Fingerprinting for Employment: What Employers Don’t Always Explain

If you have recently accepted a job offer or are preparing to work in a regulated industry, there is a strong chance fingerprinting is part of your pre employment process. While most employers inform candidates that fingerprints are required, many do not fully explain what the process involves, how to prepare, or what can cause delays.

Understanding what to expect ahead of time can make your appointment faster, smoother, and far less stressful.

At Trusted Identity Partners, we regularly assist professionals across industries who need fingerprinting for employment. One of the most common things we hear from clients is, “My employer did not tell me any of this.” This guide will help fill those gaps so you can walk into your appointment confident and prepared.

Why Employers Require Fingerprinting

Fingerprinting is used to verify identity and conduct background checks. Employers rely on this process to promote workplace safety, meet regulatory requirements, and protect the communities they serve.

Industries that frequently require fingerprinting include:

• Education and childcare
• Healthcare
• Financial services
• Government roles
• Real estate
• Nonprofit organizations
• Security positions

For many of these roles, fingerprint clearance is not optional. Employment may be delayed or even rescinded if the requirement is not completed correctly or on time.

What employers sometimes fail to explain is that not all fingerprinting services are the same. Knowing exactly what your employer requires is critical.

Not All Fingerprinting Methods Are Identical

This is one of the biggest sources of confusion for job candidates.

There are multiple fingerprinting methods used across the United States. Some agencies accept digital submissions, while others require physical fingerprint cards that you submit yourself.

Trusted Identity Partners provides professional fingerprint card services. We do not offer ink fingerprinting, and we do not transmit fingerprints electronically. Many applicants are surprised to learn that electronic submission is not always an option depending on the requesting agency.

Before scheduling your appointment, confirm these details with your employer or licensing agency:

• Do you need fingerprints on a specific card, such as an FD 258?
• Does the agency provide the fingerprint card, or should you bring one?
• Are there special instructions that must be followed?

Clarifying these requirements ahead of time can prevent costly mistakes and repeat appointments.

Arizona Employment Fingerprinting: What You Should Know About DPS Clearance Cards

If you are seeking employment in Arizona, your fingerprinting requirements may involve more than submitting a fingerprint card. Many positions across the state require a DPS Fingerprint Clearance Card, issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

Employers sometimes assume candidates already understand this process, but for many professionals, this is their first time hearing about it.

A DPS Clearance Card confirms that you have successfully passed a state and federal background check. It is commonly required for roles that involve working with vulnerable populations or positions of public trust.

You may be asked to obtain this card if you are pursuing a career in:

• Education
• Childcare
• Healthcare
• Behavioral health
• Financial services
• Real estate
• Certain nonprofit roles

IVP vs Non IVP: Understanding the Difference

One of the most important details employers do not always clarify is that there are two types of DPS Clearance Cards.

Choosing the wrong one can delay your employment, so it is critical to confirm the requirement before submitting your application.

• IVP Clearance Card
  IVP stands for Identity Verified Prints. This card is typically required for positions that involve direct contact with children, students, or other vulnerable individuals. Schools and many childcare organizations require IVP cards because they involve a higher level of scrutiny.

• Non IVP Clearance Card
  The standard, or non IVP card, is used for many licensed professions that still require a background check but may not involve the same level of direct supervision or care.

If you are unsure which version you need, always verify with your employer or licensing agency before your fingerprint appointment.

Avoid a Common Arizona Mistake

Some applicants schedule fingerprinting before confirming whether a DPS Clearance Card is required. Others submit the wrong application type and must restart the process entirely.

Both situations can add weeks to your hiring timeline.

Taking a few extra minutes to confirm your requirements can save significant time and frustration.

At Trusted Identity Partners, we regularly assist Arizona professionals with fingerprint cards needed for DPS applications. While we do not submit fingerprints electronically, we ensure your fingerprint card is completed accurately so you can move forward with your clearance process.

When it comes to employment fingerprinting in Arizona, preparation is not just helpful. It is essential.

What Employers Often Forget to Tell You to Bring

Showing up unprepared is one of the most common reasons appointments take longer than necessary.

Make sure you have the following:

• A valid, government issued photo ID
  Your identification must be current and match the name used in your employment paperwork.

• The correct fingerprint card
  If your employer mailed you a card, bring it with you. If you were instructed to obtain one yourself, confirm the correct version before your appointment.

• Any required forms
  Some agencies require additional paperwork that must accompany your fingerprints.

• Payment method
  Ask about accepted payment types in advance so there are no surprises.

Arriving prepared helps your appointment stay efficient and keeps your hiring timeline moving forward.

Timing Matters More Than You Think

Many candidates wait until the last minute to complete fingerprinting, assuming it is a quick item to check off their list. In reality, processing times vary depending on the agency conducting the background check.

Delays can impact:

• Start dates
• Licensing approvals
• Training schedules
• Onboarding timelines

Scheduling your fingerprint appointment as soon as you receive instructions is one of the simplest ways to protect your employment start date.

Employers may not emphasize how important timing is, but experienced providers see the consequences of waiting too long.

How to Avoid Smudged or Rejected Prints

Another detail employers rarely discuss is print quality.

Poor quality fingerprints can be rejected by the receiving agency, forcing you to repeat the process. This creates unnecessary stress and can delay your ability to begin working.

To help produce clear prints:

• Avoid lotions or oils before your appointment
• Stay hydrated, as dry skin can affect print clarity
• Inform your technician about cuts or skin conditions
• Relax your hands during the process

Working with an experienced fingerprint technician also makes a significant difference. Proper technique helps capture prints that meet agency standards the first time.

Common Misconceptions About Employment Fingerprinting

Let’s clear up a few myths that often cause confusion.

“Fingerprinting takes a long time.”
In most cases, the appointment itself is quick when you arrive prepared.

“Any fingerprinting location will work.”
Not necessarily. Always confirm that the provider can complete the type of fingerprinting your agency requires.

“My employer handles everything after the appointment.”
When fingerprint cards are required, you are typically responsible for submitting them according to the agency’s instructions.

“I can wait until my start date gets closer.”
Waiting is risky. Background checks do not always move at the same speed.

Understanding these realities can help you avoid unnecessary complications.

Choosing the Right Fingerprinting Provider

Selecting a professional provider is about more than convenience. Accuracy, attention to detail, and experience all contribute to a smoother process.

At Trusted Identity Partners, we focus on creating an efficient and professional experience from the moment you walk through the door. Our team understands how important this step is in your employment journey, and we work carefully to help you complete it correctly.

Clients choose us because we provide:

• Knowledgeable guidance
• Professional service
• Efficient appointments
• Clear communication

When fingerprinting is done right the first time, it supports a more seamless hiring process.

Set Yourself Up for Success

Fingerprinting may feel like a small administrative task, but it plays a major role in your path to employment. Being informed, prepared, and proactive can make the difference between a smooth onboarding experience and frustrating delays.

Employers do their best to communicate requirements, but important details are sometimes overlooked. Taking the initiative to understand the process protects both your time and your opportunity.

If fingerprinting is on your employment checklist, Trusted Identity Partners is here to help you complete the process with confidence and professionalism.

Schedule your appointment today and take the next step toward your new role with clarity and peace of mind.