Fingerprints for US Police Clearance: A Complete Guide

If you need a US police clearance certificate for immigration, employment, education, adoption, or even residency in another country, then fingerprints will be required.

A police clearance from the United States is issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and is a standard requirement.

In this post we have highlighted everything you need to know to get your fingerprints captured accurately and your FBI police clearance issued smoothly, especially if you are applying from India.

What is a US Police Clearance Certificate?

A US Police Clearance Certificate (commonly known as an FBI Identity History Summary Check) provides a report of your criminal history in the United States. It’s often required for:

• Immigration or visa applications
• Employment background checks
• International travel or relocation
• Adoption procedures
• Higher education applications abroad

This certificate is issued by the FBI after reviewing your submitted fingerprints.

Why Are Fingerprints Needed for FBI Police Clearance?

Fingerprints are the most reliable method of confirming your identity and criminal background. Unlike names or addresses, fingerprints are unique and unchangeable. The FBI uses these prints to check against its national database for any records associated with the applicant.

Whether you are a US citizen or a foreign national who has lived, worked, or studied in the US, submitting fingerprints is a mandatory step to receive your clearance.

Step-by-Step: How to Get Fingerprints for FBI USA Clearance

Step 1: Understand the Fingerprinting Requirement

The FBI requires fingerprint submissions on an FD-258 fingerprint card. Your prints must be rolled and flat impressions of all 10 fingers, taken by trained professionals to avoid smudging or inaccuracies.

Step 2: Visit a Professional Fingerprinting Agency

Self-inking or DIY fingerprint kits are not reliable, especially for international processes. To avoid rejection, it’s best to approach a certified fingerprinting agency.

RealScan Biometrics, based in Delhi, India, is one of the top private fingerprinting service providers recognized for FBI-compliant fingerprinting services. We use advanced equipment and offer expert assistance to ensure:

• Fingerprints are captured accurately
• Forms are filled correctly
• Documents are submitted in the required format
• Guidance is provided on how to upload or mail your fingerprint card to the FBI or its approved channelers.

Our expertise significantly reduces the chances of your application being delayed or rejected due to poor-quality fingerprints.

Step 3: Submit Fingerprints to the FBI

You have two options:

Direct Submission to FBI (CJIS) via Mail: After taking prints, mail the fingerprint card along with your identity proof and payment form to the FBI.

Submit through an FBI-Approved Channeler: These are third-party agencies authorized to collect and transmit fingerprint submissions to the FBI digitally, often with faster processing times.

Step 4: Receive Your Police Clearance

Once processed, the FBI will issue a digital and/or hard copy of your clearance certificate. Processing time can vary, but electronic applications through channelers are usually faster, within 3 to 5 business days.

Why Choose RealScan Biometrics for FBI Fingerprinting?

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Expertise in international police clearance protocols
• Trained technicians and certified processes
• Quick appointments with on-site and off-site options
• Support with apostille or attestation (if required)
• End-to-end assistance – from fingerprinting to submission

With thousands of successful fingerprint submissions for the US, RealScan has become a trusted name among individuals, corporates, and legal professionals alike.

Mistakes to Avoid During the Process

• Smudged or incomplete fingerprints
• Incorrect fingerprint card usage (e.g., using a local police card instead of FD-258)
• Misspelled personal information or missing fields
• Delayed submission or improper packaging when mailing to the FBI

Having a reliable agency like RealScan eliminates these risks entirely.

FAQs: Fingerprints for FBI Police Clearance

Q1: Can I get my fingerprints taken at a local police station in India?

A: Yes, but it’s not recommended unless the officer is trained in rolling prints on the FBI FD-258 card. Errors are common. A certified agency ensures accuracy.

Q2: What documents do I need for fingerprinting?

A: Carry a government-issued photo ID (passport, Aadhaar, etc.), a completed FBI application form (if available), and any additional instructions you have received.

Q3: Do I need an appointment for fingerprinting?

A: Yes, it’s best to schedule an appointment with our experts to ensure dedicated service and no wait time.

Q4: Can RealScan also help with apostille after I get my FBI clearance?

A: Absolutely. We provide end-to-end services, including MEA Apostille and embassy attestation, if required for immigration or employment abroad.

Q5: Can fingerprints be taken digitally for the FBI?

A: Yes, many agencies use live scan devices. However, the final submission format depends on whether the FBI accepts electronic submission from abroad or requires mailed physical cards.

Final Thoughts

Fingerprinting is the most important step when it comes to the issuance of your certificate. Whether you are in Delhi or anywhere in India, our fingerprint experts can provide you the required error-free fingerprinting services, thereby reducing stress and boosting the success rate of your application. 

If you are in need of expert, convenient, and fast fingerprinting service to pass FBI clearance, then reach out to RealScan Biometrics today and get started with confidence.