Can you get fingerprinted at the post office? Yes, more than 2,500 USPS locations across the United States offer digital fingerprinting services using IDEMIA Live Scan technology. These sites are mostly in big cities and some rural areas. The service sends your fingerprints directly to the FBI for background checks. You can find nearby locations using PrintScan’s online map, which shows hours, appointment slots, and zip code filters. This makes it easy to plan your visit.
How USPS Fingerprinting Works
USPS fingerprinting uses secure digital scanners to capture ten fingerprints. The process starts online. You must register on the USPS Digital Fingerprint portal. During registration, you provide your Social Security Number, driver’s license number, and email. The system creates a QR code. Take this code to your chosen post office. A clerk scans it to begin the scan. The device records your prints and sends them safely to the FBI.
You do not need an appointment at most locations. Just walk in during business hours. Bring a government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license, passport, military ID, or green card. If your ID has no photo, bring a second document such as a utility bill or bank statement to prove your address. The fee is usually $45 to $50. Results come back from the FBI in three to five business days.
Where to Find USPS Fingerprinting Locations
Not every post office offers fingerprinting. Only locations with IDEMIA Live Scan kiosks provide this service. Use PrintScan’s interactive map to find one near you. Enter your zip code to see nearby offices. The map also shows corporate centers in Rockville, Maryland, and Denver, Colorado. You can filter by open hours and available time slots. This helps you pick the best time to go.
Most fingerprinting sites are in urban areas. But some rural post offices also have the service. Since 2021, USPS has expanded access. Before the expansion, people traveled an average of 120 miles. Now, many travel only 25 miles. This makes fingerprinting faster and easier for millions of Americans.
What to Bring for Your Fingerprint Appointment
Bring one primary ID with a photo. Accepted IDs include state driver’s licenses, U.S. passports, military IDs, or Permanent Resident Cards. If your primary ID lacks a photo, bring a second document to confirm your address. Examples are a recent utility bill, bank statement, or voter registration card. Both documents must show your current name and address.
Wear a short-sleeve shirt. This lets the technician see your fingertips clearly. Avoid hand creams or lotions before your visit. They can blur ridge details and cause errors. If you have tattoos on your fingers, let the clerk know. They may need to adjust the scan area. Arrive five minutes early. This gives time to check your QR code and start on schedule.
Cost and Payment Options
The standard fee for USPS fingerprinting is $45 to $50. This covers the scan and data transfer to the FBI. Payment methods vary by location. Most accept cash, credit cards, or money orders. Ask your local post office about accepted forms before you go. Some locations may charge extra for rush processing or additional copies. Always confirm pricing when you arrive.
There are no hidden fees. The cost includes encryption, transmission, and basic result delivery. If you need faster service, check if expedited options are available. Standard FBI processing takes three to five business days. You’ll get an email when results are ready. Use the link in your confirmation email to download your report.
Why Use USPS for Fingerprinting?
USPS offers a trusted, secure way to submit fingerprints. The partnership with IDEMIA ensures high-quality scans. Data is encrypted and sent directly to the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services Division. This reduces errors and speeds up background checks. Many employers, licensing boards, and government agencies accept USPS-submitted prints.
Using USPS is convenient. You don’t need to visit a police station or private firm. Most people live within 25 miles of a participating post office. Walk-in service means no scheduling hassles. The process takes less than 15 minutes. For jobs, visas, or licenses, USPS fingerprinting is a fast, reliable choice.
Common Uses for FBI Background Checks
People get fingerprints for many reasons. Job applicants often need them for employment screening. Teachers, healthcare workers, and federal contractors require FBI checks. Immigrants use them for visa or green card applications. Licensing boards for real estate, nursing, or security jobs also request prints. Some volunteer roles need background checks too.
Each purpose may require different forms. Always check with the requesting agency before your visit. They may need specific forms or codes. USPS only captures fingerprints. You must provide any required paperwork. Keep your confirmation email. It contains your reference number for result retrieval.
What Happens After Your Fingerprint Scan
After scanning, your data is encrypted and sent to USPS’s central hub. It is formatted and forwarded to the FBI. The FBI compares your prints against criminal databases. Most results return in three to five business days. You’ll get an email notification when ready. Click the link to log into the Electronic Delivery Order portal. Download your official report.
If there’s an error, contact USPS or the FBI immediately. Mistakes can delay your application. Keep your receipt and confirmation number. They help track your submission. Never share your results publicly. Only send them to authorized agencies. Unauthorized use can violate privacy laws.
Tips for a Smooth Fingerprinting Experience
Prepare ahead of time. Register online before visiting the post office. Have your ID and QR code ready. Wear clothes that expose your fingers. Avoid lotions or gloves. If your hands are cold, warm them first. Cold fingers can affect scan quality. Stay calm during the process. The technician will guide you step by step.
If you make a mistake, ask for a re-scan. Most locations allow one free retry. After that, you may need to pay again. Double-check your personal details during registration. Wrong names or numbers cause delays. Bring a printed copy of your QR code. Phone screens sometimes fail to scan properly.
USPS Fingerprinting vs. Other Options
You can also get fingerprints at police stations, sheriff’s offices, or private companies. But USPS is often faster and cheaper. Many law enforcement agencies charge more or require appointments. Private firms may add service fees. USPS locations are widespread and open during regular hours. No appointment is needed at most sites.
