FBI Background Check: Fingerprinting Instructions
Some states and organizations require a fingerprint-based FBI criminal history check. Many states, including Pennsylvania, use IdentoGO to collect fingerprints. This guide walks through registering, scheduling, and getting fingerprinted at an IdentoGO location.
Before You Start
You'll need a service code to register. The service code tells IdentoGO which agency and purpose the check is for, so using the wrong one can mean your results aren't accepted.
Pennsylvania: Use the service code that matches your role (see the Pennsylvania section below)
Other states: Get the service code from your organization or the state agency that requires the check
If you're in Pennsylvania and you're an unpaid volunteer who has lived in the state continuously for the past 10 years, you may not need fingerprinting at all. See Pennsylvania FBI Fingerprint Exemption Affidavit.
Pennsylvania Service Codes
For Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) clearances for working with children:
Volunteers: 1KG6ZJ
Paid employees (coaches, staff, contractors): 1KG756
A clearance obtained with the volunteer code can't be used for a paid position, so paid coaches should use the employment code.
Step 1: Register Online
Enter your service code and continue
Select "Schedule or Manage Appointment" and complete the registration form
Make sure your name and information match your photo ID exactly
If you're asked whether you have an authorization code, select "No" unless your organization gave you one to cover the fee. Without one, you'll pay the fee at registration.
Step 2: Schedule Your Appointment
Enter your zip code to see nearby IdentoGO locations
Choose a location and an available time, or select walk-in if the location offers it
Watch for a confirmation email with your appointment details
You can also browse locations at https://www.identogo.com/locations.
Step 3: Get Fingerprinted
What to bring:
A valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID
Your registration confirmation
The fingerprinting itself only takes a few minutes. Keep your receipt, since it has the information you'll need to track your results.
Step 4: Get Your Results and Upload Them to Ankored
Results go to you, not to your organization. In Pennsylvania, you'll get instructions for accessing your clearance once it's processed. Save or download a copy as soon as you can, because online access may be limited.
Once you have your results, upload them to your FBI fingerprint requirement in Ankored so your organization's admins can review and approve them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long do results take?
A: Usually 1 to 2 weeks, though it can take longer. Start early so it doesn't hold up your start date.
Q: Who do I contact about registration, scheduling, or payment?
A: IdentoGO customer service at 1-844-321-2101.
Q: Who do I contact about the status of a Pennsylvania clearance?
A: The PA DHS ChildLine Verification Unit at 1-877-371-5422. IdentoGO can't give status updates once your fingerprints have been submitted.
Q: How long is a Pennsylvania FBI clearance valid?
A: 5 years from the date of issue.
Q: Does my organization pay for this?
A: It depends on your organization. Check with your organization's admin before you register.
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Disclaimer
This document is provided for informational purposes only. Service codes, fees, and processes are set by state agencies and IdentoGO and may change without notice. Ankored does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currency of this information. Confirm requirements with your organization and the relevant state agency.