When a set of fingerprints is good enough for a background check, the FBI calls these prints “classifiable”. If a set of fingerprints submitted to the FBI is not classifiable, the FBI will reject the submission. It may surprise you to know that there are some steps you can take to increase the chances that your prints will result in a classifiable set and make the fingerprinting session go more smoothly.

Only a small percentage of our clients can be fingerprinted easily without resorting to methods to make their print ridges more prominent. We use a glycerin-based moisturizer in our office, but having well-moisturized hands before you come to us will yield better results.

To help ensure your fingerprinting session is easier and more productive, drink plenty of fluids the day before and on the day of your fingerprinting session. Use moisturizer on your hands frequently over the 24 hours leading up to your appointment, especially after washing them.

If you have very dry skin or the ridges on your prints are worn away, you can take this a step further. Just before you go to sleep the night before, apply a quality lotion to your hands and go a little overboard with it. Then put on gloves and sleep with the gloves on your hands.

Hands that have been immersed in water tend to swell and may give substandard prints. For this reason, avoid activities such as swimming or washing dishes on the day of your fingerprint session. Don’t wash your hands or use sanitizer or lotion just before your appointment, either.

Do these things, and you’ll have a better chance at getting a good set of prints. To set up an appointment for fingerprinting, use the button below.