When providing fingerprinting services in 2026, one of the most common points of confusion for clients is whether they need a state-level check (like FDLE in Florida or DCJS in New York) or a national-level FBI check.
The difference isn’t just about geography; it’s about the “depth” of the search. An FBI fingerprinting session submits to the Next Generation Identification (NGI) system—the national criminal history database that aggregates records from all 50 states and federal agencies. This is the check that catches what a state-only search might miss: a criminal record in a neighboring state, a federal conviction, or a history spanning multiple jurisdictions.
Who Needs FBI Fingerprinting?
While many standard jobs only require a state check, several specific categories mandate an FBI national background check:
-
Federal Positions: Applicants for federal employment or federal contractor roles.
-
Financial Professionals: Individuals seeking FINRA registration or working in high-level banking.
-
International Travel/Immigration: U.S. citizens or residents requesting their own Identity History Summary for a foreign visa, residency, or international employment.
-
Adoptions: Both domestic and international adoption processes frequently require a full FBI history.
-
Licensing Boards: Certain high-stakes professional boards (like nursing or law) that require a national sweep to ensure no out-of-state records exist.
The Two Paths to FBI Submission
-
Through an Agency: When an employer or licensing board initiates the check, they provide an ORI code. The fingerprints are submitted through an authorized channeler (like Certifix) as part of a pre-defined background check package.
-
Personal History Summary (28 CFR 16): This is for individuals who need their own record for personal or foreign use. They can request this directly through authorized FBI channelers. For international purposes, some foreign agencies still require traditional ink cards (FD-258) rather than a digital live scan.
The Value of the FBI Check
-
Comprehensive: It is the “gold standard” for security clearances and federal trust.
-
Global Recognition: Essential for anyone moving abroad or working for international NGOs.
-
FINRA Compliance: Non-negotiable for the financial services sector.
Considerations: Processing times for FBI checks can vary, and not all mobile platforms are authorized for direct FBI submissions. Furthermore, international clients may require a “wet-ink” card to be mailed, which requires a notary with specialized fingerprinting equipment and manual card-stock expertise.
The jbensonNotary Advantage
Launched in 2026, jbensonNotary was established to lead the digital and physical transformation of the New York professional services market. We understand the nuances between state-level submissions and complex FBI national requirements.
At jbensonNotary, we provide a superior professional edge by combining new-business energy with obsessive attention to detail. We “touch” every single file 8 or 9 times to ensure your submissions—whether they are going to a state capital or the FBI’s NGI system—are flawless. We are the human element of your most sensitive background checks, providing the expertise and precision you deserve for the world of 2026.
Ready to ensure your background check is submitted to the right agency? Visit www.jbensonNotary.com to secure your session today!
Category: Fingerprinting | Notary Services
Tags: #FBIFingerprinting #FDLE #jbensonNotary #NYNotary #BackgroundChecks #LiveScan #NationalSecurity #ClosingSuccess2026