Live Scan ATI Number is a ten-digit code printed on the bottom edge of your Live Scan applicant request form. This number acts like a tracking ID for your fingerprint background check in California. Without it, you cannot check your status online or by phone. The ATI starts with one letter followed by nine numbers, such as A123456789. It links your fingerprints to your personal record at the Department of Justice (DOJ). Keeping this number safe is critical—losing it can delay your background check by weeks.
What Is a Live Scan ATI Number?
A Live Scan ATI Number is your unique transaction identifier. After you complete your fingerprint scan at an approved location, the machine prints a receipt that includes this code. The ATI does not confirm your fingerprints were sent to the DOJ—it only marks the start of your case. Once the data uploads, the DOJ uses the ATI to track every step, from image review to final report delivery. Each ATI is used only once per submission. If you need to rescan due to poor image quality, you must reuse the original ATI to avoid creating a duplicate case.
Where to Find Your Live Scan ATI Number
Your ATI appears in two key places. First, it is printed at the bottom right corner of your Live Scan Applicant Request form. Second, it shows on the receipt given to you after scanning. The format is always one letter, then nine digits. For example: B123ABC456 is not correct—the real pattern is simpler, like C987654321. Never guess the number. Copy it exactly as shown. If your form is lost, contact the Live Scan operator where you were scanned. They can reprint your receipt if you provide valid ID and proof of service.
How to Check Your Live Scan Status Using the ATI Number
To track your background check, visit the official DOJ applicant status portal at https://applicantstatus.doj.ca.gov/. On the homepage, enter your full date of birth exactly as it appears on your request form. Then type your ten-digit ATI number. Click submit. The system will show one of several messages: “Received – Under Review,” “Report Generated,” or “Report Sent to Requesting Agency.” It also displays the date your fingerprints were logged and gives an estimated completion window of three to ten business days. Most checks finish in five to eight days unless a name match requires manual review.
Phone and Email Support for ATI Inquiries
If the online portal shows an error or you need help, call the DOJ Live Scan support line at (916) 227-4557. This line operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Have your date of birth and ATI ready. The agent will verify both before sharing your status. For after-hours help, call the 24/7 center at 1-800-710-1934. You can also email support using the protected address on the DOJ website. Responses usually arrive within two business days. Always keep a copy of your ATI in a secure file. Losing it means starting over, which adds weeks to your wait.
Common Mistakes with Live Scan ATI Numbers
Many people enter the wrong ATI when checking status. Common errors include mixing up letters and numbers, typing extra spaces, or using an old number from a previous scan. Another mistake is submitting a new form without the original ATI after a rejection. If your fingerprints fail quality checks, you must reuse the same ATI on your rescan. Creating a new one splits your record and slows processing. Always double-check the number before submitting forms or calling support.
What Happens After You Submit Your Live Scan?
After scanning, your fingerprints are sent electronically to the DOJ. The system checks image quality first. If approved, your prints go into the state database. The DOJ compares them against criminal records and sends results to your requesting agency. This whole process takes three to ten business days. Delays happen if your name matches someone else in the system. In those cases, a human reviewer must confirm your identity, which adds time. You’ll see “Under Review” on the portal during this phase.
How to Correct a Missing or Wrong ATI on Form 41-LS
If your Form 41-LS lacks an ATI, find the original number from your first scan receipt. Copy it exactly into the “Automated Transaction Identifier” field. Never leave it blank. If you’re resubmitting due to poor image quality, the same rule applies—use the original ATI. The DOJ links all parts of your case through this number. Skipping it creates a separate file, which resets your timeline. Contact your Live Scan provider if you can’t locate the number. They can verify it from their records.
Turnaround Times and Processing Delays
Standard Live Scan processing takes five to eight business days. Simple cases may finish in three. Complex ones can take up to ten or more if manual review is needed. Holidays and high volume periods slow things down. The DOJ portal shows an estimated window based on recent averages. If your status hasn’t changed after ten days, call support. Have your ATI and birth date ready. Do not submit duplicate requests—this worsens delays.
Who Requires a Live Scan Background Check?
Many California jobs and licenses need a Live Scan. Teachers, nurses, caregivers, security guards, and real estate agents all require it. State agencies, schools, and healthcare employers request these checks. Some private companies also ask for them. Your employer or licensing board will tell you if you need one. They also provide the correct forms and billing codes. Never use a generic form—each agency has specific requirements.
Live Scan Fees and Payment Methods
The cost of Live Scan varies by agency but is usually $35 to $50 for the DOJ fee, plus a small service charge from the operator. Fees are often included in your job application or license cost. The Agency Billing Number for most state programs is 156751. Payment is made at the time of scanning. Cash, card, and checks are accepted at most locations. Keep your receipt—it proves you paid and includes your ATI.
