BCIA 8016 – Request for Live Scan Service – General Use

Jurisdiction: Country: United States | Province/State: California

What is a BCIA 8016 – Request for Live Scan Service (General Use)?

This form starts a California fingerprint-based background check. You use it to get fingerprinted by a Live Scan operator. The operator submits your prints electronically to the state, and sometimes the FBI. The results go to the agency that asked for your background check.

Think of it as a cover sheet for your Live Scan. It tells the operator who you are, who asked for the check, what law applies, and where to send results. It also tells the operator which databases to search. The form uses standard fields so results route correctly and on time.

You will hear two terms often with this form. “Contributing agency” means the organization that needs your background check. “Live Scan operator” means the fingerprinting site that scans your prints and sends them.

Who typically uses this form?

People who need background checks for work, licensing, permits, or volunteering in California. The form is widely used by employers, licensing boards, schools, healthcare providers, care facilities, security firms, and many public agencies. It is also used by volunteers who work with children, seniors, or vulnerable adults.

Why would you need this form?

Because a law, regulation, or policy requires a California criminal history check. Many roles also require a federal check. The form tells the operator which checks to run. It also authorizes routing of results to the right agency.

Typical usage scenarios

• Job hires
• License applications
• Volunteer clearance
• Onboarding for regulated programs

For example, you get hired at a school. The school gives you a BCIA 8016 with their codes filled in. You take it to a Live Scan site, get fingerprinted, and give the school the tracking number. The state sends the results back to the school.

You do not send this form to the state yourself. The Live Scan site submits the data. The agency receives your background check directly. You keep your copy with the tracking number for your records.

When Would You Use a BCIA 8016 – Request for Live Scan Service (General Use)?

You use this form when a California agency asks you to complete Live Scan fingerprints. That is common for employment in education, healthcare, public service, and security roles. It is also common for license and permit applicants in regulated fields. Many volunteer roles also require it.

Consider a few real situations. You accept a job offer at a hospital. The hospital needs a criminal history check before you start. They give you a BCIA 8016 with their agency codes. You schedule a Live Scan, bring the form and your ID, and get fingerprinted.

Or you apply for a professional license that requires a background check. The licensing board provides a BCIA 8016. You follow the same process. The board receives your results and continues processing your application.

If you volunteer to coach youth sports, the sponsoring organization may require Live Scan. The group issues a BCIA 8016 marked “Volunteer.” You take it to a Live Scan site. The site collects only the rolling fee if the agency is billed for state and federal fees. If not, you pay those fees at the site.

Landlords typically do not use this form. Private tenant screening is separate. This form is meant for government-authorized background checks. It relies on agency codes that private parties cannot create or guess.

You also use this form when a government program needs your prints for clearance. For example, you work in a care facility that requires state and federal criminal checks. The facility’s HR gives you a completed agency section. You provide your personal details and scan your fingerprints.

If you are not sure whether you need the form, ask the requesting agency. Do not self-select fields on this form for a different purpose. The top section must match the agency’s exact request.

Legal Characteristics of the BCIA 8016 – Request for Live Scan Service (General Use)

This form is not a contract between you and the agency. It does not create employment or grant a license. It is an administrative request. It authorizes a fingerprint-based background check under state and, when marked, federal law.

What makes it “binding” is the legal authority behind the background check. Many statutes require criminal history checks for certain roles. Agencies use this form to collect the data needed to run those checks. When you present valid ID and get fingerprinted, you consent to that process.

Enforceability comes from several controls built into the form. The agency provides a unique ORI code and related identifiers. Those codes tell the system where to send results. The “Authorized Applicant Type” field ties the request to a legal program or requirement. The “Level of Service” boxes indicate which databases to search. The Live Scan system rejects incomplete or invalid submissions. This reduces misrouting and unauthorized checks.

