Course details

Ink Fingerprinting 101 and Live Scan

Unlock the fundamentals of ink fingerprinting with focused online training on FD-258 cards, fingerprint collection, live scan awareness, and professional workflow.

Course Description

Whether you are a notary looking to add fingerprinting as a service, a mobile professional building a new revenue stream, or someone exploring the world of fingerprint identification, this course is designed to give you practical beginner skills and a stronger understanding of how fingerprint collection works.

By the end of the course, you will understand the FD-258 card, how to approach ink fingerprinting, how to recognize common print problems, and how to build a more professional fingerprinting appointment workflow.

Key Highlights

01

In-depth understanding of FD-258 cards

Learn the role of the FD-258 card, the purpose of the printed fields, and why print clarity and card handling are so important.

02

Practical ink fingerprinting techniques

Learn the basics of pressure, finger placement, rolling motion, ink control, and plain impressions so your fingerprint cards are easier to read.

03

Legal and professional workflow awareness

Review professional considerations such as identity review, chain of custody, record handling, client instructions, and why agency requirements matter.

04

Troubleshooting poor prints

Identify common problems including smudging, incomplete rolls, too much ink, too little ink, uneven pressure, and unclear ridge detail.

Course Format

This course is delivered online through a blend of video instruction, practical demonstrations, downloadable reference material, and workflow guidance that students can revisit as they build skill.

Video lessons

Clear explanations and demonstrations for beginner-friendly learning.

Hands-on practice

Practice concepts using your own FD-258 cards and fingerprinting supplies.

Resource support

Use checklists and troubleshooting reminders to reinforce your learning.

What you should have available

  • FD-258 fingerprint cards for practice
  • Ink pad or fingerprinting ink system
  • Card holder or stable flat surface
  • Cleaning supplies for hands and work area
  • A willingness to practice repeatedly until the prints improve