How to Get a Copy of Your Live Scan Receipt
If you lose your receipt, contact the Live Scan center where you were scanned. Bring valid photo ID and proof of your appointment. Most centers keep records for 90 days. They can reprint your receipt with the ATI. You may also request a copy from the DOJ by calling (916) 227-4557. Provide your name, birth date, and approximate scan date. Processing takes two to three business days.
Understanding Status Messages on the DOJ Portal
The DOJ portal shows clear status updates. “Received – Under Review” means your prints arrived and are being checked. “Report Generated” means your background check is complete. “Report Sent to Requesting Agency” means your employer or licensing board has the results. If you see “Images Not Received,” your scan failed to upload. Contact your operator immediately. Each message includes a date stamp so you know when the last update occurred.
What to Do If Your Live Scan Is Rejected
If your fingerprints are rejected due to smudges, cuts, or dry skin, you must rescan. Return to the same or another approved location. Bring your original request form and receipt. Tell the technician your scan was rejected. They will reuse your original ATI. Do not fill out a new form unless instructed. Rescanning with the same ATI keeps your case active. Starting over adds weeks to your timeline.
Live Scan for Out-of-State Applicants
California accepts Live Scan from any approved location, even outside the state. However, you must use California-specific forms and billing codes. Your employer or licensing agency will provide these. The ATI process works the same way. Once scanned, your data goes to the DOJ. You can check status online using your ATI and birth date. Processing times are identical to in-state scans.
Security and Privacy of Your ATI Number
Your ATI is sensitive information. Never share it publicly or on social media. Store it in a password-protected file or locked drawer. Only give it to authorized agencies or support staff when verifying your identity. The DOJ uses strict security to protect your data. Unauthorized use of an ATI is a crime. Report lost or stolen numbers immediately to prevent fraud.
How Long Is a Live Scan Valid?
A Live Scan report is valid for one year from the date it was generated. After that, you may need a new scan for renewed licenses or job changes. Some agencies accept older reports if no criminal activity occurred. Check with your employer or licensing board. They decide how recent your background check must be. Keep your ATI even after approval—you might need it for future reference.
Live Scan vs. Ink Fingerprint Cards
Live Scan is faster, cleaner, and more accurate than ink cards. It sends data electronically, reducing errors. Ink cards can smudge, fade, or get lost in mail. Most California agencies no longer accept ink submissions. Live Scan also provides an immediate ATI for tracking. Ink cards offer no such feature. Always choose Live Scan unless specifically told otherwise.
How to Prepare for Your Live Scan Appointment
Wash your hands before scanning. Remove lotions, oils, or hand creams. Trim long nails and avoid hand injuries. Bring valid photo ID, your request form, and payment. Arrive on time. The process takes five to ten minutes. After scanning, verify your receipt has the correct name, date, and ATI. Report errors immediately.
Agency Billing Numbers and Their Purpose
Each requesting agency has a unique billing number. For example, the standard state number is 156751. This code tells the DOJ who is paying for the background check. It also links your scan to the correct program. Never change this number. Using the wrong one delays processing. Your employer or licensing board provides the correct code on your request form.
What If My Name or Birth Date Is Wrong on the Form?
If your personal details are incorrect, your scan may be rejected. Contact your requesting agency immediately. They must issue a corrected form. Do not scan with wrong information. Even small errors like a middle initial can cause mismatches. The DOJ compares your data exactly as submitted. Fix mistakes before scanning.
Can I Check Someone Else’s Live Scan Status?
No. Only you or your authorized employer can check your status. The DOJ requires your exact birth date and ATI. Third parties cannot access this information without written permission. If an agency needs updates, they contact the DOJ directly using their own credentials. Never share your ATI with coworkers or friends.
Live Scan for Minors and Minors’ Privacy
Minors can undergo Live Scan with parental consent. Schools, sports programs, and volunteer roles may require it. The process is the same, but forms must be signed by a guardian. The ATI still tracks the case. Results are sent to the requesting organization. Minors’ records are protected under state law. Only authorized entities can view them.
How the DOJ Uses Your Fingerprint Data
The DOJ compares your prints against state and federal criminal databases. They check for matches, arrests, and convictions. Results go to your requesting agency. The DOJ does not share your data with employers directly unless authorized. Your privacy is protected by law. Data is stored securely and deleted after legal retention periods.
