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Two FBI fingerprint cards look a lot alike, and choosing the wrong one can cost you weeks. Here's a plain-English comparison of the FD-258 and the FD-1164, and how Notary Java's fingerprinting services fit in.
The FD-258: The Applicant Card
The FD-258 is the FBI's standard applicant fingerprint card. It's the one with the familiar blue lines. Agencies, licensing boards, and employers often ask for it when a background check is part of an application. Typical uses include:
- Professional and occupational licensing in other states
- Some employment and volunteer background checks
- Immigration or out-of-state agency requirements, as directed by the agency
In Maine, out-of-state applicants who can't come to an IdentoGO Live Scan location may be told to submit an FD-258 by mail for IdentoGO's card-scan service. Always follow the instructions from the agency that asked for your prints.
The FD-1164: The Personal Records Request Card
The FD-1164 goes with an Identity History Summary Check, the request you make to the FBI for your own record. People use it for:
- Visas, residency, and work abroad
- Adoption paperwork
- Personal review of their own FBI record
According to the FBI, the FD-1164 may be printed on standard white paper, and the FBI requires a current, original card. Cards are not returned. You can submit the request electronically or by mail, and options also include participating post offices and FBI-approved channelers.
Planning an Apostille?
If the FBI results are headed overseas, they usually need an apostille or authentication from the U.S. Department of State, not the Maine Secretary of State. Our apostille page and our study-abroad guide explain the steps.
Quick Comparison
| FD-258 | FD-1164 | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Applicant/agency background check | Your own FBI Identity History Summary |
| Who requests it | An agency, board, or employer | You |
| Paper | Official card stock | Standard white paper accepted |
Getting Ink Prints in Southern Maine
We roll ink fingerprints on the card you bring, or the one your agency provides, at our South Portland office or at your location in Portland, Scarborough, Westbrook, and beyond. Before your appointment:
- Confirm the card type with the agency that asked for it.
- Fill in your personal information in black ink, or ask us to walk you through the fields.
- Bring a government-issued photo ID.
- Moisturize for a day or two beforehand, since dry skin makes faint ridges.
If your agency requires an electronic Maine Live Scan instead, we'll tell you up front so you don't book the wrong service.
Keep Reading
- Ink Fingerprint Cards vs Maine Live Scan: What to Know
- Apostilles for Study Abroad and FBI Background Checks
- Mobile Notary in South Portland, Maine: We Come to You
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I print the FD-1164 at home?
The FBI says the FD-1164 may be printed on standard white paper. Use the current version from the FBI website.
Which card does my Maine employer need?
Many in-state Maine checks use electronic Live Scan through IdentoGO rather than ink cards. Ask your employer or board which method they need.
Do you send my cards to the FBI?
We roll the prints and hand the completed cards back to you. You submit them by following your agency's or the FBI's instructions.
Is fingerprinting a notarial act?
No. Rolling fingerprints is a separate service and doesn't require a notary seal unless your agency asks for a notarized form too.
Book Your Appointment
Call or text 207-808-0550 to schedule with Notary Java. We are based at 50 Market Street, #400, South Portland, ME 04106, and we come to you across Greater Portland, York and Cumberland counties, and beyond. If you need documents printed, use the Upload Document Now (Send Documents) button in our contact section, or email files to SigningService@NotaryJava.com. That inbox is for sending documents only, so please call or text to book.
Disclaimer: This article is general information, not legal advice. Requirements change and vary by agency and country, so confirm with the receiving office or your attorney.