Fingerprinting

You can request public records from the Maryland State Police under the Maryland Public Information Act (PIA). Records may be shared with the person named in the record, their lawyer, or others allowed by law. You can request items such as licensing records, reports, and other agency documents, unless the information is legally protected. We’re here to help you request the information you need.

LiveScan fingerprinting

LiveScan fingerprinting is a digital way to capture fingerprints using a scanner instead of ink and paper. 

• Your fingerprints are scanned electronically, not rolled in ink
• The fingerprints are sent securely to the correct agency for a background check
• The process is faster, cleaner, and more accurate than traditional fingerprinting

LiveScan is required in Maryland for many applications, including permits, licenses, firearms credentials, and certain regulated jobs. It must be done through an approved LiveScan provider.

LiveScan fingerprints are valid for 12 months after the date of fingerprint

Who needs fingerprinting

You need fingerprinting if you are applying for:

• A permit
• A professional license
• Firearms credentials
• A security or detective job
• Another regulated role in Maryland

What to bring

• A valid, government-issued photo ID
• A printed copy of your Live Scan pre-registration application - PDF.
• Payment: personal check or credit card (Mastercard, Visa, or Discover)

Please provide the following information to your LiveScan technician based on what you're applying for.

Important payment notes:

• Credit cards cannot be used over the phone
• The person who wrote the check must be present
• Cash is not accepted

Fingerprinting service locations

Maryland offers fingerprinting services at six locations.

Walk-in fingerprinting:
6776 Reisterstown Road, Suite 101
Baltimore, MD 21215

Appointment-only fingerprinting (CJIS at MVA locations):
Appointments are required at CJIS offices located inside Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) buildings.
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET

• Bel Air: 501 West MacPhail Road
• Frederick: 1601 Bowman’s Farm Road
• Glen Burnie: 6601 Ritchie Highway NE
• Salisbury: 251 Tilghman Road
• Waldorf: 11 Industrial Park Drive

Other fingerprinting options
CJIS also works with authorized private fingerprinting providers at more than 20 locations across Maryland.