Whether you’re launching a new career or renewing your license, background checks and fingerprinting are a critical part of the process. But what many applicants don’t realize is that fingerprinting requirements vary significantly by profession—and making the wrong move can delay your application by weeks.
At TRACE2 Biometrics, we’ve spent over 12 years guiding professionals through this process. From cannabis dispensary agents to school bus drivers, we understand the unique requirements for each industry—and we’re here to help you get it done right the first time.
Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know based on your field:
🔒 Private Security (PERC Card Processing)
- Who Needs It? Anyone applying for a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) to work as a security guard in Illinois.
- Fingerprinting Required? Yes
Turnaround Time: 3–6 weeks - Pro Tip: Use a licensed vendor like TRACE2 to avoid delays. We submit your fingerprints directly to the Illinois State Police.
🌿 Cannabis Dispensary Agents (Infuser/Dispensary)
- Who Needs It? Anyone working in or applying for a cannabis dispensing or infusion license in Illinois.
- Fingerprinting Required? Yes — state-mandated
Turnaround Time: 2–4 weeks - Pro Tip: Bring your application ID or reference number—we’ll help you tie your prints to your license.
🩺 Traveling Nurses & Registered Nurses
- Who Needs It? RNs applying for multistate licensure, new roles, or renewals.
- Fingerprinting Required? Yes — especially for state board submissions
- Turnaround Time: 1–3 weeks, depending on the state
- Pro Tip: Out-of-state nurses often need an FBI Ink Card (FD-258)—we do both digital and ink at TRACE2.
💆♀️ Massage Therapists & Mental Health Applicants
- Who Needs It? Professionals applying for state licensure
- Fingerprinting Required? Yes
Turnaround - Time: 2–4 weeks
- Pro Tip: Requirements differ depending on the board—ask us for guidance before you book.
🚍 School Bus Drivers
- Who Needs It? New or renewing drivers in Illinois
- Fingerprinting Required? Yes
- Turnaround Time: 1–2 weeks
- Pro Tip: Make sure you have the proper code from your employer or licensing agency when you arrive.
🍷 Liquor License Applicants
- Who Needs It? Individuals applying for a business or individual liquor license
- Fingerprinting Required? Yes, especially in the City of Chicago or Cook County
- Turnaround Time: 3–5 weeks
- Pro Tip: We’ll walk you through the fingerprinting portion of the BASSET certification and licensing process.
🏠 Home Healthcare Agencies
- Who Needs It? Employees and owners of licensed in-home care agencies
- Fingerprinting Required? Yes — state and sometimes federal
- Turnaround Time: 1–2 weeks
- Pro Tip: Need group appointments? TRACE2 can come to you with mobile fingerprinting.
🧳 Chauffeurs & Transportation Network Drivers
- Who Needs It? Anyone applying to drive passengers professionally in Illinois
- Fingerprinting Required? Yes
- Turnaround Time: 2–3 weeks
- Pro Tip: Bring your state ID and any employer paperwork—many cities require agency-specific processing.
🎯 How TRACE2 Biometrics Makes It Easy
At TRACE2, we do more than just scan fingerprints. We:
Help you understand your specific industry requirements
Offer both Live Scan and FBI Ink Card services
Submit your prints directly to the correct state or federal agency
Provide complimentary help with application documents
Offer CPR, Notary, and Passport Photo services—all in one place
No guesswork. No wasted time. Just fast, professional service from people who’ve helped thousands of applicants like you.
