If you’re applying for a job in California or other states with strict background screening requirements, there’s a good chance you’ll need to undergo Live Scan fingerprinting. This process is a crucial part of many professional and volunteer roles, especially in industries where trust, safety, and regulatory compliance are essential.
In this post, we’ll explore the top 10 jobs that require Live Scan background checks, why it’s required for each, and how the process supports public safety and workforce integrity.
1. Teachers and School Employees
Anyone working in public or private schools, including teachers, administrators, and even volunteers, must pass a Live Scan background check. The goal is to ensure that children are protected by screening out individuals with serious criminal records.
- Regulating agency: California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC)
- Why it’s required: Ensures a safe learning environment for students.
2. Healthcare Professionals (Nurses, CNAs, Caregivers)
If you’re applying for a license through the California Board of Registered Nursing, the Department of Social Services, or any healthcare-related agency, Live Scan is a must.
- Roles include: Nurses, Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs), Home Health Aides, caregivers in residential facilities.
- Why it’s required: Protects patients—particularly the elderly, disabled, or vulnerable populations—from potential harm.
3. Real Estate Agents and Brokers
Before being licensed, real estate professionals must undergo Live Scan fingerprinting to check for any criminal history that could compromise consumer trust.
- Regulating agency: California Department of Real Estate (DRE)
- Why it’s required: Real estate transactions involve significant financial trust and access to clients’ homes and personal information.
4. Contractors
General contractors and specialty trade professionals (like electricians and plumbers) must pass a background check when applying for or renewing their licenses.
- Regulating agency: Contractors State License Board (CSLB)
- Why it’s required: Helps ensure consumer protection and prevents fraud in construction and home improvement services.
5. Security Guards
Because security guards often work in high-responsibility roles—protecting property, people, or sensitive areas—they are required to pass a Live Scan check before becoming certified.
- Regulating agency: Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS)
- Why it’s required: Screens out individuals with violent or felony convictions from serving in security roles.
6. Foster and Adoptive Parents
Those hoping to foster or adopt children must pass Live Scan fingerprinting as part of a comprehensive background check process.
- Regulating agency: California Department of Social Services (CDSS)
- Why it’s required: Protects children from being placed in potentially unsafe or abusive environments.
7. Taxi, Rideshare, and Commercial Drivers
Drivers working for rideshare companies like Uber or Lyft—or applying for commercial driving permits—may need a Live Scan, especially when transporting vulnerable populations like children or seniors.
- Why it’s required: Public safety concerns, especially in school transport or non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT).
8. Childcare Providers and Daycare Operators
If you’re opening a licensed daycare or working in one, Live Scan fingerprinting is mandatory. This also applies to anyone living in the home where a home-based daycare operates.
- Regulating agency: Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD)
- Why it’s required: Ensures children are in safe, secure hands while in care settings.
9. Attorneys and Legal Professionals
Before receiving a bar license, aspiring attorneys must pass a Live Scan check as part of their moral character determination.
- Regulating agency: State Bar of California
- Why it’s required: Legal professionals hold positions of high ethical and financial trust.
10. Volunteers Working With Minors or Vulnerable Adults
Many volunteer roles—especially in churches, youth sports, elder care centers, or nonprofit organizations—require Live Scan to ensure safety and accountability.
- Why it’s required: Volunteer roles often place people in positions of trust with at-risk populations.
Why Employers Require Live Scan
Live Scan fingerprinting is not just about checking a box—it’s a legal and ethical safeguard that helps ensure only qualified, trustworthy individuals gain access to sensitive roles. Employers and agencies use Live Scan to:
- Protect children, the elderly, and other vulnerable populations.
- Reduce liability and risk.
- Comply with state or federal regulations.
- Maintain a safe and professional environment.
How to Get Your Live Scan Done Quickly
Whether you’re starting a new job or renewing a license, choosing a professional and certified Live Scan provider ensures:
- Fast turnaround: Most results are sent within 1–7 business days.
- Low rejection rate: Experienced technicians ensure prints are high quality.
- Convenience: Some providers (like us!) offer mobile or group services.
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