AZ DPS Fingerprint Clearance Cards: Who Needs One, Why, & How to Apply
If you live or work in Arizona, you may have heard of the DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card, but you might not know exactly what it is, why it’s important, or who needs one. At Trusted Identity Partners (TIP), we help individuals and businesses navigate the fingerprinting process efficiently and accurately. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about DPS Fingerprint Clearance Cards, including eligibility, the application process, and why having one matters for your career or volunteer work.
What is a DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card?
A Fingerprint Clearance Card is an official identification card issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). It confirms that a person has passed a background check conducted through both the FBI and Arizona state criminal databases. This card allows individuals to work in positions of trust, particularly in roles that involve vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities.
Unlike other forms of background checks that are tied to a specific employer, the DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card is portable, meaning it can be used across multiple jobs or volunteer positions without needing a new background check each time. This makes it a valuable credential for professionals in education, healthcare, and social services.
Who Needs a DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card?
Not everyone in Arizona is required to have a Fingerprint Clearance Card, but certain professions and roles do. Some of the most common groups who need one include:
Education and Childcare Professionals
Teachers, aides, and substitutes
Childcare center staff and daycare workers
School volunteers and coaches
Healthcare Professionals and Caregivers
Nurses, medical assistants, and home health aides
Personal caregivers for the elderly or disabled
Hospice workers and other direct care providers
Social Services and Foster Care
Social workers and case managers
Foster and adoptive parents
Residential care facility staff
Other Roles Requiring Trust and Security
Real estate and insurance agents working with sensitive client data
Volunteers for organizations serving minors or vulnerable adults
Certain positions in law enforcement, corrections, or private security
Even if your job doesn’t explicitly require a clearance card, having one can speed up employment or meet employer background check requirements, giving you a competitive edge.
Why a Fingerprint Clearance Card is Important
You might wonder why Arizona requires these cards. The main reason is safety and trust. The card ensures that individuals in sensitive roles have passed comprehensive background checks and are cleared to work with vulnerable populations.
Benefits of Having a DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card:
Community Safety: Protects children, elderly individuals, and other at-risk populations.
Employment Opportunities: Many employers prefer or require a clearance card.
Convenience: The card is portable, so you don’t need new fingerprinting for every employer.
Peace of Mind: Both employers and clients can feel confident in your background clearance.
Essentially, the DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card acts as a trusted credential that verifies your integrity and eligibility for sensitive work.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
Applying for a DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card can seem overwhelming, but the process is straightforward if you know the steps. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before applying, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements. Individuals with certain criminal convictions may be ineligible. However, DPS has a process to review criminal histories on a case-by-case basis, so it’s always worth applying if you’re unsure.
Step 2: Complete the Application
You can choose how to submit your application—either online through the Arizona DPS website or in person at a trusted provider like Trusted Identity Partners (TIP).
Online: Fill out the application from home using DPS’s secure portal. Make sure to provide accurate personal information, including your full name, date of birth, contact details, Social Security number, and any prior criminal history. Bring Your receipt and any other information provided after you complete the application with you. We will need to know if it is an IVP or Non-IVP Application and we will need the number.
In Person at TIP: If you prefer, you can come to our office and complete the application with guidance from our staff. This is especially helpful if you have questions or want to ensure everything is filled out correctly the first time.
There is also an application fee, which varies depending on whether it’s for employment or volunteering.
You’ll need to fill out an application. The application requires:
Personal information (name, date of birth, contact details)
Social Security number
Employment or volunteer information
Disclosure of prior criminal history
Step 3: Scheduling Your Fingerprints: Online vs. In-Person Applications
How you submit your DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card application affects how you’ll have your fingerprints taken:
In-Person Application at TIP: If you complete your application at our office, your fingerprints can be captured during the same appointment. This makes the process fast and convenient—you leave with everything completed in one visit.
Online Application: If you choose to fill out your application online through the Arizona DPS website, you’ll need to schedule a separate fingerprinting appointment at TIP once your application is submitted. This ensures your fingerprints are linked to your DPS application correctly.
By understanding which option works best for you, you can plan your appointment efficiently and avoid delays in processing your Fingerprint Clearance Card.
Step 4: What to Bring to Your Fingerprinting Appointment
To make your appointment smooth and hassle-free, be sure to bring:
A current, valid government-issued ID (such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
Your application number if you completed the application online
Form of payment for the fingerprinting fee and/or application fee (TIP accepts cash, card, or other accepted payment methods)
Bringing these items ensures your appointment goes quickly and your fingerprints are processed without delay.
Step 5: Submit Your Fingerprints
How your fingerprints are submitted to DPS depends on the type of application and the service option you choose at your appointment.
Identity Verified Print (IVP) Applications:
For IVP applications, Trusted Identity Partners (TIP) is required by the state to submit your fingerprint packet directly to DPS on your behalf. We handle this entire step for you to ensure it is submitted correctly and on time.Non-IVP or Other Application Types:
For all other fingerprinting applications, you have two options:TIP mails your packet for you – We can securely mail your completed fingerprint card and paperwork to DPS for an additional processing fee.
You can mail your packet yourself – If you prefer to handle the mailing, you are responsible for providing your own envelope, postage, and submission materials.
These options give customers flexibility depending on how involved they’d like us to be in the submission process. Regardless of the method, TIP ensures your fingerprints are captured accurately and meet all DPS requirements.
Step 6: DPS Background Check and Review
After DPS receives your fingerprints, they conduct a thorough background check. This includes reviewing:
Arizona criminal records
FBI records
Any relevant sex offender or protection databases
The process typically takes a few weeks, but processing times can vary depending on workload and completeness of your application.
Step 7: Receive Your Clearance Card
If your background check is clear, DPS will issue your Fingerprint Clearance Card by mail to the address you provided on your application.
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
Here are some practical tips to make your DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card application go smoothly:
Use a knowledgeable Fingerprint Provider: TIP help reduce errors and ensure your prints are properly submitted.
Check Your Criminal History: If you have prior convictions, review them before applying to see if you are eligible.
Double-Check Your Information: Typos or missing details on your application can delay processing.
Schedule Early: If your job or volunteer role requires a clearance card by a certain date, submit your application well in advance.
Keep Your Card Updated: Renew on time to avoid gaps in clearance and ensure continuous eligibility.
Renewing Your DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card
Fingerprint Clearance Cards are typically valid for six years. Renewal is similar to the initial application process but often faster because your information is already on file with DPS. You will need to:
Submit a renewal application
Pay the renewal fee
Have your fingerprints updated if required
It’s important to renew before your card expires to avoid employment disruptions or volunteer restrictions.
Why Choose Trusted Identity Partners (TIP) for Fingerprinting?
At TIP, we specialize in making fingerprinting easy and reliable. Here’s why customers choose us:
Fast and Convenient: We offer flexible scheduling and quick processing.
Secure Handling: Your personal information and fingerprints are handled securely and mailed directly to DPS.
Guidance: We help walk you through the application process to minimize delays and errors.
Whether it’s your first Fingerprint Clearance Card or a renewal, TIP ensures the process is smooth from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card is a crucial step for many professionals and volunteers in Arizona. From protecting vulnerable populations to meeting employment requirements, the card provides peace of mind for both individuals and organizations.
If you need to apply or renew your clearance card, Trusted Identity Partners is here to help. Our knowledgeable technicians, convenient scheduling, and expert guidance make it easy to get your fingerprints captured accurately and securely.
Take the next step today—visit TIP or schedule an appointment online to start your DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card application. Protect your career, your community, and your future with a trusted fingerprint clearance.
