As you begin the real estate licensing process, you’ll find there are a few key administrative steps to complete: getting your fingerprints done for a background check. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about fingerprinting, from finding a location to tracking your results, so you can smoothly navigate this requirement and get closer to your real estate career goals.
Key Takeaways
- Submit Fingerprints Early: It is recommended that you submit your fingerprints at least five days before submitting your license application to avoid delays.
- Bring Proper Identification: You will need to bring two forms of valid identification, with at least one being a photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Track Your Submission: After your appointment, you can track the status of your fingerprint submission online using the Transaction Control Number (TCN) provided on your receipt.
- Understand Validity Periods: Your fingerprint results are valid with the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) for 12 months, providing you with ample time to resolve any application issues.
Understanding the Fingerprinting Requirement
Getting your fingerprints taken is a mandatory part of earning your Florida real estate license. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) requires all applicants to undergo a criminal background check to ensure public safety and uphold professional standards in the industry. This process helps verify your identity and confirms that you meet the character requirements for licensure. Completing this step correctly and on time is essential for a smooth application process.
Approved Fingerprinting Locations for Florida Real Estate License
You must use a LiveScan service provider that is approved by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). These providers are equipped to capture your fingerprints electronically and submit them directly to the necessary state and federal agencies.
Finding a location
To find an approved provider, you can visit the FDLE’s official website for a complete list of LiveScan locations. Two of the most common providers are Pearson VUE and IdentoGO, which have numerous sites across the state. Gold Coast Schools also offers convenient, on-site fingerprinting services at our six campus locations, making it easy for our students to complete this requirement. You can schedule an appointment directly with us and get your fingerprints taken in a familiar setting.
Scheduling an appointment
Once you have chosen a provider, the next step is to book an appointment. We recommend scheduling your fingerprinting session at least five days before you plan to submit your real estate license application. This allows ample time for your prints to be processed and sent to the DBPR.
- In-State Applicants: You can easily schedule an appointment online through the provider’s website. Gold Coast students can book their appointments directly through our student portal.
- Out-of-State Applicants: If you live outside of Florida, you can still complete the process. Look for a “hard card scanning capable” provider on the FDLE list. They can process traditional ink-and-paper fingerprint cards. You can request a fingerprint card from the DBPR, have your prints taken at a local law enforcement agency, and then mail the card to your chosen Florida provider for processing.
Costs and Payment for Fingerprinting Services
Being prepared for the costs associated with fingerprinting will help you plan your budget as you work toward your license.
Pricing overview
The total cost for fingerprinting can vary depending on the service provider. Gold Coast Schools’ fingerprinting fee is $83. This fee typically covers the electronic scanning service, the state (FDLE) processing fee, and the federal (FBI) background check fee. Always confirm the total cost with your chosen provider when you schedule your appointment. Most providers accept major credit cards, and some may also accept money orders or certified checks.
Additional fees
The primary fee usually covers everything, but it is wise to ask about any potential additional charges. For real estate applicants, the ORI number to use is FL920010Z. Providing this exact number is critical to ensure your results are sent to the DBPR for your real estate license application. Using the wrong number could result in your application being delayed and may require you to pay for the service again.
The Fingerprinting Process Explained
The electronic fingerprinting process is quick, clean, and straightforward. Knowing what to expect will help you feel prepared for your appointment.
What to bring
Bring two forms of valid identification to your fingerprinting appointment. One of them must be a government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms of identification include:
- A valid driver’s license or state identification card
- A passport
- A military ID
You will also need to know your Social Security number, but you do not need to bring your physical card.
Electronic fingerprinting process
The LiveScan fingerprinting process is much more efficient than traditional ink methods. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to what happens during your appointment:
- Your identification will be verified by the technician.
- You will provide your demographic information and the correct ORI number.
- The technician will capture your fingerprints by having you roll each finger across a glass plate on a digital scanner.
- The scanned images are immediately sent electronically to the FDLE for processing.
- You will receive a receipt that includes a Transaction Control Number (TCN). Keep this receipt in a safe place, as you will need the TCN to track your results.
The entire process usually takes only about 5 to 10 minutes.
Post-Fingerprinting Steps and Status Tracking
After your appointment, your part is done for the moment. Your fingerprints are now on their way to being processed by state and federal authorities.
Monitoring your fingerprint submission
You can check the status of your fingerprint submission on the FDLE’s Civil Workflow Control System (CWCS) website. You will need the Transaction Control Number (TCN) from your receipt to look up your transaction. The results are typically sent to the DBPR within two to five business days. If your application is processed before your fingerprint results are received, it will be marked as incomplete, so it is important to time your submission accordingly.
Timing and Validity of Fingerprints
Understanding the timeline for your fingerprint results is key to keeping your application on track without any unnecessary hurdles.
Submission timing
As a best practice, get your fingerprints taken before submitting your application. We recommend completing your fingerprinting at least five days before submitting your license application to the DBPR. This provides a buffer for the FDLE and FBI to process your background check and transmit the results.
Validity period
Your fingerprint results will be retained by the DBPR for 12 months from the date they are received. This gives you a full year to complete your application and resolve any deficiencies that may arise. If you do not complete your application within this timeframe, you will need to be fingerprinted again. Please note that, according to FBI regulations, fingerprints cannot be shared between professions. This means you will need a new set of prints for each type of license you are pursuing.
Troubleshooting and Deficiency Resolution
Even with careful planning, issues can sometimes arise. Knowing how to handle them will keep the process moving forward.
Common issues and solutions
If you receive a deficiency letter from the DBPR regarding your fingerprints, it means they have not yet received your results. Your first step should be to contact the provider where you had your prints taken to confirm they were submitted correctly. If your fingerprints were rejected because they were illegible, the DBPR will notify you. You’ll need to return to the same provider to have your prints re-rolled, and you must bring the notification letter with you.
Support and resources
If you have issues with a LiveScan provider, you’ll need to resolve them directly, as the DBPR does not regulate these services. Always ask for a detailed receipt at your appointment. For questions about your application status, you can contact the DBPR directly at 850.487.1395.
Get Started on Your New Career Today
Completing the fingerprinting requirement is a simple but vital step on your path to becoming a licensed real estate agent in Florida. By following this guide, you can handle the process with confidence and ensure your application proceeds without a hitch. You’re now one step closer to launching a rewarding and successful career.
If you’re ready to take the next step, Gold Coast Schools is here to support you. With 55+ years of experience helping students succeed, we offer expert-led pre-licensing courses and on-site fingerprinting services to make your journey as smooth as possible. Enroll with us today and let us help you build the foundation for your future in real estate.