Have you applied, or are you applying to a job requiring a NON-IVP or Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance card? Maybe you're unfamiliar as to what it is, the process needed to get one, or are genuinely curious as to what it is. Regardless of the case, here is some information to help you obtain your Card, as well as some frequently asked questions that may answer any questions you may have.
What exactly is a Fingerprint Clearance Card?
In Arizona, there are a vast amount of jobs that require one form or another of a FPCC(Fingerprint Clearance Card), depending on the nature of the job, and the appropriate agency it falls under. Typically, most jobs that fall under the Department of Child Services(DCS), Department of Economic Security(DES) or Department of Health Services(DHS) as well as other Arizona departments, will require a Level 1 FPCC. This card screens for federal criminal history records, and determines whether they are eligible for clearance or not. Here are the specifics. For the most part, any child abuse, neglect, pending crimes, or warrants will usually result in a denial of Fingerprint Clearance Card. These screenings are crucial to ensure the safety and well being of the vulnerable populations that are being served, as each employee is required to obtain one.
Who needs a Fingerprint Clearance Card?
In the State of Arizona, a wide range of professions require a Fingerprint Clearance Card, varying on the position. Such professions can include:
- Direct Care Workers
- Nurses
- Case Managers
- Personal Care Aids
- Teachers
- Caregivers
- Child or Daycare Workers
- Etc.
Again, depending on the nature of business, and the level of care provided, each agency and employer will require a specific subset or type of clearance. It is best advised to reach out to your prospective employer and ask them exactly what is required if they are not sponsoring your fingerprinting or if you are unsure.
Where or how can I get a Fingerprint Clearance Card?
Though the Fingerprint Division of the Department of Public Safety issues these Cards, there are a variety of ways to obtain one. Initially, an application must be submitted to DPS(
Department of Public Safety), this can be done either electronically via the DPS website
(click here) paper application
Click here for a non-IVP Application Form or you can call DPS directly at (602) 223-2000 with any questions you may have. You will also have to to go to an actual physical location to get fingerprinted as part of the FPCC application process. Once the process has been completed, the clerk that did your fingerprinting will provide an application number, which can be presented to your prospective employer to see if you are able to begin employment. Your physical Card will arrive in the mail a few weeks later after your application has been processed.
How long does the fingerprinting process take?
If you decide on going through the
DPS Website you can register your account, input your information, and process the application if you are payment ready.
Do I have to pay or is there a fee to the Card?
DPS charges a $67 to process the application, as well as an $8.25 fee for
Gemalto to do the actual fingerprinting and backgrounding. Consult with your prospective employer if they are willing to sponsor, payroll deduct, or take on the fee themselves.
How long is the Card good for?
An FPCC must be renewed every 6 years. However, upon being charged with a disqualifying offense, your fingerprint clearance card will most likely be suspended, or revoked. Depending on the severity of the offense or crime, you may be ineligible for a card until the pending crime or charge has been resolved. If you are found to be eligible for reinstitution, you may have to wait a certain amount of time, or have to apply for a
Good Cause Exception. Typically, you will have to submit a request of hearing, as well as reference letters, detailing as to why your card should be reinstated, usually signs or proof of self-improvement and rehabilitation may work in your favor to help you get your Card back. There may be restrictions on your card such as a driving restriction that may make you ineligible for certain professions or for employment in general.
Online Application Steps
First, you must go to the DPS website and create an account
(click here). On you have created your account and filled out your information, you must verify your email and login using 2 step verification.
After you have logged into the website, make sure you follow the appropriate steps for whatever card you are needing.
If you're applying to become a Direct Care Worker(DCW) or Caregiver to do in-home care such as RSP(Respite), HAH(Habilitation), ATC(Attendant Care), or even to work in a day program such as a DTA(Day Training Adults) or DTT(Discrete Trial Training) you will have to select "DES-DDD/HCBS-Home and Community Based Services ARS§36-594.01 as the reason why you are being fingerprinted.
You will then be directed to provide the online payment, make sure you are payment ready, as you will not be able to continue with the application without paying.
Once the initial payment has been made to DPS, you will receive an email in your "Message Center" within the DPS website, make sure you open it and take note of your Application Number, this number will be required to continue with the application and finalize the process. You will then be redirected to the
Gemalto Arizona Application Processing website. Make sure to click on the "Click Here if..." box, and proceed with the application. There will be a final $8.25 fee to Gemalto, and once processed, you will see a list of
Gemalto Fingerprinting Sites, which can process your application and fingerprint you. This is typically an office suite such as a UPS office or a LiveScan Facility. You will then be fingerprinted, make sure to bring an ID or identification as it will be required to continue.
Once complete, the technician may prompt you to take a picture of the screen, as it will have your updated Application Number and information that can be submitted to your prospective employer in the mean time while your Card arrives in the mail, which should take a few weeks or so. If you are found ineligible for a fingerprint clearance card, or additional steps are required, you may receive a letter in the mail with instructions on any pending actions that you may have to take to correct, the application, if applicable.
Below you will find an infographic, listing the steps needed to apply for a FPCC online
