Ink Fingerprinting: What It Is, When It's Required, and How an Appointment Works

Ink fingerprinting is a way to record your fingerprints on a physical card. A trained technician rolls each finger in ink and captures the impressions on an official fingerprint card, such as the FD-258. Many licensing boards, employers, agencies, and federal programs still request fingerprint cards.

If you are looking for fingerprinting near me and are unsure whether you need ink prints or digital Livescan, start by checking the instructions from the organization requesting your prints. The required method can depend on the program. TruVision Verification Services provides ink fingerprinting in Bloomington, MN, and mobile appointments in Minnesota, subject to availability, location, and appointment scheduling.

Why some agencies still require ink fingerprint cards

A fingerprint card is a physical document that can be completed and mailed or delivered according to the receiving agency's instructions. Agencies may request a card for:

• Professional licensing, including applications handled by an out-of-state board.
• Employment, volunteer, or occupational requirements.
• Federal forms or programs that specify an FD-258 fingerprint card.
• Some immigration-related paperwork.
• Court, legal, or regulatory processes.

The specific process varies. Some agencies accept electronic fingerprints, while others ask for a physical card. Even when a card is requested, the agency may have requirements about the card type, the information to enter, how it is submitted, or how recently it was completed.

Livescan is not automatically a substitute for traditional ink impressions. In some workflows, digital fingerprints can be printed onto a card, but that may not meet a request for original ink-rolled prints. Before booking, ask the receiving agency whether it requires traditional ink impressions or accepts a Livescan-generated card. Follow its instructions rather than assuming one method will satisfy every program.

What to bring to your appointment

A little preparation can help avoid delays or an extra trip. Bring:

• A current government-issued photo ID for identity verification.
• The fingerprint card, if the requesting agency supplied one. If you do not have a card, TruVision can provide a standard FD-258 card.
• Instructions from the requesting agency, including any required wording, card type, ORI or agency information, number of cards, and submission directions.
• A payment method for your appointment.

If you have a non-standard card or specific agency instructions, contact us before your visit so we can discuss what is needed. Do not guess at fields or instructions intended for the requesting agency. If something is unclear, ask that agency for clarification.

How an ink fingerprinting appointment works

An appointment is straightforward. The technician collects your prints and completes the card according to the information and instructions provided.

1. Check in and verify your ID. We confirm your identity and review the card or agency instructions you bring.
2. Prepare your hands. Your hands are cleaned and prepared for fingerprinting. Let the technician know if you have a cut, bandage, or other condition that could affect an impression.
3. Capture the fingerprints. The technician rolls each finger in ink and records the rolled impressions on the card. Flat impressions are also taken where the card calls for them.
4. Review the card. The technician checks the impressions and card for completeness and visible smudges before the appointment is finished.
5. Receive your next-step instructions. The card is returned or handled according to the agreed service and the receiving agency's directions.

Appointments are typically brief, although timing can vary based on the card, instructions, and whether any impressions need to be retaken. We collect fingerprints and complete the card; we do not conduct background checks or decide the outcome of an application. The receiving agency determines whether the prints meet its requirements and what happens next.



Ink fingerprinting vs. Livescan

Both methods capture fingerprints, but they differ in how the impressions are collected and submitted. Which one is right for you depends on the receiving agency's process.

	Ink fingerprinting	Livescan
What it is	Fingerprints are rolled in ink and recorded on a physical card.	Fingerprints are captured electronically on a scanner.
When it may be required	When the agency requests traditional ink impressions or a physical card.	When the agency requires or accepts electronic fingerprint submission.
How it is submitted	You or an authorized service follows the agency's directions for the completed card.	The digital submission may be sent electronically through an approved process.
Retakes and review	The technician can review the card and retake impressions during the appointment when appropriate.	The operator can review the digital capture; additional capture may be needed if an impression is not usable.

Some Livescan providers can print digital captures onto a physical card. That does not necessarily make the result equivalent to traditional ink impressions. If your instructions say "ink prints," confirm with the agency whether it accepts a card produced from Livescan.

Mobile fingerprinting for groups and workplaces

Mobile fingerprinting can help organizations arrange appointments at a workplace or another approved location. We can coordinate on-site sessions for offices, clinics, schools, licensing groups, and other organizations that need multiple people fingerprinted.

Scheduling several people in one visit can reduce individual trips and make it easier to coordinate employee availability. Before arranging a group session, share the number of people, location, preferred dates, and any agency-specific card requirements. We will discuss the setup and scheduling options with you. Mobile fingerprinting Minnesota appointments are subject to availability, location, and appointment scheduling.



Common questions

Do you provide the fingerprint cards?

Yes. We can provide standard FD-258 cards. If the requesting agency gave you a particular card, bring that card and its instructions to your appointment.

How long does an appointment take?

The fingerprinting service is typically brief. The time can vary depending on the number of cards and any special instructions or retakes. Allow time for check-in and ID verification as well.

Can you send the card to the agency for me, or do I mail it myself?

Submission instructions differ by agency. In many cases, the completed card is given to you to send or deliver as directed. Confirm the process with the receiving agency and ask us before your appointment if you need help understanding the service options. We do not promise that a card will be accepted or that it will reach an agency by a particular date.

What if a print gets rejected?

The receiving agency decides whether prints are acceptable. If it rejects a card, follow its instructions about whether you need new prints, a different card, or another submission method. Contact us to discuss whether a new collection appointment is needed.

Do you serve the Twin Cities area?

Yes. We provide in-office fingerprinting in Bloomington and serve Minneapolis–Saint Paul and surrounding Minnesota communities. Mobile appointments may also be available in Minnesota, subject to availability and location.

Book an ink fingerprinting appointment

If you are searching for ink fingerprinting near me or fingerprinting Bloomington MN, first confirm the required method with the organization requesting your prints. Then book an ink fingerprinting appointment or contact us about mobile group sessions.

We are located at 7800 Metro Parkway, Suite 300-09, Bloomington, MN 55425. For help with appointment or mobile service questions, call 952-388-0048.