What If the FBI Was Unable to Process Your Fingerprint?

Q: Why would the FBI be unable to process my fingerprint?

Fingerprints may be rejected due to smudged or unclear prints, worn or damaged ridges, technical scanning issues, or incorrect forms.

Q: Can I resubmit my fingerprints if they are rejected?

Yes, applicants are given a second opportunity to submit fingerprints, ideally with an experienced technician or certified electronic live-scan device.

Q: What happens if my fingerprints are rejected a second time?

The FBI issues a formal rejection letter stating that fingerprints cannot be processed. This letter can be used as valid documentation for background checks or identity verification.

Q: Do I get penalized if my fingerprints cannot be processed?

No, fingerprint rejection is a technical issue, not a reflection of your background, and applicants are not penalized.

Q: How can I improve my chances of successful fingerprint processing?

Hydrate and warm your hands, avoid lotions right before printing, use a trained technician, ensure proper rolling of all ten fingers, and use a clean FD-258 card or high-quality digital capture.

If the FBI rejects a fingerprint submission for an Identity History Summary (rap sheet) check, the applicant will have to be fingerprinted again. This may be for various reasons, such as poor-quality prints, smudging, or an inability to capture enough detail due to worn-out ridges. It could also happen if the scanning machine does not take the right print of your fingers or when the prints don't match any records in the FBI database.

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Globeia

Published on September 17, 2024Last Updated on March 25, 20265 min read

If the fingerprint cannot be processed, the agency will contact you or the organization that submitted the request for a background check. You may have to resubmit your fingerprints using the same method, or you might try another method, such as going digital if you used ink the first time.

To avoid this problem, fingerprinting must be done with clean and dry hands, and the technician must take clear, readable fingerprints. Getting the results this way may take a little longer, but they will be more accurate.

Success Tips To Get Your Fingerprints Accepted

You can follow the following tips to ensure you get your fingerprints right away.

Kindly ensure that your fingerprints are presented on the FD-1164 fingerprint form since the FBI will approve this form on standard white-colored paper stock.
You need to provide a current fingerprint card (one that has yet to be previously processed).
Ensure that important details such as your name, birthdate, and signature are presented on your card of fingerprint.
You need to submit rolled impressions of all 10 fingers and impressions of all 10 fingers taken at one time (these are sometimes referred to as plain or flat impressions).
You should have your fingerprints taken by a fingerprinting technician. You might be able to avail of this service through the local police service. Several accredited agencies are experts in capturing fingerprints and using the latest technology such as Globeia, which reduces the chances of your fingerprints being rejected.
The FBI recommends not using red or purple ink to take your fingerprints. They accept fingerprints taken with ink or via live scan. If your fingerprints are taken via a live scan device, get a hard copy to send in so that the fingerprint card can be mailed to the FBI.
The inability to decipher the fingerprints can lead to straight rejection from the FBI. This may delay processing and could also result in additional fees.

Conclusion

Fingerprints can be rejected for poor image quality. The following may affect the ease of capturing fingerprints: exposure to chemicals, wear, and fingers that are too dry or clean.

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