If you’ve been offered a federal job or contract position, your agency may send you an SF-87 fingerprint card and ask you to get it “rolled.” Here is what the SF-87 is, how it differs from the FD-258, and how to get one done correctly in the Portland area.
Short answer: The SF-87 is the federal government’s fingerprint chart for federal employment background investigations. Bring the blank card your agency sent you, plus a government photo ID, to a fingerprinting provider. They roll your prints in ink, and you return the card exactly as your agency instructs. PDX Fingerprinting rolls SF-87 cards at our Beaverton, Hillsboro and Lake Oswego offices. Book an appointment.
What is an SF-87?
The SF-87 (“Fingerprint Chart”) is a U.S. government Standard Form. Federal agencies use it to submit fingerprints for background investigations of employees, applicants and some contractors. The prints are checked against FBI criminal history records as part of your suitability or security investigation.
Many federal agencies now capture prints electronically at their own sites. But remote hires, contractors and people far from an agency office are often mailed an SF-87 and told to have it completed locally.
SF-87 vs. FD-258 vs. FD-1164
| Card | Who uses it | Typical purpose |
|---|---|---|
| SF-87 | Federal agencies (Standard Form) | Federal employment and some contractor background investigations |
| FD-258 | FBI applicant card used by employers, licensing boards and agencies | Licensing, employment, immigration and many state programs |
| FD-1164 | FBI card for individuals | Requesting your own FBI Identity History Summary |
Don’t swap them. If your agency asked for an SF-87, an FD-258 can be rejected, and vice versa. Read more in SF-87, FD-258 & FD-1164 fingerprint cards explained.
How to get your SF-87 done right
- Use the card your agency sent. It is often pre-printed with the agency’s ORI number and submitting office.
- Bring an unexpired government photo ID. The technician must verify your identity and sign the card.
- Fill in your personal fields in black ink, block capitals. Leave anything you aren’t sure about blank and ask your HR contact.
- Don’t fold, staple or write in the print boxes. Damaged cards are a common reason for rejection.
- Ask how many cards you need. Some agencies want two.
- Return it the way your agency says: usually by mail to the HR or security office, not to the FBI.
Common SF-87 rejection reasons
- Smudged or partial prints (rolled too fast, or hands too dry or too oily)
- Prints in the wrong boxes, or a finger out of order
- Missing technician signature or missing applicant information
- Using a non-agency card when the agency required its own pre-filled SF-87
A rejected card can push back your start date by weeks. We check every card before you leave, and if your prints are hard to capture we take extra time and re-roll as needed. See what to do if your fingerprints are rejected.
Where to get SF-87 fingerprints in the Portland area
PDX Fingerprinting offers ink fingerprinting on agency cards, including SF-87, FD-258 and state-specific cards, at:
- 9620 NE Tanasbourne Dr, Suite 300, Hillsboro, OR 97124
- 5 Centerpointe Dr, Suite 400, Lake Oswego, OR 97035
- 1500 NW Bethany Blvd, Suite 200, Beaverton, OR 97006
- Or mobile fingerprinting at your home or office
Card pricing is on our pricing page. Call 503-212-0678 with questions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get an SF-87 done at the post office?
USPS fingerprinting is for your own FBI Identity History Summary request, not for agency SF-87 cards. Use a fingerprinting provider or the location your agency recommends.
Can I print my own SF-87?
Ask your agency first. Many require their own pre-coded card.
How long does an SF-87 background check take?
It depends on the agency and the level of investigation. Mailing and the wider investigation add time, so get your card done promptly and return it the same week.
