Ink fingerprinting is the traditional way of taking fingerprints: each finger is rolled in ink and pressed onto a standard paper card, such as the FBI FD-258. Even with digital Live Scan widely available, many agencies, especially out-of-state and federal ones, still require a physical “hard card” that you mail in with your application.
Need ink fingerprint cards in the Portland area? PDX Fingerprinting rolls FD-258 and other hard cards at our Hillsboro, Beaverton and Lake Oswego offices. Book an appointment online.
How ink fingerprinting works
- The technician checks your ID and helps you fill in the personal details on the card.
- Each finger is inked and rolled nail-to-nail into its box on the card.
- Flat (plain) impressions of the four fingers and both thumbs are taken at the bottom of the card.
- The technician checks every print for clarity and redoes any that are smudged or too light.
- You take the finished card and mail it with your application, unless your agency gives other instructions.
Today, many offices use special inkless or low-ink pads that leave clean prints and little residue. The result is the same card, accepted the same way.
When you still need ink fingerprints
- FBI Identity History Summary requests mailed on an FD-258 card, often for visas, immigration or an FBI apostille
- Out-of-state licenses when the licensing board mails you a card, such as for California, North Carolina or Florida applicants who are not using Live Scan
- Federal jobs that use the SF-87 card
- ATF and NFA forms that require ATF fingerprint cards
- Adoption home studies, some professional licenses and international employers
Ink vs. Live Scan
Live Scan captures prints digitally and sends them straight to the agency, so results can come back faster. But Live Scan only works when the agency has set up electronic submission for your purpose. If your instructions mention a card, an FD-258 or mailing your prints, you need ink. Read our full comparison: ink vs. Live Scan fingerprinting.
Tips for clear ink prints
- Moisturize your hands for a day or two before, but not on the day of your appointment
- Wash your hands just before printing, and avoid lotion that morning
- Let the technician roll your fingers. Relaxed hands give the best prints
- Ask for an extra card if your agency is strict, so you have a spare if one is rejected
What it costs
FD-258 ink cards are $35 for the first card and $30 for each additional card. We can also take your prints and handle the FBI submission for you through our FBI background check service ($135). See all prices.
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Frequently asked questions
Are ink fingerprints still accepted by the FBI?
Yes. The FBI accepts FD-258 cards by mail for Identity History Summary requests, and many agencies require them.
Can I bring my own card?
Yes. If your agency mailed you a card, bring it and we will print on it. If not, we supply standard FD-258 cards.
How long do ink cards stay valid?
The card itself does not expire, but many agencies want prints taken recently. Check your agency’s instructions before printing far in advance.
