Fingerprinting requirements vary by state and depend on what type of license you're getting
Not all states require fingerprints for a standard driver's license. Most states that do fingerprint are checking your background for disqualifying crimes — usually felonies involving violence, drugs, or fraud. Some states fingerprint everyone; others only fingerprint people renewing after a suspension, getting a commercial license, or explore for the first time as an adult. A few states don't fingerprint at all for driver's licenses, though they may do it for other documents like Real ID.
The reason states differ is that driver's licensing is run by each state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent), not by the federal government. There is no national standard. What matters for you is what your state requires right now, because the rules change and vary based on your age, license type, and whether you've held a license before.
Key Takeaways
- States that require fingerprints typically do so to check for disqualifying criminal convictions, not to build a national database.
- Fingerprinting requirements depend on your age, whether you're getting a standard or commercial license, and whether you're renewing after a suspension.
- Some states fingerprint at the DMV during your appointment; others send you to a separate fingerprinting vendor or law enforcement office.
- If your state requires fingerprints and you don't provide them, your license process will be delayed or denied.
- Real ID compliance may involve fingerprinting even if your standard driver's license does not.
States that fingerprint for standard driver's licenses
States including California, Florida, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas require fingerprints for driver's license applications in most or all cases. California and Florida fingerprint nearly all applicants. New York requires fingerprints for first-time adult applicants and anyone renewing after a suspension. Pennsylvania fingerprints first-time applicants and commercial license holders. The exact trigger varies, so you need to check your state's DMV website or call before your appointment.
In these states, fingerprinting usually happens at the DMV during your appointment, though some states contract with a third-party vendor like IdentoGO or send you to a local police station. The DMV website for your state will tell you where to go and whether you need to schedule a separate fingerprinting appointment or if it happens the same day as your license photo and written test.
States that fingerprint only for commercial licenses or after suspension
Many states — including Colorado, Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, and Virginia — do not fingerprint for a standard driver's license but do require fingerprints if you're getting a commercial driver's license (CDL). Some also fingerprint people renewing after a license suspension or revocation, because the state wants to verify that the reason for the suspension (often a DUI or reckless driving conviction) is still on record.
If you're getting a standard license in these states, you typically won't need fingerprints. If you're upgrading to a CDL or renewing after a suspension, you will. Again, your state's DMV website will specify the exact rule for your situation.
States with no fingerprint requirement for driver's licenses
Some states, including Arizona, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri, do not require fingerprints for driver's licenses at all. These states rely on other background checks — like checking the National Driver Register for prior suspensions or convictions — but do not take your fingerprints as part of the licensing process.
This does not mean these states have no background check. It means they verify your identity and history through databases rather than biometric data. If you move to one of these states from a state that fingerprints, you will not be fingerprinted when you get a license there.
How to learn about your state requires fingerprints
The fastest way is to go to your state's DMV website and search for "fingerprints" or "background check." Most state DMV sites have a section for first-time applicants, renewal, or commercial licenses that spells out whether fingerprints are required. If the website is unclear, call your local DMV office or the state DMV customer service line — they can tell you in one call whether you need fingerprints for your specific situation.
Bring the answer with you to your appointment. If your state requires fingerprints and you show up without knowing it, you may be turned away and have to reschedule. If you're unsure, ask when you book your appointment online or by phone.
What happens if fingerprints are required and you don't provide them
If your state requires fingerprints and you don't provide them, your process will not be processed. The DMV will either deny your process outright or put it on hold until you complete the fingerprinting step. You cannot get your license without it.
The delay is usually a few days to a few weeks, depending on how quickly you schedule the fingerprinting appointment and how long the background check takes. Some states process fingerprints within 24 hours; others take up to two weeks. Plan ahead so you're not caught without a valid license if you need to drive.
Real ID and fingerprints: a separate requirement
Real ID is a federal standard for state-issued IDs and driver's licenses. Some states require fingerprints to issue a Real ID-compliant license even if they don't fingerprint for a standard license. Others fingerprint for standard licenses but not for Real ID. The rules are separate.
If you're getting a Real ID license, check your state's DMV website for Real ID requirements specifically. You may need to provide fingerprints, a birth certificate, proof of Social Security number, and proof of address — or you may only need some of those documents. Real ID rules are state-specific, so do not assume your standard license requirements explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all states share fingerprint data with the FBI?
States that fingerprint for driver's licenses typically submit the prints to their state police or the FBI's fingerprint database to check for disqualifying convictions. However, not all states do this the same way. Some states keep the fingerprints on file; others delete them after the background check is complete. Check your state's privacy policy on its DMV website if you want to know what happens to your fingerprints after your license is issued.
Can I get a driver's license without fingerprints if my state requires them?
No. If your state requires fingerprints, you cannot get a driver's license without providing them. There is no waiver or alternative. You must complete the fingerprinting step as part of the process process.
If I move to a different state, do I need to be fingerprinted again?
It depends on the new state's rules. If you move from a state that fingerprints to one that does not, you will not be fingerprinted for your new license. If you move to a state that does fingerprint, you will be fingerprinted when you explore for your new license, even if you were fingerprinted in your previous state. Each state runs its own background check.
How long does the fingerprinting process take at the DMV?
The actual fingerprinting usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. The background check that follows can take anywhere from a few hours to two weeks, depending on the state and whether any issues come up. Your DMV appointment for your photo and written test is separate from the fingerprinting appointment in some states, so plan for two visits if that's the case in yours.
What if I have a criminal record — will fingerprints automatically disqualify me?
Not necessarily. States disqualify people for specific crimes — usually felonies involving violence, drugs, or fraud — not for all criminal records. A misdemeanor or an old conviction may not disqualify you. The only way to know is to contact your state DMV and ask what crimes are disqualifying, or to explore and see what the background check reveals. Some states will tell you in advance if a conviction will be a problem.