Understanding Live Scan Results: What They Mean for You
Have you recently undergone a Live Scan for a new job, volunteer opportunity, or licensing requirement? While the process itself is quick and straightforward, the wait for your results can be nerve-wracking. This blog post from Downtown Live Scan aims to demystify Live Scan results, helping you understand what they mean and what to expect.
Beyond the Fingerprint: What a Live Scan Reveals
A Live Scan electronically captures your fingerprints and transmits them to authorized agencies, most commonly the California Department of Justice (DOJ). The DOJ then searches criminal history databases associated with your fingerprints. Here’s a breakdown of what your Live Scan results might show:
- Criminal Convictions: Your Live Scan results will reflect any criminal convictions in California, including misdemeanors and felonies.
- Arrests: Not all arrests appear on a Live Scan. The results typically only show arrests that led to convictions.
- Outstanding Warrants: Your Live Scan results will reveal any active warrants for your arrest in California.
Want more information on what a background check shows? Check out our article What Does a Criminal Background Check Show?
Interpreting Your Results
Once you receive your Live Scan results (usually delivered electronically to the requesting agency), it’s important to review them carefully. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Results are for the requesting agency: The requesting agency (employer, licensing board, etc.) will determine how your results impact your application. They may have specific criteria for acceptable background checks.
- Errors can occur: While uncommon, errors can appear on Live Scan results. If you believe there’s a mistake, contact the California Department of Justice for assistance.
What if My Results Contain Unexpected Information?
If your Live Scan results show something unexpected, don’t panic. Here’s what you can do:
- Contact the Requesting Agency: Discuss the information with them to understand how it might affect your application. They may require additional clarification or documentation.
- Challenge Errors: If you believe your results contain an error, contact the California Department of Justice to initiate a record review process.
Live Scan Help Desk: Decoding Your Results Clearly
Q: What does a Live Scan result typically include?
A: A Live Scan captures your fingerprints and sends them to the California Department of Justice (DOJ). The result often reflects things such as criminal convictions, including misdemeanors or felonies; any active warrants; and arrests that resulted in a conviction.
Q: Will every arrest show up on the report?
A: Not necessarily. Only arrests that led to convictions usually appear. Arrests without convictions often are not included.
Q: What if I see something unexpected in my results?
A: If you believe your Live Scan report has incorrect information—for example, a conviction you don’t recognize, or details that don’t match your records—you can challenge it. You’ll need to contact the DOJ for a record review. Also, communicating with the agency that requested the Live Scan can clarify what they need from you.
Q: How do your results affect applications (jobs, licenses, volunteering)?
A: The agency requesting your Live Scan—like an employer or licensing board—typically reviews the report according to its own criteria (which may include what kind of convictions are relevant, how old they are, etc.). Even a “clean” record doesn’t guarantee approval, but your results are a major component.
Q: What if there are no convictions or warrants—what will the report show?
A: You’ll usually get a status that shows you have no criminal convictions in California, no outstanding warrants, and no active criminal issues tied to your fingerprints. Essentially a clean report for that request.
Quick Reference Table
| Scenario | What Shows Up | What You Should Do |
|---|---|---|
| Convictions confirmed | Misdemeanor or felony records | Be ready to explain or provide documentation |
| Arrest w/o conviction | Usually doesn’t show | Know your rights; check with DOJ if unsure |
| Clean record | No convictions or warrants | Great! Keep your paperwork safe |
| Errors or discrepancies | Wrong name, wrong date, etc. | Contact DOJ + requesting agency to correct |
Our article What Does a Criminal Background Check Show? has more information.
Final Thoughts
Reading your Live Scan results doesn’t have to be confusing. With the right understanding, you’ll know exactly what parts matter and what next steps to take. Whether you have a clean record or see something unexpected, Downtown Live Scan is here to help you interpret your results and move forward.
👉 Want help reviewing your Live Scan report fast? Contact Downtown Live Scan today, and we can walk through your results with you.
We’re Here to Help!
At Downtown Live Scan, we understand the importance of a smooth and efficient Live Scan experience. While we cannot interpret your results or predict how a requesting agency might view them, we’re happy to answer any questions you may have about the Live Scan process itself.
Remember: A Live Scan is a snapshot of your criminal history in California. It can be a valuable tool for ensuring you meet the requirements for a new job, volunteer opportunity, or licensing board.
Contact Downtown Live Scan today to schedule your Live Scan appointment!