Live Scan vs Ink Fingerprinting: Which Is Right for You in Dallas?

When you need fingerprints for an FBI background check, FDLE Level 2, ATF application, employment screening, licensing, immigration, or any other purpose, you have two main options in Dallas: live scan fingerprinting or traditional ink & roll.

Understanding the differences helps you choose the method that’s fastest, most accurate, and least likely to be rejected.

Live Scan Fingerprinting (Digital / Electronic)

How it works
Your fingerprints are scanned electronically using a digital reader. The images are captured instantly and transmitted directly to the requesting agency (FBI, FDLE, ATF, employer, etc.).

Advantages

• Faster — results often transmitted in seconds

• Higher accuracy — less smudging or pressure errors

• Lower rejection rate — digital capture meets strict FBI standards

• Cleaner — no ink on hands or clothing

• Instant quality check — technician sees results immediately

Best for

• FBI background checks

• FDLE Level 2 submissions

• ATF e-file applications

• Employment, licensing, adoption, immigration

Protrace live scan pricing in Dallas: Starts at $45 (Print-to-Card FD-258)

Ink & Roll Fingerprinting (Traditional)

How it works
Fingerprints are rolled in ink onto a physical FD-258 card (or similar form) by a trained technician.

Advantages

• Accepted by almost all agencies worldwide

• No technology required — can be done anywhere

• Preferred in some jurisdictions that haven’t fully adopted digital

Disadvantages

• Slower — more steps and drying time

• Higher rejection risk — smudges, too light/dark, or uneven pressure

• Messy — ink on fingers and potential transfer to clothing

• No instant quality check

Best for

• Agencies or countries that require physical cards

• Backup when digital equipment isn’t available

Protrace ink & roll pricing in Dallas: $55

Which should you choose in Dallas?

Choose live scan if:

• Your agency accepts electronic submission (most do: FBI, FDLE, ATF, employers)

• You want the lowest rejection risk

• Speed and cleanliness matter

Choose ink & roll only if:

• The requesting agency specifically requires a physical inked card

At Protrace Fingerprinting in Uptown Dallas, we offer both methods — and our certified technicians will help you choose the right one for your needs.

Ready to get fingerprinted?
Schedule your Dallas live scan or ink appointment online or call (214) 444-9529 today.

Have questions about which method is right for your FBI check, FDLE submission, or ATF application? Drop them below — we’re happy to help.