The form also helps protect your privacy. It routes results only to the authorized agency. The Live Scan operator verifies your identity and uses secure transmission. You do not get the results unless the program allows it. If you want to review your own record, that is a different request process.

You have rights in this process. If a decision relies on criminal history, you may have a right to notice. You may have a way to challenge incorrect records. Those steps depend on the program. Always keep your tracking number. It helps you and the agency follow up if there is a delay.

You can refuse to complete the form or Live Scan. But refusal usually delays or ends the job, license, or clearance. Agencies cannot complete required checks without your fingerprints. Many roles cannot start until results are received.

Finally, do not alter the agency section yourself. The agency is responsible for that data. Wrong codes can send results to the wrong place. That risks delay or disclosure to an unauthorized recipient. Use the exact form the agency gives you.

How to Fill Out a BCIA 8016 – Request for Live Scan Service (General Use)

Start by confirming who you are in this process.

• If you are the applicant, you complete only the personal information section. The agency fills out the top section before giving you the form. The Live Scan operator completes the bottom section after your prints are taken.

Check that you have the correct version of the form.

• It should say “Request for Live Scan Service (General Use).” It should not be labeled for a special program unless your agency told you to use that version. If the agency sent a pre-filled form, use that exact copy.

Review the top section for completeness.

• The top section is the “Contributing Agency” area. It includes the ORI code, mail code, billing number, authorized applicant type, and related fields. These fields guide routing and billing. You should not change them. If anything is blank, ask the agency to correct it.

Understand the key routing fields.

• The ORI code identifies the requesting agency. The mail code is a five-digit number assigned to that agency. The authorized applicant type describes the legal basis for the check. The “Type of Application” indicates whether this is employment, certification, permit, or volunteer. The “Job Title or Type of License” field further clarifies the purpose. These fields are crucial. Errors here can cause long delays.

Next, find the “Level of Service” boxes.

• The agency checks “DOJ,” “FBI,” or both. This tells the operator which criminal databases to search. If the FBI box is checked, a federal check is included. If only DOJ is checked, the search is statewide only. Do not change these boxes. If they seem wrong, confirm with the agency before your appointment.

Look for the billing instructions.

• Some agencies provide a billing number. That means the agency pays state and federal background fees. You may still pay a rolling fee to the operator. Other agencies do not use billing. In that case, you pay all fees at the Live Scan site. Bring a payment method the site accepts. Fees vary by site and service level.

Now complete your applicant information.

• Enter your full legal name as it appears on your valid photo ID. Include first, middle, and last names. Include any suffix. Enter any other names used, such as maiden or previous names. Use the “AKA” field if present. The matches use names, dates of birth, and fingerprints. Accurate names reduce false matches.

Enter your date of birth, sex, height, and weight.

• Use feet and inches for height, and pounds for weight. Enter your eye and hair color. The operator can convert these to standard codes. Enter your place of birth. Use state for domestic births, or country for foreign births.

Enter your driver’s license or ID number.

• A state ID or driver’s license is typical. Enter your Social Security number if the form requests it. This is often optional but helps resolve identity matches. If you choose not to include it, be aware that processing might take longer in rare cases.

Provide your residence address.

• Use a current address where you can receive mail from the agency if needed. Include apartment or unit numbers. Include your phone number or email if the form requests it. Some agencies use this to contact you if prints are rejected.

Check your entries against your ID.

• Names and dates must match. Live Scan operators will validate your ID. They will not accept expired or unreadable IDs. If your ID is expired, bring acceptable secondary identification per site rules. Call the site if you have questions.

Do not fill out the operator section.

• That area is for the Live Scan site. It includes the ATI number, the date of transmission, and operator information. The operator also records the rolling fee and total fees collected if applicable. They may stamp or sign their section when complete.

Make or print the required copies.

• The form is commonly used in triplicate. One copy is for the requesting agency. One copy is for the Live Scan operator. One copy is for you. If you were sent a single PDF, print three copies. Some sites print copies for you, but bring your set to avoid delays.

