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California Real Estate License Fingerprinting (Out-of-State) – 2026 Complete Guide

Colorado Springs Fingerprinting wrote our first fingerprinting guide for Colorado Real Estate Agents looking to get licensed in California in 2023- California Real Estate Ink Fingerprinting by mail instructions.


If you're applying for a California real estate license from outside the state, you’ll need to complete a fingerprint-based background check before your license can be issued.


This process is required by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) and must be completed correctly to avoid delays.


This guide explains exactly how out-of-state fingerprinting works for California real estate applicants in 2026, using official DRE guidance.



Does California Require Fingerprints for Real Estate Licenses?


Yes. The California Department of Real Estate requires all applicants to submit fingerprints for a background check through:

  • California Department of Justice (DOJ)

  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)


According to the DRE, fingerprints are required before a license can be issued and must be submitted in an approved format.



Live Scan vs Ink Fingerprinting (DRE Rules)


The DRE allows two methods:


Live Scan (California Only)

  • Completed at an authorized California Live Scan provider

  • Fingerprints are submitted electronically

  • Faster processing

Live Scan is only available within California.


Ink Fingerprinting (Out-of-State Applicants)


If you are outside California:

👉 You must submit FD-258 fingerprint cards by mail


According to the DRE:

  • Out-of-state applicants must submit fingerprints directly to the DRE

  • Fingerprint cards are completed at a local law enforcement agency

  • Cards must be mailed with your application and fees


How Out-of-State Fingerprinting Works (Step-by-Step)


Step 1: Apply for Your Real Estate License

Submit your application through the California DRE.

Out-of-state applicants will receive fingerprint instructions and cards with their application materials.


Step 2: Obtain FD-258 Fingerprint Cards

The DRE typically provides fingerprint cards, or you can request them.

👉 The FD-258 is the standard FBI fingerprint card used for background checks.


Step 3: Get Fingerprinted by a Professional

Take your fingerprint card to:

  • Local police department

  • Sheriff’s office

  • Professional fingerprinting provider

The DRE specifically instructs applicants to have fingerprints completed by an authorized agency.


Step 4: Complete All Required Information

Your fingerprint card must include:

  • Full legal name

  • Date of birth

  • Place of birth

  • Physical descriptors

  • Signature

Incomplete or incorrect cards can delay processing.


Step 5: Mail Your Fingerprint Card to the DRE

Submit:

  • Completed FD-258 card

  • License application

  • Required fees

According to the DRE:

  • A $49 fingerprint processing fee is required

  • Cards must be mailed directly to the DRE with your application ()



Important Rules Most Applicants Miss


❗ Live Scan cannot be done out of state

California only accepts Live Scan submissions performed the state.


❗ You must mail physical fingerprint cards

Out-of-state applicants cannot submit fingerprints electronically to California DOJ.


❗ Fingerprints are required before license issuance

Your license will not be issued until fingerprint results are received and cleared.



Processing Time (What to Expect)

  • Live Scan: Typically faster (electronic submission)

  • Ink fingerprinting: Slower due to mailing and manual processing


Because fingerprint cards must be physically processed, delays are more common with out-of-state submissions.



Common Reasons Fingerprints Get Rejected

  • Smudged or faint fingerprints

  • Missing information

  • Incorrect ORI or agency details

  • Damaged fingerprint cards

If your fingerprints are rejected, you will need to resubmit, which delays your license.


Where to Get Fingerprinting Done (Colorado Option)


If you're applying from Colorado, you can complete your fingerprinting locally and mail your card to California.


At Colorado Springs Fingerprinting, we help real estate applicants with:

  • FD-258 fingerprint cards

  • High-quality ink fingerprinting

  • Ensuring all required fields are completed

  • Preparing cards for secure mailing



Watch: Official DRE Licensing Overview


For additional guidance from the DRE:

This includes official information about licensing steps and requirements.



Related Guide (Internal Resource)

If you're applying for other California licenses, read our full guide:



FAQ: California Real Estate Fingerprinting


Do I need fingerprints for a California real estate license?

Yes. All applicants must submit fingerprints for a background check through DOJ and FBI.


Can I do Live Scan outside California?

No. Live Scan must be completed within California.


What if I live out of state?

You must submit FD-258 fingerprint cards by mail.


How much is the fingerprint fee?

The DRE requires a $49 fingerprint processing fee.



Final Thoughts


The California real estate fingerprinting process is straightforward—but only if you follow the correct method:

  • In California → use Live Scan

  • Out of state → mail FD-258 fingerprint cards


Following official DRE instructions ensures your application is processed without unnecessary delays.

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