Fingerprinting Information
Fingerprints can be obtained by either the Ink on Cards method or by using Live Scan. A dental license will not be issued until clearance has been received from the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Board regulation requires two "classifiable" sets of fingerprints on forms provided by the Board to complete the application. Classifiable means that the prints can be "read" by the California DOJ and the FBI. Fingerprints are more likely to be classifiable if they are taken by a large local law enforcement agency such as a police or sheriff department.
Ink on Cards Method
If you are not able to be fingerprinted in California, you may go to a law enforcement agency to have fingerprints made. Two (2) cards, provided by the Dental Board, are required. Be sure to type or print legibly in black ink, all the areas on both cards asking for personal information. Ensure that it is dated and signed by the official taking the fingerprints and includes your signature. Include the two (2) cards in your application with a $49 non-refundable processing fee. Reports on cards can be received within a month after submission, or may take many months depending on factors beyond the control of the Dental Board.
- To receive a set of fingerprint cards, contact the Dental Board by e-mail dentalboard@dca.ca.gov, or call (916) 263-2300.
Live Scan Method (California Residents Only)
If you reside in California, you must use the Live Scan Service. At the Live Scan site, your fingerprints will be electronically scanned and transmitted immediately to the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for processing. Begin by following the instructions below. You must use the Board's Live Scan form, as other forms are not accepted. Live Scan forms are sent to you after your application is reviewed.
To use the Live Scan method, your Live Scan form will be sent to you after your application is reviewed. Once you receive your Live Scan Form, complete it and take a physical copy of it to a Live Scan service location. The Live Scan service location will require you to pay their fee. Your fingerprints will be taken electronically, without ink, and transmitted to the California DOJ. Finally, the DOJ will send their report to the Dental Board. Typically, the report is received within seven days. If there is a delay in receipt, it may depend on factors beyond the control of the Dental Board. There is a low rate of rejections with this method. If you use Live Scan, you are not required to submit the $49.00 fee to the Dental Board because this fee is included in the Live Scan processing fee.