Schedule your Live Scan.

• Many sites take walk-ins, but appointments save time. Bring your completed form, your valid ID, and payment. Arrive early. Ask about accepted payment methods. Some sites do not accept cash. Others do not accept credit cards. Policies vary.

At the appointment, present your form and ID.

• The operator will verify your identity and review the form. They will confirm routing fields and level of service. They will collect any required fees. Then they will scan your fingerprints. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

If the operator cannot capture clear prints, do not worry.

• They will try multiple times. If your prints are too worn, the system will still submit a best-effort set. The agency will receive either results or a notice of rejection. If rejected, you may be asked to rescan at no charge.

After transmission, the operator gives you your copy.

• It will show the ATI number. This is a unique tracking number assigned to your transaction. Write it down and keep it. The requesting agency may ask for it. It helps track results and confirm submission.

What happens next?

• The state processes your prints. If the FBI box was checked, a federal search runs too. Results are sent to the requesting agency electronically. Some agencies also receive a mailed letter. Processing times vary by workload and by whether the FBI is included.
• You do not receive the results directly. If you need confirmation, contact the agency that requested the check. Give them your ATI number and the date of your Live Scan. If results are delayed, the ATI helps support follow-up.
• If you spot an error after submission, act fast. Contact the requesting agency. Ask if a correction is needed. Some errors require a new form and re-scan. Others can be handled by the agency. Do not submit a second Live Scan without instructions. Duplicate submissions can create confusion.
• Keep your applicant copy for your records. Store it until your hiring, license, or clearance is complete. If you change jobs or roles, do not reuse this form. Background checks are tied to specific agencies and purposes. Each new request requires a new form with new codes.

Common mistakes cause major delays

• The first is using the wrong ORI or mail code. That can send results to the wrong place.
• The second is checking the wrong level of service. That can trigger a rejection because the agency did not receive a required FBI result. Avoid both by using the exact form from your agency.
• Another common issue is name mismatch. Use the name on your ID. If you recently changed your name, bring supporting documents. List former names in the “AKA” section. This helps match records correctly.

If your agency gave you a billing number, you likely pay only the rolling fee. If no billing number is present, you pay state and federal fees at the site. Fees vary by program. Be ready to pay at the appointment if needed.

Not every program allows you to get a copy of your results. If you want to see your own record, use the proper request type for personal review. That is a separate process with different routing. Do not alter the general use form to try to receive your results directly.

If your prints were rejected for quality, follow the resubmission steps. Bring the rejection notice if you receive one. The operator may reprint at no cost within a set time. Ask your agency about time limits for reprints. Do not wait if you get a rejection.

In summary, your process is straightforward. Get the correct form from your agency. Confirm the agency section is complete. Fill your personal section carefully. Bring valid ID and payment. Complete your Live Scan. Keep your ATI number. Follow up with your agency as needed. This keeps your background check moving without surprises.

Legal Terms You Might Encounter (BCIA 8016 – Request for Live Scan Service)