Common Reasons for Delayed Live Scan Processing
Delays occur due to name matches, poor image quality, high volume, or holidays. Manual reviews add time. If your status stays “Under Review” beyond ten days, call support. Do not resubmit. Wait for clarification. Patience prevents duplicate cases.
How to Contact the California DOJ for Live Scan Help
Call (916) 227-4557 during business hours. Use 1-800-710-1934 for 24/7 support. Email through the official DOJ website. Have your ATI and birth date ready. Avoid long hold times by using the online portal first.
Live Scan Locations Near You
Find approved centers on the DOJ website or through your employer. Most are in police stations, sheriff offices, or private service providers. Appointments are recommended. Walk-ins may wait longer.
Final Tips for a Smooth Live Scan Experience
Keep your ATI safe. Double-check forms. Arrive prepared. Use the portal to track progress. Call only if needed. Follow all instructions from your agency. Your background check is a key step toward your job or license.
Frequently Asked Questions About Live Scan ATI Numbers
Many people have questions about their ATI number, how to use it, and what to do if something goes wrong. Below are the most common concerns, answered clearly and directly based on official DOJ guidelines and real user experiences.
What happens if I lose my Live Scan ATI number?
If you lose your ATI number, contact the Live Scan center where you were scanned. Bring valid photo ID and proof of your appointment. Most centers keep records for 90 days and can reprint your receipt with the correct ATI. You may also call the DOJ at (916) 227-4557 during business hours. Provide your full name, date of birth, and approximate scan date. They will verify your identity before releasing the number. Never guess or reuse an old ATI—each one is unique to a single transaction. Losing your ATI does not cancel your background check, but you cannot track it online without this code. Keep a digital copy in a secure location, such as an encrypted note or password manager, to avoid future issues.
Can I reuse my ATI number for a new job or license?
No, you cannot reuse an ATI number for a new background check. Each Live Scan submission generates a new ATI tied to that specific request. Even if you’re applying for a different job or license, you must complete a new scan and receive a fresh ATI. The old number only works for the original case it was created for. Reusing it will cause errors or rejection. If you’re switching employers within the same field, ask if your previous report can be transferred—some agencies allow this within one year. But for a new application, always get a new scan and new ATI.
Why does my status say “Under Review” for more than ten days?
If your status remains “Under Review” beyond ten business days, it likely means the DOJ found a name or fingerprint match that requires manual verification. This happens when your prints resemble someone else’s in the database. A trained reviewer must confirm your identity before releasing results. Delays can also occur during holidays, high application volumes, or if your images were low quality and needed rescanning. Do not resubmit your fingerprints—this creates a duplicate case and worsens the delay. Instead, call (916) 227-4557 with your ATI and birth date. The agent can explain the hold and give an updated timeline.
Is my Live Scan ATI number the same as my FBI number?
No, your Live Scan ATI number is not the same as an FBI number. The ATI is a California-specific transaction ID used only to track your state background check with the DOJ. The FBI may assign a separate control number if your fingerprints are sent to the federal level, but this is not provided on your receipt. You cannot use the ATI to check FBI status. For federal background checks, contact the requesting agency directly. The ATI only works with the California DOJ portal and support lines.
Can I check my Live Scan status without the ATI number?
No, you cannot check your Live Scan status without the ATI number. The DOJ portal and phone system both require this ten-digit code along with your exact date of birth. There is no alternative method to look up your case. If you lost the number, follow the steps above to recover it from your Live Scan provider or the DOJ. Never skip this step—without the ATI, your background check cannot be tracked, and resubmitting without it will create a new case, adding weeks to your wait.
What should I do if my employer says they never received my Live Scan report?
First, check your status on the DOJ portal using your ATI. If it shows “Report Sent to Requesting Agency,” the DOJ has delivered it. Contact your employer or licensing board directly—they may have misplaced it or not processed it yet. Provide them with your name, birth date, and ATI for reference. If the portal shows “Report Generated” but not “Sent,” call the DOJ at (916) 227-4557. They can confirm if there was a delivery issue. Do not rescan unless instructed. Most agencies receive reports within one to three business days after generation.
How long does it take to get a Live Scan appointment?
Most Live Scan locations offer appointments within 24 to 48 hours. High-demand areas like Los Angeles or San Diego may have longer waits. Call ahead or book online through certified providers. Walk-ins are accepted at some sheriff offices but may involve longer wait times. Schedule early, especially if your job or license has a deadline. Bring all required documents to avoid rescheduling.
Official Contact Information:
California Department of Justice
Live Scan Support Line: (916) 227-4557
24/7 Call Center: 1-800-710-1934
Website: https://oag.ca.gov/fingerprints
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. PT