Fingerprint Clearance Card
About Fingerprint Clearance
Our mission is to protect Arizona’s vulnerable populations by determining the suitability of clearance card applicants to provide services to the state of Arizona and its citizens.
Use the link button below to go to the Public Services Portal for Card Applications, Replacement Requests and Status Checks.
For Technical Support on the Public Services Portal (PSP) for Fingerprints, Licensing, or Records, please contact them at (602) 223-2999 and select option 8 OR email them at [email protected]
Email:
Phone/Fax:
(602) 223-2279
(602) 223-2947 - fax
Mailing Address:
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Clearance Card Section
P. O. Box 18390
Phoenix, AZ 85005-8390,
Physical Address:
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Public Service Center
2222 W. Encanto Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85009
Arizona Revised Statutes require many professions to have an active fingerprint clearance card prior to or as a condition of licensure, certification, or employment. The Clearance Card Section (CCS) at the Arizona Department of Public Safety, receives applications and reviews criminal history records of applicants to determine their suitability to receive a fingerprint clearance card, and periodically updates the status of current fingerprint clearance cards. Your licensing, certifying, or authorizing agency, board, or employer (sponsor) can advise if you need a fingerprint clearance card, and which Statute provides the reason for the requirement. You may add or change your sponsoring agency in your account at any time during the six (6) years your card is valid by editing your card on the Public Services Portal or by emailing the Clearance Card Section at [email protected].
Applicants can utilize the Public Services Portal (PSP) to apply for a Fingerprint Clearance Card (FCC). Users will be prompted to create a secure account on the PSP, allowing them to receive timely communications and to check the status of the application.
The PSP will allow applicants the ability to fill out and submit an FCC application online and pay the associated fees directly to the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) via a secure credit card checkout. FCC holders will also be able to order and pay for a replacement FCC directly on the PSP. The PSP will walk the applicant through the application process to ensure all required information is captured before the application is sent to AZDPS.
Once the application is submitted via the PSP, applicants will be provided with a Reference Number for use when getting fingerprinted. They will receive a message in their PSP message center providing two options: to be printed electronically or to use paper fingerprint cards.
Electronic:
- If the applicant chooses to submit prints electronically, they will need to follow the instructions in that message for electronic fingerprinting. For additional help/information regarding this option, please view the reference guides towards the bottom of this page and select the guide "I am having trouble scheduling with Fieldprint/What is my Fieldprint code?"
Paper:
- If the applicant chooses to submit prints via a paper fingerprint card, they will need to arrange for their prints to be taken by a third party fingerprinting service or by a local law enforcement office. Locations can be found by searching online; DPS cannot provide a list of vendors. DPS does NOT provide fingerprinting services. Once the prints are taken on a fingerprint card, they can be mailed to the Clearance Card Section (see mailing address in the Contact Us tab) or they can be dropped off a the Public Services Center at Window 10 (see physical address in the Contact Us tab). Please note, dropping off prints in person is only an option for Non-IVP clearance card applications. See more details for IVP applications in the bullet point below. Once AZDPS receives the print cards or electronic prints, the fingerprints will be processed for review. It is imperative that the Reference Number be included with the fingerprint card. You can write the Reference Number on the paper card in the box labeled MISCELLANEOUS NO.
- Applicants applying for Identity Verified Prints (IVP) cards who choose to submit their fingerprints via paper fingerprint card, will need to request the blue postage-paid return envelope with affidavit and fingerprint cards. In the PSP message center, compose and send a message (please include your IVP number and mailing address) requesting the IVP packet. Once your prints have been taken on the provided cards, the technician who took the prints must close the prints and the completed affidavit in the blue envelope and they must mail it back to DPS.
- Applicants renewing a valid IVP will be able to do so entirely on the PSP.
- Applicants with existing cards will be able to create an account and link their existing cards to their accounts.
Where is the Clearance Card Section located?
The Clearance Card Section (CCS) is located in the DPS Public Service Center at 2222 W. Encanto Blvd. Phoenix, AZ 85009,.
What is the difference between a Non-IVP and an IVP application?
The only difference is the process used when your fingerprints are taken.
Once an applicant’s fingerprints have been taken for a Non-IVP paper application the technician is able to return the completed fingerprint card to the applicant for delivery to DPS, along with the application and fee for processing.
For an IVP paper application, the statutes on the application require the submission of “Identity Verified Prints” (IVP) pursuant to ARS § 15-106. The process requires the fingerprint technician to send the fingerprint card directly to DPS, along with the application and fee, in the provided blue DPS return envelope.
The same background check is done for both the Non-IVP and IVP applications.
What is the difference between a Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card and a Regular Fingerprint Clearance Card?
There are some offenses listed in ARS § 41-1758.07(B) that preclude a Level One (IVP or non-IVP) Card from being issued but would allow a Regular (IVP or non-IVP) Card to be issued under ARS § 41-1758.03.
How do I know if I need to submit a Non-IVP or an IVP application?