• ORI (Originating Agency Identifier). This code tells the fingerprint system where to send results. It links your Live Scan to the correct agency. On BCIA 8016, the requesting agency provides the ORI. Do not guess or change it. An incorrect ORI can send your results to the wrong place and delay your clearance.
• Requesting Agency. This is the organization asking for your background check. It could be an employer, a licensing board, or a public entity. On BCIA 8016, their name, address, and contact details appear in the top section. They also specify why the check is needed and what service levels apply. You return their designated copy after your scan if they ask for it.
• Level of Service. This tells the operator which databases to check. Common levels are state-only, federal-only, or both. On BCIA 8016, the agency marks the boxes for the required level. Do not change these. Service level affects fees, processing time, and who receives the results.
• Type of Application. This is the reason for the background check. Examples include employment, licensing, certification, or volunteer work. On BCIA 8016, the agency lists the job title or license type. This context determines which statutes apply to your check. Make sure it matches your role, or results may not satisfy the agency’s need.
• Mail Code or Agency Billing Number. Agencies use these identifiers to manage billing. On BCIA 8016, the requesting agency may enter a Mail Code or billing number. This can affect who pays the background fee. You still may owe a rolling fee to the Live Scan site. If this field is empty, be ready to pay all costs at the site.
• OCA Number (Agency Use). This is a tracking number the agency assigns. It can be a case number, employee ID, or file reference. On BCIA 8016, it helps the agency match results with your application. If the agency gives you an OCA, write it exactly as provided.
• ATI Number (Applicant Transaction Identifier). This receipt number is created after your fingerprints are taken. It tracks your submission. The Live Scan operator gives it to you. Keep it with your records. On BCIA 8016, you may write it on your copy after the appointment. Use it if the agency asks for proof you were scanned.
• Live Scan Operator. This is the trained technician who captures your fingerprints and transmits them. They confirm your identity, collect fees, and complete their section of the form. On BCIA 8016, they fill the operator area and issue your receipt with the ATI number. They do not decide what fields your agency requires.
• Rolling Fee. This is the fee the Live Scan site charges to capture and submit prints. It is separate from the government background fees. Different sites set different rolling fees. BCIA 8016 does not show this amount. Ask the site before you go and bring an accepted payment method.
• Custodian of Records. This person or unit at the requesting agency is authorized to receive and review background results. On BCIA 8016, their role is implied by the agency information. You do not name them on the form. They handle results and notify you of any issues, not the Live Scan site.

FAQs

Do you need an appointment for Live Scan with BCIA 8016?

Most sites prefer or require appointments. Walk-ins are not guaranteed. Check hours, accepted payment types, and ID requirements before you go. Bring the completed BCIA 8016, your valid photo ID, and payment. Arrive a few minutes early. If you miss your slot, you may wait or reschedule. Plan for a 15–30 minute visit. Ask about turnaround expectations, but remember the agency, not the site, receives results.

Do you get a copy of your background results?

No. Results go directly to the requesting agency listed on BCIA 8016. You receive a receipt with the ATI number, not the report. If you need confirmation, give your ATI number to the agency. If you need your own record review, that is a different process. The Live Scan site cannot print or disclose results to you.

Do you have to redo Live Scan if you already did it for another job or license?

Yes, usually. Live Scan results are tied to a specific ORI and purpose. Agencies cannot use results sent to a different ORI. Even if your prior check was recent, you will likely need a new BCIA 8016 and a new submission. Ask the requesting agency if any prior results apply. Most will require a new scan for their records.

Do you pay all fees at the Live Scan site?

Often, yes. You typically pay the rolling fee at the site. You may also pay government fees unless the agency bills them. If the BCIA 8016 shows a Mail Code or billing number, the agency may cover the background fee. Bring payment for the rolling fee regardless. Payment methods vary by site. Confirm if they accept cards, cash, or money orders.

Do you need to list your Social Security Number on BCIA 8016?

Only if the requesting agency asks for it. Many agencies leave it optional. It can help match records, but it is not always required. If you provide it, write it clearly and keep your copy secure. If you do not provide it, bring extra ID so the operator can verify your identity without delay.

Do you need to sign BCIA 8016 before arriving?

You can complete your parts in advance. Sign where the form instructs. Some sites prefer you sign in front of the operator. If you are unsure, leave the signature blank until your appointment. Do not sign for the operator or alter agency sections. If you make a mistake on your copy, ask for a reprint or a fresh form.

Do you get notified if prints are rejected?

Usually, yes. Either the agency or the operator will contact you. Rejections happen due to unreadable prints or data mismatches. The operator may resubmit electronically or ask you to return. Government fees may be waived for resubmissions within a set period, but the rolling fee can still apply. Keep your ATI number and receipt to speed the process.

