing fee. To avoid rejection, follow all instructions carefully: roll each finger from nail to nail, apply even pressure, and ensure no overlapping or blurring. USPS staff perform a preliminary review, but only the FBI makes the final decision.
Privacy and Data Security Measures
USPS and the FBI follow strict privacy protocols. Personal data collected during fingerprinting is protected under federal law, including 39 U.S.C. § 401 and the Privacy Act of 1974. Information is used solely for background check purposes and is not shared with third parties without consent or legal requirement. Digital systems use encryption to protect biometric data during transmission. Paper cards are stored securely before being destroyed after scanning.
Contact Information and Support Resources
For questions about USPS fingerprinting appointments, call (800) 767‑8252. For FBI processing updates or payment issues, visit the CJIS Division website or call 304‑625‑5590. If you applied through a state agency like Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services, contact their ChildLine Verification Unit at 717‑783‑6211. Technical support for IDEMIA/IdentoGo scanners is available at 1‑844‑321‑2101. Always keep your receipt and EDO order number for reference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many users have similar questions about usps-fbi-fingerprint services. Below are detailed answers based on official guidelines and real-world experience.
Can I get my fingerprints done at any post office?
No. Only about 80 post offices across the U.S. currently offer FBI fingerprinting services. These locations are part of the USAccess Point pilot program. You must call (800) 767‑8252 to confirm if your local post office participates and to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are not accepted, and services are not available at standard retail counters.
Do I need to bring my own fingerprint card?
Yes, unless you’re using a PrintScan center that provides pre-printed forms. The FD‑1164 card must be printed on plain white 8.5 × 11‑inch paper. Colored, recycled, or watermarked paper will cause rejection. Download the latest version from the FBI’s official website to ensure compliance. Handwritten cards are not accepted—all fields must be typed or machine-printed.
How long does it take to receive my FBI background check?
Standard processing takes five to ten business days for ink submissions and five to seven for digital. The clock starts once the FBI receives your payment and card. Delays happen if prints are smudged, forms are incomplete, or fees are unpaid. Expedited service reduces this to two to three days for an additional cost. Track your request online after payment confirmation.
Is digital fingerprinting faster than ink?
Yes. Digital fingerprinting uses Live Scan technology to send images directly to the FBI within 24–48 hours. Ink cards must be physically mailed, which adds transit time. For visa applicants, digital submission is often required and speeds up adjudication. However, not all USPS locations offer digital capture—check availability when booking.
What if I make a mistake on my fingerprint card?
Do not correct errors with whiteout or tape. The FBI will reject altered cards. Instead, print a new FD‑1164 form and start over. Ensure all personal details match your ID exactly. If you’re unsure, ask USPS staff for help during your appointment. They can verify legibility and completeness before submission.
Can I pay the FBI fee at the post office?
No. The $18 FBI processing fee must be paid separately—either online via the CJIS Credit Card Payment Form or by mailing a check with your fingerprint card. USPS does not collect this fee. Payment must clear before the FBI begins processing. Keep your receipt for tracking purposes.
Are children required to get fingerprinted?
It depends on the purpose. Most employment and licensing checks apply only to adults. However, some states require fingerprinting for foster parents, adoptive parents, or volunteers working with minors. Check with your requesting agency for age-specific rules. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the appointment.
Official Resources and Links
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to these official sources: FBI Identity History Summary Checks: https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks USPS Identity Capture Portal: https://ips.usps.com/IdentityCapture/ PrintScan USPS Fingerprinting: https://www.printscan.com/usps-fingerprinting/ Electronic Data Operations (EDO) Portal: https://edo.cjis.gov
Contact Details
FBI CJIS Division Address: 1000 Custer Hollow Road, Clarksburg, WV 26306 Phone: (304) 625-5590 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. ET