USPS uses the same FBI-approved scanners as other providers. The quality is identical. The main advantage is convenience. You can combine fingerprinting with mailing or passport services. This saves time. For most people, USPS is the best choice for FBI background checks.
History of USPS Fingerprinting Expansion
In January 2021, USPS announced a partnership with IDEMIA. The goal was to add digital fingerprinting to 400–500 post offices by year-end. By December 2021, over 250 sites were active. This cut average travel distance from 120 miles to 25 miles. The program continues to grow. Today, more than 2,500 locations offer the service.
This expansion helps rural and underserved communities. Before 2021, many people had to drive hours for fingerprints. Now, most Americans live near a participating post office. The service supports employment, immigration, and public safety. It’s part of USPS’s effort to offer more digital services.
Security and Privacy Protections
Your fingerprint data is protected by federal law. USPS and IDEMIA use encryption during capture and transmission. Only authorized agencies can access your results. USPS does not store your prints. Data is deleted after processing. The FBI follows strict privacy rules under the Privacy Act of 1974.
You control who sees your results. Only send reports to verified organizations. Never post them online. If you suspect misuse, report it to the FBI or USPS. Your biometric data is sensitive. Treat it like your Social Security Number. Keep all documents secure.
Frequently Asked Questions About USPS Fingerprinting
Do I need an appointment? No, most locations accept walk-ins. Register online first to get your QR code. Can I use a passport without a photo? No, your ID must have a clear photo. A passport card is acceptable if it includes your picture. What if my prints are unclear? Ask for a re-scan. Most sites allow one free retry. How long do results take? Usually three to five business days. Can I pay with a check? Most locations prefer cash or card. Call ahead to confirm.
Is the service available on weekends? Some post offices offer weekend hours. Check the map for specific times. Can minors get fingerprinted? Yes, with parental consent and proper ID. What if I move after submitting? Your results go to the FBI, not your address. It won’t affect delivery. Can I get a copy for myself? Yes, download it from the FBI portal. Keep it safe.
Official Resources and Contact Information
For more details, visit the USPS Digital Fingerprint portal. Create your profile and find locations. PrintScan’s website also provides maps and updates. If you have questions, call your local post office. Ask for the retail services desk. They can confirm hours, fees, and ID requirements. For technical issues, contact USPS customer service.
USPS does not sell your information. Data is used only for fingerprint processing. It is not shared with third parties. Your privacy is protected under federal law. Always use official sites to avoid scams. Never pay for fingerprinting through unofficial links.
Final Tips Before You Go
Double-check your registration details. Make sure your name, SSN, and email are correct. Bring two forms of ID if needed. Arrive early to avoid rush. Wear short sleeves. Avoid hand products. Stay calm and follow instructions. The process is quick and secure. Once done, check your email for FBI results. Use the link to download your report.
If you need help, ask the clerk. They are trained to assist. Keep your receipt and confirmation number. Store them safely. Your fingerprints are now on file with the FBI. Use your report only for authorized purposes. Congratulations—you’ve completed a key step for your job, visa, or license.
Related Services at USPS
While visiting, you can also renew passports, send packages, or buy stamps. Many post offices offer passport photos and application help. Some locations provide notary services. Combine tasks to save time. Check your local office’s website for full service lists. USPS aims to be a one-stop shop for public needs.
Digital services are growing. USPS now offers online scheduling, package tracking, and mail forwarding. Fingerprinting is part of this shift. More biometric and identity services may come in the future. Stay updated through official USPS channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get fingerprinted at any post office? No, only locations with IDEMIA Live Scan kiosks offer this service. Use PrintScan’s map to find one near you. Over 2,500 sites are available, mostly in cities and some rural areas. Not all post offices participate, so always check before visiting.
Do I need to make an appointment? Most locations do not require appointments. Walk-ins are welcome during business hours. However, you must register online first to generate your QR code. Some busy offices may suggest calling ahead. Weekends and holidays may have limited hours.
What forms of ID are accepted? You need a government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, military ID, or green card. If your primary ID lacks a photo, bring a second document like a utility bill or bank statement to verify your address. Both must show your current name and address.
How much does it cost? The fee is typically $45 to $50. This covers the scan and data transfer to the FBI. Payment methods vary—most accept cash, credit cards, or money orders. Confirm accepted payments with your local post office before arriving.
How long do FBI results take? The FBI usually returns background check results within three to five business days. You’ll receive an email notification when ready. Use the link in your confirmation email to access the Electronic Delivery Order portal and download your report.
Can I rescan if my prints are unclear? Yes, most locations allow one free re-scan if the first attempt fails. After that, you may need to pay again. Avoid hand lotions, gloves, or cold fingers before your visit to improve scan quality.
Is my fingerprint data safe? Yes. Data is encrypted during capture and transmission. USPS does not store your prints. The FBI follows strict privacy rules. Only authorized agencies can access your results. Never share your report publicly.
Official USPS Fingerprinting Portal
https://www.usps.com
Customer Service: 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777)
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:30 PM local time
For location-specific hours, use the USPS store locator tool.