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California BRN Fingerprinting for Out-of-State Nurses (2026 Official Guide)

Colorado Springs Fingerprinting wrote our first fingerprinting guide for Colorado Nurses looking to get licensed for Out of State Nursing license in California in 2021


If you're applying for a California nursing license from outside the state of Colorado, fingerprinting is one of the most important—and most misunderstood—steps in the process.


The California Board of Registered Nursing requires all applicants to complete a fingerprint-based background check before a license can be issued. (California Board of Registered Nursing)


If you’re not in California, you’ll need to use manual ink fingerprinting (FD-258 card).

This guide walks you through the official process, based on BRN and California Department of Justice requirements, so you can complete it correctly the first time.


Why Fingerprinting Is Required for California Nurses


Fingerprinting is used to conduct a state and federal criminal background check through:

  • California Department of Justice (DOJ)

  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

The DOJ processes fingerprint submissions and returns results directly to the requesting agency (in this case, the BRN). (California DOJ)


Without fingerprint submission:


Live Scan vs. Ink Fingerprinting (What the BRN Says)


The BRN provides two options:


1. Live Scan (Preferred)

  • Must be completed in California only

  • Faster processing (often within weeks)


2. Manual Fingerprint Card (FD-258)

  • Required if you are outside California

  • Used when you cannot access a California Live Scan provider

According to the BRN:

Applicants outside California may use the manual fingerprint method using an FD-258 card. (California Board of Registered Nursing)

FD-258 Fingerprint Card Example


The FD-258 is the standard fingerprint card used for federal and state background checks.


Step-by-Step: California BRN Ink Fingerprinting Instructions


Step 1: Obtain an FD-258 Fingerprint Card

You can request a fingerprint card directly from the BRN or obtain a standard FD-258 card from a fingerprinting provider.



Step 2: Get Fingerprinted by a Qualified Professional

The BRN instructs applicants to contact:

  • Local police departments

  • Sheriff’s offices

  • Authorized fingerprinting providers

Law enforcement or trained personnel should roll the prints to ensure proper submission. (California Board of Registered Nursing)



Step 3: Complete All Required Fields

The BRN requires that all fields on the fingerprint card be completed. (California Board of Registered Nursing)

Make sure your information matches your application exactly, including:

  • Full legal name

  • Date of birth

  • Place of birth

  • Physical descriptors

  • Signature

Errors or missing data can delay processing.



Step 4: Pay the Fingerprint Processing Fee

  • $49 fingerprint processing fee

  • Paid to the California Board of Registered Nursing

This fee covers DOJ and FBI processing. (California Board of Registered Nursing)



Step 5: Mail Your Fingerprint Card Properly



When mailing your fingerprint card:


  • Use a large flat envelope (9” x 12”)

  • Do not fold the card

  • Ensure the card is not damaged in transit

  • The Mail Center next door to Colorado Springs Fingerprinting can ensure your fingerprints re mailed correctly

Damaged or unreadable fingerprint cards may be rejected during processing.

Those ink fingerprinting cards get scanned into a California Livescan device and processed by the California DoJ and the results get sent to the California Board of nursing.



Step 6: Submit to the BRN

Mail your completed fingerprint card along with:

  • Required fees

  • Application materials (if applicable)

The BRN will forward your fingerprints to the DOJ and FBI for processing.



How the Background Check Process Works in California

(DOJ Overview)


According to the California Department of Justice:

  • Fingerprints are compared against criminal history databases

  • If no match is found, results are processed quickly

  • If a match exists, records are reviewed before results are released (California DOJ)

Results are sent directly to the requesting agency (BRN)—not to the applicant.


Processing Time: What to Expect

  • Live Scan (CA only): often processed within days to weeks

  • Ink fingerprinting (FD-258): can take significantly longer

Because hard cards must be physically processed, they introduce additional delays compared to electronic submission.


Common Reasons Fingerprints Are Rejected

The BRN notes that one of the most common issues is:

Other issues include:

  • Missing or incomplete information

  • Incorrect agency identifiers (ORI)

  • Damaged fingerprint cards

If fingerprints are rejected multiple times, additional steps such as a name-based check may be required. (California DOJ)


Important Notes for Out-of-State Applicants


Where to Get Fingerprinting Done

If you're located in or near Colorado, Colorado Springs Fingerprinting provides:

  • FD-258 fingerprint cards

  • Professional ink fingerprinting services

  • Assistance completing required fields accurately

👉book an appointment or walk in at Colorado Springs Fingerprinting

👉Mail your fingerprints next door at our neighbors at The Mail Center


Final Thoughts From Colorado Springs Fingerprinting


Fingerprinting is not just a formality—it’s a required step that directly impacts your ability to get licensed in California.


Following the official BRN and DOJ guidance ensures:

  • Faster processing

  • Fewer rejections

  • A smoother licensing timeline


If you’re applying from out of state, taking the time to do this step correctly can save weeks or even months.


References


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