Ask the employer or agency that requires you to obtain the card if you have questions about which card type you need.
What is a "Driving Restricted" Fingerprint Clearance Card?
Pursuant to ARS §§ 41-1758.03(D) and 41-1758.07(D), or ARS § 41-1758.04(D), DPS is required to issue either a Regular or Level One Driving Restricted Fingerprint Clearance Card.
Both ARS §§ 41-1758.03(D) and 41-1758.07(D) state in part:
A person who is awaiting trial on or who has been convicted of committing or attempting to commit a misdemeanor violation of ARS §§ 28-1381, 28-1382 or 28-1383 in this state or the same or a similar offense in another state or jurisdiction within five years from the date of applying for a … Fingerprint Clearance Card is precluded from driving any vehicle to transport employees or clients of the employing agency as part of the person's employment. Statutes mandate a notation be placed on the Fingerprint Clearance Card that indicates this driving restriction. This does not preclude a person from driving a vehicle alone as part of the person's employment.
How do I apply for a Fingerprint Clearance Card?
There are two ways to apply:
1. Submit an Electronic Application - Non-IVP or IVP:
To apply electronically, click here to navigate to the PSP. Then, click the "Fingerprint Clearance Card" tile and then the "Apply for a Card" box.
· NOTE: If you need to submit an IVP Renewal Application, you can still apply electronically. On the "Reasons" page, be sure you select one of the two IVP Renewal Options on the dropdown menu. In lieu of setting up an appointment to be fingerprinted, you will be required to provide the IVP # that is on the front of your current card.
2. Submit a Paper Application - Non-IVP or IVP:
· To obtain a paper application, for a Non-IVP card, click HERE, select the option to apply for a new card, and then click Non-IVP for the printable pdf. For a paper application for an IVP card, please email [email protected] and request the IVP application. Please include your full name and mailing address.
· You may be able to obtain a paper application from your employer or agency.
What is the fee to apply for a Fingerprint Clearance card and what forms of payment are accepted?
Paper Application - Non-IVP or IVP:
· The DPS fee* is currently $67.00**, except for volunteers. The fee for volunteers is $65.00**.
· DPS can only accept the following forms of payment, made payable to the Arizona Department of Public Safety:
· Cashier's Check
· Money Order
· Business check with pre-printed business address
· State agencies may also elect to submit a State Companion Action Transfer form for paper application processing.
· Depending on where you have your fingerprints taken, there may be an additional fee for service, which is not controlled by DPS.
*The DPS fee is used to process the application regardless of the final result, approval, or denial of a Fingerprint Clearance Card.
**The DPS fee is subject to change at any time and is non-refundable, pursuant to ARS § 41-1750(J).
Electronic Application - Non-IVP or IVP:
· The DPS fee* is currently $67.00**, except for volunteers. The fee for volunteers is $65.00**.
· A credit card fee will be charged with the application fee when applying online and paying by credit card.
· There is an additional vendor fee for electronic fingerprints. Please contact the vendor for more fee information.
· The electronic application processing fee may be paid online when you apply with either a credit or debit card.
· State agencies and employers may establish an account for direct billing with the DPS vendor for the electronic application process and will provide the applicant with a funding code to use online.
*The DPS fee is used to process the application regardless of the final result, approval or denial of a Fingerprint Clearance Card.
**The DPS fee is subject to change at any time and is non-refundable, pursuant to ARS § 41-1750(J).
Can I go to DPS to be fingerprinted for a Fingerprint Clearance Card?
No. DPS does not provide fingerprinting for the public for this purpose. For fingerprinting services, it is recommended that you contact your local police department or a professional fingerprinting service.
What will my fingerprints be used for?
Your fingerprints will be used to check the criminal history records of the state of Arizona and of the FBI. DPS and the FBI may retain your fingerprints and associated information after the completion of this application and, while retained, your fingerprints may continue to be compared against other fingerprints, including latent fingerprints submitted to or retained by DPS and the FBI.
If you have a criminal history record, the officials making the determination of your suitability for the job, license, or other benefit must provide you the opportunity to complete or challenge the accuracy of the information in the record. You should be afforded a reasonable amount of time to correct or complete the record (or decline to do so) before officials deny you the job, license, or other benefit based on information in the criminal history record.
The procedures for obtaining a change, correction, or updating of your FBI criminal history record are set forth in Title 28, Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Sections 16.30 through 16.34. Information on how to review and challenge your FBI criminal history record can be found at www.fbi.gov, under Criminal History Summary Checks, or by calling (304) 625-5590.
To obtain a copy of your Arizona criminal history record to review, update or correct, you can contact the Arizona Department of Public Safety Central State Repository at (602) 223-2222 or visit here to request a Review and Challenge.
Can DPS tell me if I qualify for a Fingerprint Clearance Card before I apply?
No. DPS cannot pre-screen an applicant. DPS cannot determine if an applicant is eligible for a Fingerprint Clearance Card until the fingerprint-based state and federal background results are received and reviewed.
