📄 What Is Ink & Roll Fingerprinting — And When Do You Need It?
Ink & roll fingerprinting is the traditional method of capturing fingerprints using black ink and a fingerprint card. Unlike digital fingerprinting, which is electronically scanned and submitted, ink & roll prints are physically rolled onto a card—usually an FD-258—and often mailed to government agencies.
So, when is ink & roll fingerprinting required?
🔹 Out-of-state licensing – Many licensing boards (like nursing, legal, or real estate boards) outside your state still require traditional fingerprint cards.
🔹 Federal background checks – Agencies like the FBI or FDLE may ask for ink fingerprint cards for identity history summaries.
🔹 Immigration or visa processing – Some embassies and consulates require ink fingerprints for background verification.
🔹 Adoption or international travel – Whether adopting domestically or internationally, fingerprint cards are often part of the screening process.
🔹 Employment in sensitive industries – Some government jobs, security clearances, or financial institutions may require physical fingerprint cards for records.
At Top Tier Notary Services, we offer professional ink & roll fingerprinting that meets all federal and state standards.