Introduction
Receiving your FBI fingerprint report can be confusing if you’re not familiar with the format, codes, and definitions. What does a “RAP sheet”, a “record hit,” or “no record” really mean? At PDX Fingerprinting, we help clients interpret their FBI background check results, clarifying what each component means for employment, licensing, or immigration purposes.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to read the report, understand common entries, and take next steps when necessary.
What Is an FBI Fingerprint Report?
Their official report is known as a Criminal History Summary or Identity History Summary. It provides:
- Personal Information – Your name(s), birth date, and aliases.
- Fingerprint Cards on File – Submission dates, agencies, and capture methods.
- Disposition Records (if any) – Arrests, charges, convictions, sentencing, or dismissals.
- Summary Statement – Indicates “No Disposition Reported” if criminal data is incomplete.
- Report Date – When the FBI generated the report.
Reports are delivered as physical documents or secure PDFs.
Common Sections & What They Mean
A. Contact Information
Verify identity accuracy—any discrepancy may lead to improper matching.
B. Fingerprint Submission Data
Details where and when your prints were captured:
Example:
- Submitted by “TX DPS – Live Scan” on 12/05/2024
- Submission method “Livescan” or “Ink card”
C. Criminal History Records
Alarms only appear if there’s a record match. Each entry usually includes:
| Field | Description |
| Arrest Date | When fingerprint scan matched a record |
| Name of Offense | Common name of the offense (e.g., “Assault”) |
| Charge Level | Felony or Misdemeanor |
| Settlement | Verdict or plea (guilty/not guilty) |
| Sentence | Jail term, probation, fines |
| Jurisdiction | State or federal court involved |
| Report Source | Police, court, or correction record provider |
A ‘No Record’ result simply means no criminal history was found based on your prints.
Interpreting Record Hits vs “No Record”
- No Record: Your prints don’t match any criminal file—this is a clean history.
- Record Hit: Your prints matched a record. Even minor offenses could appear, and it doesn’t always block your process. Employers or agencies may request additional info or context.
Important: A match isn’t a confirmation of guilt it simply means records exist.
What to Do If You Have a Match
- Review Charges Carefully
Verify if the records actually refer to you—alias names or misspellings sometimes trigger hits. - Request Disposition Details
Agencies may need court documentation showing case closure, not guilty verdicts, or sentencing. - Prepare Supporting Documents
Provide certified court disposition and documentation to complete your background check. - Consult Appropriate Authorities
For licensing boards or HR teams, provide documentation and await their decision.
Understanding Dispositions and Delays
- No Disposition Reported: The FBI has no outcome info for a matched charge. You’ll likely need official court documents.
- Case Expunged or Sealed: These may still show up unless your record was fully purged and FBI notified formally.
Example Snapshot
Name: John A. Doe
Fingerprint Submission: ORI 98765, Live Scan, 10/10/2024
Hit(s): 01/15/2005 – Third‑Degree Theft (Misdemeanor)
Disposition: Dismissed — 03/20/2005 – Court of County, Outcome: Not Guilty
This indicates that although a match exists, the case was dismissed and should not impact eligibility. Keep the disposition for your records.
Need Help Interpreting?
If you’re unsure how to handle a record hit—or want verification that your report is complete—PDX Fingerprinting can help. We review your report and offer guidance on gathering any additional documents or navigating questions from employers or agencies.
FAQs: FBI Fingerprint Report
Q: What if my report shows multiple names or birth dates?
A: Contact the FBI to correct your identity record, then resubmit your fingerprints.
Q: How soon do new arrests appear in the report?
A: It can take 1–2 weeks for arrest records to be processed and updated.
Q: What counts as a “record”?
A: Any criminal arrest or conviction submitted to the FBI. Warrants without print data usually don’t appear.
Q: Do sealed or juvenile records appear?
A: Sealed juvenile cases may still be present. Court-certified expunctions help remove these records.
Q: Can I correct inaccurate entries?
A: Yes. Submit official court documents and an FBI Identity Summary Request form.
Related Services
- Live Scan submission via FBI eDO system
- Ink & Roll FD‑258 fingerprinting
- FBI reprints for rejected prints
- Report interpretation & next-step support
Final Thoughts
An FBI fingerprint report may seem complex at first glance, but knowing what each section means helps you confidently navigate employment, licensing, or immigration processes. At PDX Fingerprinting, we not only capture your fingerprints—we help you understand—and act on—your results.Book an appointment to begin your coating-free, professional fingerprinting experience—or reach out to review your current report.
