When agencies or employers request fingerprinting through Live Scan, one detail can make the process easier for applicants: the billing number. Instead of requiring each applicant to pay fees upfront, agencies can assign a billing number that covers the Department of Justice (DOJ) and FBI fees. At Downtown Live Scan, we work with many organizations that use billing numbers to streamline the process for their staff, volunteers, and license applicants.
Live Scan Help Desk: What Is a Billing Number?
Q: What is a Live Scan billing number?
A: A billing number is a unique code assigned by the California DOJ to agencies or organizations. It allows the DOJ and FBI fees to be billed directly to the agency, rather than paid by the applicant at the fingerprinting location.
Q: What are the benefits of using a billing number?
A:
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Convenience for applicants: They only pay the rolling fee at the Live Scan location.
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Faster group processing: Great for employers, schools, nonprofits, and government agencies handling many applicants.
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Clearer accounting: Agencies get a detailed invoice directly from DOJ/FBI for all applicants.
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Reduced errors: Ensures the correct fees are paid without applicants guessing or paying wrong amounts.
Q: Who can request a billing number?
A: Only agencies, employers, or organizations can request a billing number directly from the DOJ. Applicants themselves cannot request one. If you are an individual applicant, you’ll either need to pay your own DOJ/FBI fees at your appointment or ask if your agency has a billing number on file.
Q: Do I still need to bring my form if my agency has a billing number?
A: Yes. The Live Scan form still needs to list the ORI code, Applicant Type, and billing number provided by your agency. Without the form completed correctly, the DOJ will not process the request.
Quick Reference Table
| Who Pays Fees? | Without Billing Number | With Billing Number |
|---|---|---|
| Individual Applicant | Applicant pays DOJ, FBI, and rolling fee | Applicant pays only the rolling fee |
| Agency/Employer | N/A | DOJ/FBI bill agency directly |
| Convenience | Slower, more steps for applicants | Faster, fewer out-of-pocket costs |
Final Thoughts
Billing numbers make Live Scan fingerprinting easier for organizations and less stressful for applicants. By covering DOJ and FBI fees directly, agencies reduce paperwork, speed up group appointments, and provide a smoother experience.
At Downtown Live Scan, we’re experienced in processing both standard Live Scans and those tied to billing numbers.
👉 Does your agency have a billing number? Sign up for Corporate Billing.