Fingerprinting might be required for work, licensing, identification, or screening. When that moment arrives, knowing where to get your fingerprints taken in Utah becomes important. Not every location handles every type of request.
Police departments sometimes offer prints, private services specialize in it, and certain government offices may process them as well. Choosing the wrong location can waste time or delay your background check.
Different places handle fingerprinting in different ways. Some locations only provide traditional ink cards, while others offer digital Live Scan fingerprinting. Certain providers submit prints directly to the FBI or state agencies, while others simply give you the fingerprint card to send yourself. Because of these differences, picking the right place matters.
Below are the most common places across Utah where to get your fingerprints taken in Utah.
Private Fingerprinting Services
Private fingerprinting providers focus entirely on collecting and submitting fingerprints. These businesses typically have trained technicians, specialized equipment, and the ability to send results directly to government databases.
Most private providers offer both digital Live Scan fingerprinting and traditional ink fingerprint cards. They can also submit prints directly to the FBI or state agencies depending on the purpose of the background check.
Typical services offered include:
- Live Scan digital fingerprinting
- Ink fingerprint cards (FD-258)
- FBI background check submissions
- State-level fingerprint processing
- ATF and FFL fingerprinting for firearm licensing
- Driving privilege card fingerprinting
Private providers are often the fastest option because they handle fingerprinting regularly and are equipped to avoid common mistakes.
Law Enforcement Agencies
Some police departments and sheriff offices in Utah offer fingerprinting services to the public. However, this option is becoming less common and usually has limitations.
Typical characteristics include:
- Ink fingerprint cards rather than digital scans
- Limited appointment hours
- Restricted services depending on department policy
- Service sometimes limited to residents of the jurisdiction
Before visiting a police station, it is best to call ahead and confirm:
- Whether they provide fingerprinting for the public
- Appointment requirements
- Identification needed
- Service fees
UPS Store Locations
Some UPS Store locations provide fingerprinting services through third-party partnerships. These locations generally use Live Scan technology for digital fingerprint capture.
However, not every UPS Store offers fingerprinting. Each store is independently owned, meaning availability and pricing can vary.
Things to check before visiting:
- Whether the location offers fingerprinting
- If appointments are required
- The types of fingerprint submissions they support
- Accepted forms of payment
Employer or School Fingerprinting
Certain organizations conduct fingerprinting internally for employees or students. Schools, hospitals, and government agencies sometimes host fingerprint sessions for staff.
These services are typically restricted only to individuals associated with that organization.
Mobile Fingerprinting Services
Mobile fingerprinting services bring equipment directly to your location. This option is particularly useful for organizations that need fingerprinting for multiple people.
Mobile fingerprinting is often used for:
- Companies onboarding new employees
- Schools with large staff background checks
- Group licensing events
- Individuals with mobility limitations
A technician arrives with Live Scan equipment and completes the process on-site.
Finding Professional Fingerprinting Services
Across Utah, professional providers often offer the most reliable fingerprinting experience. One well-known option is fingerprinting Utah, which operates locations along the Wasatch Front and provides both in-office and mobile fingerprinting services.
They currently operate two locations:
American Fork Office
306 West Main Street, Utah
Taylorsville Office
5204 South Redwood Road, Utah
Appointments can be scheduled online, but walk-ins are also accepted depending on availability.
Services Commonly Offered
Professional fingerprint providers typically offer more than just fingerprint capture. Additional services may include:
- Electronic Live Scan fingerprinting
- FBI background check processing
- State and federal fingerprint submissions
- ATF/FFL fingerprinting
- FD-258 fingerprint cards
- Driving privilege card fingerprinting
- Notary services
- Expungement services
- Drug testing
- Sex offender registry checks
- Mobile fingerprinting for organizations
Having multiple services available in one location helps reduce the need to visit multiple offices.
Choosing the Right Fingerprinting Location
When deciding where to go, consider a few important factors.
Type of Fingerprinting Required
Some applications require Live Scan electronic fingerprints, while others require ink fingerprint cards.
Live Scan is commonly used for:
- Employment background checks
- Professional licensing
- FBI background checks
- Driving privilege cards
Ink fingerprint cards are still used for:
- Certain federal applications
- International background checks
- Agencies requesting physical fingerprint cards
Submission Method
Some providers submit fingerprints directly to the FBI or state databases. Others provide the fingerprint card and require you to send it yourself.
Direct electronic submission is usually faster.
Convenience
Also consider:
- Location near your home or workplace
- Business hours
- Walk-in availability
- Typical wait times
What to Bring to Your Fingerprinting Appointment
Before your appointment, make sure you have the required documents.
Required Items
- Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
- Authorization paperwork from the requesting agency
- Any required fingerprint forms
- Payment for service fees
Helpful to Bring
- Confirmation number if you booked online
- Contact information for the requesting agency
Preparing for Your Appointment
To ensure clear fingerprint results:
- Wash and dry your hands before your appointment
- Avoid lotion immediately before fingerprinting
- Arrive a few minutes early for paperwork
Clear fingerprints reduce the chance of rejection and repeat visits.
Common Reasons for Fingerprinting in Utah
People get fingerprinted for many different reasons, including:
- Employment background checks
- Professional licensing (teachers, nurses, real estate agents)
- Driving privilege cards
- Adoption or foster care background checks
- Firearm licensing (ATF/FFL)
- Immigration and visa applications
Each purpose may require a slightly different fingerprint submission process.
Must Read: What is a Fingerprint Background Check?
The Bottom Line
Fingerprinting services across Utah vary in availability, technology, and processing speed. Some locations only provide ink cards, while others offer digital Live Scan fingerprinting with direct submission to government databases.
Before choosing where to go, confirm:
- The type of fingerprinting required
- Whether the provider can submit your fingerprints directly
- Their hours and appointment availability
For many Utah residents, professional fingerprinting providers offer the fastest and most reliable option. With trained technicians, modern equipment, and the ability to submit fingerprints electronically, the process is usually completed quickly and accurately.