Where can I find out what offenses could keep me from obtaining a Fingerprint Clearance Card?
Precluding offenses for a Level I Fingerprint Clearance Card are listed in ARS § 41-1758.07 subsections B and C.
· Precluding offenses for a Regular Fingerprint Clearance Card are listed ARS § 41-1758.03 subsections B and C.
Can you send me and/or my employer an email or fax stating my application is in process or that my card is valid?
DPS cannot send an email or fax to an employer regarding the status of an application or to verify a clearance card is valid. The employer will need to use the option noted under the FAQ "How and when can I check the status of an application or check to see if a Fingerprint Clearance Card is valid?".
If you provided a valid email address when you submitted your application, you will receive an email once your application is entered into the DPS database, advising you that your application is in process. DPS cannot send a fax with this information. If you did not provide an email address, you will need to use the option noted above to check the status of your application or to verify that your card is valid.
How and when can I check the status of an application or check to see if a Fingerprint Clearance Card is valid?
How:
· You can check the status of an electronic or paper application (you will need your application or card number) online: Fingerprint Clearance Card/Application Status
When:
The status of a paper application will not be available online until it has been entered into the DPS database. How long before it is entered will vary daily based on mail transport time and the volume of applications received by DPS. No specific time frame can be provided.
For electronic applications, allow approximately 24-48 hours (could possibly take longer) after you have been fingerprinted for the status to be available online.
After I apply, if my mailing address changes, should I notify DPS?
Yes. The only way DPS will know if your address changes is if you contact DPS directly. It is imperative you contact DPS with your current address to ensure you receive any correspondence concerning your application.
As an employer, if an employee provides a photocopy of a Fingerprint Clearance Card or the actual card itself, is that proof that it is a valid card?
No. A photocopy of a Fingerprint Clearance Card or the Card itself is not proof that it is a valid card. As an employer, you will need to either check the status online or contact DPS (see FAQ "How and when can I check the status of an application or check to see if a Fingerprint Clearance Card is valid?") to determine if the person has a valid card.
If the person has lost their Fingerprint Clearance Card, they should request a replacement (see FAQ “HOW MAY I OBTAIN A REPLACEMENT OF MY FINGERPRINT CLEARANCE CARD IF IT IS LOST, STOLEN OR MY NAME CHANGES?”).
How may I obtain a replacement of my Fingerprint Clearance Card if it is lost, stolen or my name changes?
You will need to submit a Fingerprint Clearance Card Replacement Request form. The form may be submitted by one of these two ways:
Online - A replacement can be obtained online on our Public Services Portal linked below.
· By Paper - Click the card replacement form linked above to download and print the form. Fill it out completely and return it using one of the options described on the form. If mailing it back, ensure to include the $5.00 fee in the form of a cashier’s check, money order or check drawn on a business account.
How long is a Fingerprint Clearance Card valid for?
A Fingerprint Clearance Card is valid for six (6) years.
How long before my card expires should I send in a renewal application?
DPS recommends renewal application be submitted approximately three months prior to the current card expiration. This will allow for adequate processing time as well as any issues or concerns that may arise in the process.
If I currently have an IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card, when do I need to send in a renewal application? Will I have to submit Fingerprints again?
If the front of your card contains an IVP #, you do not have to submit fingerprints with your renewal application. DPS has your fingerprints stored electronically. Be sure to note the IVP# that is on your card in the space provided on the paper application form or on the electronic form. Without this information, your application cannot be processed. Please note: it may be possible the FBI will reject the fingerprints DPS has on file due to the quality, so you may have to be reprinted for the FBI.
If I receive a notice of denial from DPS, is there any way I can ever be issued a Fingerprint Clearance Card?
Depending on the offense or offenses for which you were denied, you MAY be eligible to pursue a good cause exception through the Arizona Board of Fingerprinting. The Board of Fingerprinting is a separate state agency from DPS. Therefore, DPS is not authorized to respond to any questions you may have regarding the good cause exception process. The Board of Fingerprinting’s contact information will be included in the DPS denial notice. For more information regarding the Arizona Board of Fingerprinting, please visit their website.
If my fingerprint Clearance Card is suspended, can it ever be reactivated?
Information on how a Fingerprint Clearance Card can be reactivated is provided in the DPS suspension notice that is sent when the card is suspended.
If I lost or never received my denial or suspension letter, can I get a copy?
Yes. Email the Clearance Card Section at [email protected] (be sure to provide your full name, application number, and date of birth). A copy of the letter will be mailed to you via US Mail. Due to the confidential criminal history information contained in the letter, it cannot be faxed or sent via email.
Can the DPS Clearance Card Section provide a blank Fingerprint Card for any reason other than Fingerprint Clearance Card application purposes?
No. The DPS Clearance Card Section does not provide blank applicant fingerprint cards for any other purpose than applications. You can contact the FBI to see if they can provide them to you or find a vendor that carries Applicant FD-258 Fingerprint Cards.