Do you need a specific ID for Live Scan?

Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID. A driver’s license or passport is standard. The name on your ID should match BCIA 8016. If your name has changed, bring supporting documents. Some sites accept secondary IDs if your primary is expired. Confirm ID rules before your appointment to avoid delays.

Checklist: Before, During, and After the BCIA 8016

Before your appointment

• Get the BCIA 8016 from the requesting agency. Use the General Use version they provide.
• Confirm the ORI, agency name, address, and contact person.
• Verify the Level of Service boxes. Do not change them yourself.
• Ask if there is a Mail Code, billing number, or OCA number.
• Confirm the job title or license type on the form.
• Ask who pays government fees and who pays the rolling fee.
• Book an appointment at a Live Scan site and confirm payment types.
• Gather a valid photo ID. Bring a backup ID if your name changed.
• Complete your applicant fields clearly. Use your full legal name.
• Bring the completed form and any agency instructions.
• Prepare funds for the rolling fee and any additional fees.
• If required, bring any supporting documents for identity verification.

During your appointment

• Check that the agency information on BCIA 8016 is complete.
• Confirm your name matches your ID exactly.
• Verify your date of birth, sex, height, weight, and eye and hair color.
• Confirm your place of birth and address, if listed.
• Enter your driver’s license or ID number exactly as shown on your ID.
• Add the OCA number if provided by the agency.
• Do not alter the ORI, Level of Service, or billing fields.
• Ask the operator to confirm successful transmission before you leave.
• Sign the applicant section as directed. Do not sign for the operator.
• Review the operator’s section for accuracy, if visible.
• Keep your receipt and ATI number. Write it on your copy of BCIA 8016.

After your appointment

• Give the agency their designated copy if they instruct you to.
• Retain your Applicant Copy, the receipt, and the ATI number.
• Note the date of submission and the site’s contact info.
• Tell the agency you completed Live Scan and provide the ATI if asked.
• Store your copy securely. It contains personal information.
• Watch for agency notices about results, clearance, or resubmission.
• If you hear nothing after a reasonable time, follow up with the agency.
• If prints were rejected, reschedule promptly and bring your receipt.
• Do not share your form or ATI publicly. Treat it as confidential.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t forget to verify the ORI. A wrong ORI sends results to the wrong place. That leads to delays and repeat scans.
• Don’t change the Level of Service yourself. Selecting the wrong level triggers wrong fees and incomplete checks. Your agency may reject the results.
• Don’t use a nickname or shortened name. If your name does not match your ID, the operator may refuse to proceed. Mismatches cause identity verification issues.
• Don’t assume the agency pays all fees. If no billing number appears, you likely pay. You may have to return if you arrive without an accepted payment method.
• Don’t leave without your ATI number. Without it, you cannot confirm submission. Tracking a problem becomes harder and slower.

What to Do After Filling Out the Form

1. Schedule your Live Scan if you have not already. Bring BCIA 8016, your ID, and payment. Confirm the site’s hours and location to avoid missed appointments.
2. At the appointment, let the operator capture and submit prints. Review your details on the form. Sign where instructed. Ask for your receipt and ATI number.
3. After submission, give the requesting agency their copy if they want it. Tell them you completed Live Scan and provide the ATI if asked. Keep your Applicant Copy and receipt in a secure place.
4. If you need to correct data after submission, contact the requesting agency. You may need a new BCIA 8016 and a new submission. Operators cannot edit a transmitted record.
5. Track your status with the agency. Response times vary by workload and service level. If prints are rejected, follow resubmission instructions quickly. Bring your prior receipt. Ask if any fees are waived for resubmission.
6. If you change jobs or roles, ask for a new BCIA 8016. Results do not transfer across agencies or ORIs. New roles often need a new check, even if recent.
7. When you finish the process, store your copy of BCIA 8016, the receipt, and any agency clearance. Keep them for your records for the period your agency recommends.