If you’ve ever been asked to submit fingerprints for a background check, federal license, or clearance, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the FD-258 Fingerprint Card. For many people, the form name sounds confusing or intimidating, but the purpose is actually very straightforward.
The FD-258 Fingerprint Card is one of the most widely used fingerprint forms in the United States. It plays a critical role in identity verification and background checks for employment, licensing, firearms applications, immigration-related requests, and more.
In this guide, we’ll explain what the FD-258 Fingerprint Card is, why it’s used, who needs it, and how it fits into the background check process, especially for individuals in Utah.
What Is an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?
The FD-258 Fingerprint Card is a standardized fingerprint form issued by the FBI. It captures a person’s rolled and flat fingerprints along with basic identifying information.
This card is used when fingerprints need to be:
- Physically submitted
- Mailed to a federal or state agency
- Scanned and printed for compliance purposes
Because it follows FBI standards, the FD-258 Fingerprint Card is accepted by many agencies across the country.
Why Are FD-258 Fingerprint Cards Used in Background Checks?
Background checks rely on fingerprints because fingerprints are unique and reliable. Names, dates of birth, and addresses can change, but fingerprints do not.
The FD-258 Fingerprint Card allows agencies to:
- Confirm identity
- Check criminal history databases
- Verify eligibility for licenses or permits
- Prevent identity fraud
That’s why fingerprint-based background checks are often required for sensitive or regulated roles.
Common Situations That Require an FD-258 Fingerprint Card
The FD-258 Fingerprint Card is commonly used for:
- FBI background checks
- Federal employment screening
- ATF applications (Form 1, Form 4, etc.)
- Firearms licensing
- Immigration-related background checks
- Professional licensing
- Adoption or foster care screening
- Security clearances
If an agency specifically requests an FD-258, using the correct card format is essential to avoid delays.
What Information Is Collected on an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?
A properly completed FD-258 Fingerprint Card includes:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Gender
- Height and weight
- Eye and hair color
- Citizenship
- Social Security number (optional, depending on request)
- Signature
- Rolled fingerprints of all ten fingers
- Flat (plain) impressions
Accuracy matters. Even small errors can result in rejection.
Why Fingerprint Quality Matters
Not all fingerprints are equal. Smudged, light, or incomplete prints can be rejected by processing agencies.
Poor-quality FD-258 Fingerprint Card submissions may lead to:
- Application delays
- Requests for resubmission
- Missed deadlines
- Additional fees
That’s why professional fingerprinting services are strongly recommended.
Live Scan vs. FD-258 Fingerprint Card: What’s the Difference?
Live Scan and fingerprint cards are related, but not the same.
- Live Scan captures fingerprints electronically
- The FD-258 Fingerprint Card is a physical card
In many cases, fingerprints are captured via Live Scan and then printed onto an FD-258 Fingerprint Card to meet agency requirements. This approach combines accuracy with compliance.
Need a correctly completed FD-258 Fingerprint Card? FingerprintingUtah provides professional fingerprint capture and compliant FD-258 fingerprint card preparation for background checks and federal requirements.
Who Needs an FD-258 Fingerprint Card in Utah?
People in Utah often need an FD-258 Fingerprint Card for:
- Out-of-state or federal background checks
- Firearm-related applications
- Professional licenses issued by federal boards
- Immigration or international requests
- Employers requiring FBI-level screening
Since not all agencies accept electronic submissions, having a properly prepared card is essential.
Why Not Do It Yourself?
DIY fingerprinting kits are available, but they come with risks.
Common DIY issues include:
- Incorrect finger rolling
- Smudged prints
- Missing information
- Wrong card version
- Ink quality problems
Professional services reduce these risks and improve acceptance rates for your FD-258 Fingerprint Card.
How FingerprintingUtah Helps
FingerprintingUtah specializes in accurate, compliant fingerprint services designed to meet agency standards.
They help by:
- Capturing high-quality fingerprints
- Printing fingerprints on approved FD-258 cards
- Ensuring all fields are completed correctly
- Reducing rejection risk
- Supporting fast turnaround needs
This expertise makes the process smoother and less stressful.
What Happens After You Submit an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?
Once submitted, the agency:
- Scans or processes the fingerprints
- Runs checks against criminal databases
- Verifies identity
- Issues results to the requesting organization
Processing times vary based on agency workload and submission accuracy.
How Long Are FD-258 Fingerprint Cards Valid?
There’s no universal expiration date, but many agencies require fingerprints to be taken within a certain timeframe (often 30–90 days).
Always check agency requirements before submitting your FD-258 Fingerprint Card.
Common Reasons FD-258 Fingerprint Cards Get Rejected
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Smudged or unclear fingerprints
- Incomplete personal information
- Incorrect card format
- Missing signatures
- Poor ink quality
Professional fingerprinting greatly reduces these risks.
Final Thoughts
The FD-258 Fingerprint Card plays a vital role in background checks that require verified identity and high security standards. Whether you’re applying for a license, clearance, or federal approval, accuracy matters.
Using a professional service ensures your fingerprints are clear, compliant, and ready for submission, saving time and reducing frustration.
If you need a properly completed FD-258 Fingerprint Card for a background check, FingerprintingUtah provides accurate, professional fingerprinting services you can rely on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an FD-258 Fingerprint Card used for?
It’s used for fingerprint-based background checks required by federal agencies, licensing boards, and regulated applications.
Is the FD-258 Fingerprint Card the same as Live Scan?
No. Live Scan captures fingerprints electronically, while the FD-258 is a physical card, though Live Scan prints can be used to create the card.
Do all background checks require an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?
No. Some accept electronic submissions only. Others specifically require the FD-258 format.
Can my fingerprints be rejected?
Yes, if they’re unclear or incomplete. Professional services help prevent rejection.