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FD-258 Fingerprint Card Explained: What It Is, Who Needs It, and How to Get It Right

Technician assisting client with ink fingerprinting on FD-258 card for FBI background check.
FD-258 fingerprinting near me – Get professional ink card fingerprinting for FBI and out-of-state background checks.

What Is an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?

The FD-258 card is a standardized fingerprint card issued by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It is used by federal and state agencies to collect fingerprints for identity verification, background checks, licensing, and employment screening.

Unlike digital live scan systems, the FD-258 is a physical ink card that captures 10 rolled fingerprints and flat impressions. The card also includes your personal information (name, date of birth, address, SSN, etc.).

What Is the FD-258 Used For?

Completed FD-258 fingerprint card with clear rolled fingerprints for right and left hand.
Looking for FD-258 fingerprint card near you? Our locations in San Jose and Las Vegas offer ink card fingerprinting accepted nationwide.

You may be required to submit an FD-258 fingerprint card in the following situations:

  • FBI Identity History Summary Checks (also called “rap sheets”)
  • Out-of-state employment and licensing (e.g., nursing, real estate, law enforcement)
  • Immigration, visa, and international travel
  • Federal job applications
  • Firearms licensing or ATF NFA tax stamp
  • Adoption (international/domestic)
  • Record expungement or sealing cases

The form is accepted by most federal agencies, embassies, and law enforcement offices. It is required for mail-in submissions to the FBI when electronic fingerprinting is not available or permitted.

Live Scan vs. FD-258 Ink Card

Live Scan fingerprinting is a digital scan that transmits fingerprints electronically—commonly used within California for DOJ background checks.

The FD-258 is required when:

  • You’re applying to an out-of-state agency
  • You need an FBI Identity History Summary
  • You’re submitting documents for international use
  • You need a card that can be mailed or apostilled

FD 258 fingerprint card near locations like police stations may be limited—Fingerscan Digital offers a fast, walk-in alternative.

What’s on the FD-258 Card?

Each card includes the following:

  • Full name and date of birth
  • Gender, race, height, weight
  • Eye and hair color
  • Place of birth
  • ORI number (Originating Agency Identifier)
  • Signature of the person being fingerprinted
  • Signature of the fingerprint technician
  • Boxes for all 10 rolled fingerprints
  • Spaces for flat (plain) fingerprints of each hand

Note: An improperly filled FD-258 card may be rejected by the FBI or your agency. That’s why it’s important to visit an experienced technician.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Smudged or overlapping prints

Wrong ink used (must be fingerprint-quality black ink)

Filling out in pencil or colored ink

Incorrect or missing personal data

Poor ridge detail

Submitting the wrong card format

Where Do I Get the FD-258 Card?

You can download and print it from the FBI website, but we highly recommend having it completed by a professional. Many print-at-home versions are rejected due to:

  • Wrong paper size or weight
  • Incomplete fields
  • Ink smudges

International Use? You May Need Apostille

When submitting an FD-258 card abroad (e.g., for a visa or work permit), it often needs to be:

  • Processed by the FBI for a background check
  • Authenticated or apostilled by the U.S. Department of State

If you need help getting your fingerprint card prepared for international use, a professional service like Fingerscan Digital can assist from start to finish.

Learn More:

If you’re searching for FD-258 fingerprint card near me or need ink card fingerprinting for an FBI background check, immigration, or licensing, we’ve got you covered. At Fingerscan Digital, we provide professional fingerprinting services in both San Jose and Las Vegas, using FD-258 cards that meet FBI and out-of-state agency requirements.

Whether you’re applying for a job, licensing, adoption, or visa, our trained technicians ensure your prints are clean and acceptable. Walk-ins are welcome or you can book online for fast, efficient service. Our ink fingerprinting is accepted for FBI Channeler requests, Department of State apostille authentication, and more.

Need help? Visit our San Jose location or Las Vegas location for FD-258 ink fingerprinting today!

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At FingerScan Digital, we understand the importance of accurate and efficient fingerprinting, especially regarding crucial matters such as FBI background checks, Live Scan, fingerprint cards, and state-specific requirements.

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