Guides & answers
Fingerprinting and background check guides
Straight answers to the questions we hear every day at our offices, from ORI numbers to apostilles.
Livescan basics
What Is an ORI Number, and Where Do I Find Mine?
The ORI tells FDLE where your results go and which fee applies. Here's how to find yours before your appointment.
· 2 min read
Livescan basics
Livescan vs. FD-258 Ink Cards: Which One Do You Need?
Florida agencies want electronic Livescan. Other states and some federal agencies still want ink cards. Here's how to tell.
· 2 min read
Background checks
Level 1 vs. Level 2 Background Checks in Florida
One searches by name, the other by fingerprints. Here's which one applies to your job, license or apartment.
· 2 min read
Healthcare
AHCA Level 2 Screening: A Guide for Florida Healthcare Workers
How AHCA Level 2 fingerprinting works, what to bring, what it costs and how the Clearinghouse can save you a trip.
· 2 min read
International
How to Get an FBI Background Check Apostilled for Use Abroad
Many countries won't accept your FBI record without an apostille. Here's the process and how long to allow.
· 2 min read
Out-of-state & international
Out of State? How Florida Card-to-Livescan Conversion Works
Get fingerprinted where you live, mail us your cards, and we submit them to FDLE electronically. No trip to Florida.
· 2 min read
Livescan basics
What to Bring to Your Fingerprint Appointment
ID, ORI and payment, plus a few tips that help your prints come out clean the first time.
· 1 min read
Background checks
How Long Do Florida Livescan Results Take?
Usually 24–72 hours for Florida Livescan. Here's how FBI checks, mail-in cards and apostilles compare.
· 2 min read
Have a question we didn't cover?
Call any of our offices, or walk in Monday–Friday, 9AM–5PM. Our bilingual team is happy to help.