What to Do If Your FBI Fingerprints Are Rejected: Complete Guide for Applicants

Introduction

If your FBI fingerprints are rejected, it can feel frustrating—especially when you’re in the middle of important processes like employment screening, licensing, or immigration. A rejected print (whether on an FD-258 card or via Livescan) doesn’t mean game over—it’s just a hurdle you can clear. At PacSigning.com, we help applicants resolve rejections quickly and efficiently so your process stays on track.

Why Fingerprints Get Rejected

The FBI maintains very high standards. Common reasons for rejection include:

  • Smudged or patchy prints due to improper rolling or insufficient ink.
  • Scars or cuts that obscure ridge detail.
  • Use of an outdted or incorrect fingerprint form (FD-258 vs. Livescan).
  • Inaccurate or missing personal data (like name, DOB, or ORI code).
  • Expired or unofficial fingerprint cards.

If a print gets rejected, you’ll receive a notice—typically by mail or email—containing an FBI rejection code (e.g. S0, S5). These indicate what went wrong and guide the reprint process.

Your Step-by-Step Reprint Plan

1. Review Your Rejection Notice

Return any communication from the FBI or submitting agency. It includes details like rejection codes and expectations for reprint or resubmission.

2. Reach Out Immediately

Contact the agency requesting the FBI report (e.g., employer, licensing board) and inform them the prints were rejected and will be reprinted. Show them the rejection notice and code.

3. Schedule a Reprint with PacSigning.com

We offer prompt walk-in and appointment options. To prepare, bring:

  • The original rejection notice
  • Valid government-issued photo ID
  • Your original fingerprint card (or Livescan request form)

We prioritize reprints and can often complete them the same day.

4. Understand Why It Happened

Our technicians analyze the cause (e.g., smudging, incorrect form) and explain what’s required for FBI acceptance. Your reprint will be done with care to meet specifications.

5. Resubmit Quickly

We’ll submit it using the correct method—via Livescan or FD-258—and provide real-time confirmation of FBI submission so you can re-engage your requesting agency.

Causes of Rejection & How We Fix Them

Rejection Cause PacSigning.com’s Solution
Smudged or faint prints We clean your fingers, use fresh ink, and dry prints properly
Missing or partial prints We ensure full nail-to-nail rolls on all fingers
Incorrect form We use authorized FD-258 cards or Livescan forms, as required
Data errors Your name, DOB, and ORI code are verified before printing
Scarred ridge patterns Our technicians evaluate and adjust printing technique accordingly

 

Ink & Roll vs. Livescan Reprints

Livescan reprints are quick and produce digital clarity. However, some agencies require physical ink prints (FD-258). At PacSigning.com, we offer both and ensure each resubmission aligns with your agency’s needs.

How Fast Is It?

  • Ink reprints: About 15–20 minutes per card.
  • Livescan reprints: Instant rescan, outcome reviewed on site.
  • FBI resubmission: Usually transmitted the same day, with result delivery in 24–48 hours.

We also offer tracking updates once the FBI acknowledges receipt.

Avoiding Future Rejection: Tips From the Pros

  • Wash and thoroughly dry your hands before printing.
  • Make sure you use fresh ink and quality paper cards.
  • Print each finger fully and evenly—nail edge to nail edge.
  • Double-check your personal information before printing.
  • Ask for quality confirmation before leaving.

Our technicians are here to guide you—just ask!

Real-Life Example: From Rejection to Approval

A client at PacSigning.com had their prints rejected (S5 code). We reprinted on-site after reviewing technique, submitted via Livescan that same day, and their FBI report arrived in 48 hours—perfectly timed for their licensing deadline.

FAQs

Q: How long will my application be delayed?
A: Usually just a few days. Once your reprint is submitted, your process resumes quickly.

Q: What if I lost the rejection notice?
A: We can still help—just contact us with any details you have (name, DOB, ORI code).

Q: Do you waive reprint fees?
A: If prints were rejected due to technician error, there’s no reprint fee.

Q: Can I get a digital copy of my results?
A: Yes—documents can be sent digitally or by physical mail, depending on requirements.

What to Do Now

  1. Call PacSigning.com right away at (XXX) XXX-XXXX, or
  2. Visit our online reprint scheduler, or
  3. Walk in during normal business hours and ask for “FBI fingerprint reprint after rejection.”

We’ll review your rejection code, walk you through the process, and get your prints submitted quickly.

Final Words

Fingerprint rejections happen—but they don’t have to derail your plan. With the right provider and proactive re-submission, you’ll get back on track fast. At PacSigning.com, our priority is clean, accepted prints and your peace of mind.

Immediate scheduling
No-cost reprint for errors
Livescan & ink reprints
Clear FBI transmission
Experienced guidance throughout the process

Don’t wait—contact us today if your prints were rejected. We’ve got your next step ready.