Electronic fingerprinting has become the standard for most Ohio background checks, but paper fingerprint cards have not disappeared. Many applicants still need traditional ink prints on an FBI FD 258 card or another card format. Here is when ink cards are needed and how to make sure yours are accepted.

What Is an FD 258 Card

The FD 258 is the standard fingerprint card used by the FBI for many applicant background checks. It includes boxes for each rolled fingerprint, flat impressions of the fingers and thumbs, and fields for personal information. Many agencies outside Ohio still accept or require this card.

When You Might Need Ink Cards

Common reasons applicants need paper cards include:

• Licensing in another state that requires mailed cards
• Federal applications that call for an FD 258
• Immigration, adoption, or international document requirements
• Certain professional licenses that do not use Ohio WebCheck
• Agencies that specifically request physical cards

If you live in Ohio but are applying for a license in another state, ask that agency how they want fingerprints submitted. Some accept electronic prints from Ohio, while others require cards.

BCI Civilian Cards

In addition to the FD 258, there are state specific cards used for certain civilian background checks. If an agency asks for a BCI card, make sure you know exactly which form they need before your appointment.

Why Card Quality Matters

Ink cards are reviewed by people and machines that require clear ridge detail. Smudged, faint, or incomplete prints are a leading cause of rejection. When a card is rejected, the applicant usually has to start over, which can add weeks to the process. A trained technician knows how to roll each finger correctly, apply the right amount of ink, and check every box for clarity before you leave.

Tips for Applicants

• Bring the blank cards the agency sent you, if they provided specific cards
• Do not fill out or sign the card before your appointment unless instructed
• Bring a valid government issued photo ID
• Bring any instructions or cover letters from the requesting agency
• Ask whether you need one card or two, since some agencies request duplicates

Completing the Card Information

Fingerprint cards include fields for your name, date of birth, physical description, and other details. Fill them out neatly and accurately. Missing or illegible information can lead to rejection even when the prints themselves are perfect.

Ink and Electronic Services in One Place

Our Youngstown office provides both electronic Ohio WebCheck submissions and traditional ink fingerprinting on FD 258 and BCI civilian cards. Whether you are applying for an Ohio job or a license in another state, we can help you get prints that meet the agency’s standards.

We serve individuals and organizations from Boardman, Canfield, Poland, Campbell, Struthers, Hubbard, Austintown, Girard, Niles, and Warren. Learn more on our fingerprinting services page.