If you’re pursuing a career in real estate in California, one of the key steps in the licensing process is completing a Live Scan fingerprint background check. This is a mandatory requirement by the California Department of Real Estate (DRE) to ensure all applicants meet state standards for honesty, integrity, and legal eligibility.
In this post, we’ll explain how Live Scan fits into the real estate licensing process, what you’ll need to bring, where to go in places like Newport Beach, and how to avoid delays.
Why Is Live Scan Required for Real Estate Licensing?
The California Department of Real Estate (DRE) requires all applicants for a real estate license—whether salesperson or broker—to submit fingerprints via Live Scan. This background check ensures you don’t have any disqualifying criminal history or open legal issues that would prevent licensure.
Your fingerprints are submitted to both:
- The California Department of Justice (DOJ)
- The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
These agencies review your criminal history across state and national databases, and the results are sent directly to the DRE for review.
When Do You Need to Complete the Live Scan?
If you’re applying for your real estate salesperson license, you’ll complete Live Scan after you pass the license exam but before the DRE issues your license.
If you’re applying for a real estate broker license, the timing is similar—you’ll do your Live Scan fingerprinting as part of your final application step.
You can complete your Live Scan before or after your exam, but it’s smart to get it done early to avoid delays once you pass.
How to Complete Live Scan for Real Estate Licensing
Here’s a step-by-step guide to completing your Live Scan for the DRE:
1. Download the Correct Live Scan Form
The DRE requires a specific version of the Request for Live Scan Service form:
- Form RE 237 (Salesperson or Broker Applicants)
You can download this directly from the DRE website or ask for a copy during your exam or pre-license process.
📌 Important: This form includes the correct ORI code (CA-DRE), which routes your results to the Department of Real Estate. Using the wrong form can delay your licensing.
2. Find a Live Scan Location
Live Scan fingerprinting is available throughout California, including many locations in Newport Beach. You can search for certified providers on the California Attorney General’s website or call nearby providers to confirm availability.
Some Live Scan providers offer:
- Same-day appointments
- Walk-in services
- Digital copies of your receipt
- DOJ + FBI level submission
Make sure the location you choose handles DRE submissions specifically.
3. Bring the Required Items
To your appointment, bring:
- A valid, unexpired photo ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.)
- Your completed RE 237 Live Scan form
- Payment for both the rolling fee and government processing fees
The fees typically include:
- Rolling fee (charged by the Live Scan provider): $20–$40
- DOJ fee: $32
- FBI fee: $17
✅ Some providers offer bundled pricing; ask ahead of time.
4. Get Your ATI Number
After your scan, you’ll receive a copy of your completed form with an ATI number—a tracking number that proves your fingerprints were submitted. Keep this for your records.
You can track the status of your fingerprint submission via the DOJ website:
https://applicantstatus.doj.ca.gov
What the DRE Looks For in Your Background Check
The DRE uses the results to review your criminal history. They consider:
- Felony or misdemeanor convictions
- Fraud, theft, or financial crimes
- Disciplinary actions from other licensing boards
- Expunged or dismissed cases (which may still appear)
A criminal record doesn’t automatically disqualify you, but it will delay your application while the DRE evaluates your case. You may be asked to submit court records or rehabilitation documentation.
What If Your Fingerprints Are Rejected?
If your fingerprints are unreadable or incomplete, the DOJ or FBI may reject the scan. In that case:
- The DRE will notify you
- You’ll return to a Live Scan provider for a free resubmission
- You’ll repeat the scan using the same RE 237 form and ID
Tips to Avoid Licensing Delays
- Get your Live Scan early—don’t wait until after your exam results
- Use the correct RE 237 form with the DRE’s ORI code
- Go to an experienced provider that understands DRE fingerprinting
- Track your ATI number and confirm your results were processed
Final Thoughts
Live Scan fingerprinting is a critical step in obtaining your real estate license in California. If you’re in Newport Beach, you have access to several reputable Live Scan providers who can help you complete this process quickly and correctly.
Getting it done early—and getting it done right—can help you move forward in your real estate career without unnecessary delays. We recommend Newport Beach Livescan.
