Introduction: The Timeless Value of Ink and Roll Fingerprinting
In an age of digital everything, traditional ink and roll fingerprinting services still play a critical role—especially when dealing with federal agencies, out-of-state licensing boards, or court-related documents.
At HoustonFingerprint.com, we specialize in ink and roll fingerprinting, offering professional, compliant, and fast fingerprinting for clients across Houston. Whether you’re completing immigration paperwork or applying for a background check through the FBI, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Ink and Roll Fingerprinting?
Ink and roll fingerprinting is a manual method of capturing an individual’s fingerprint impressions using black ink on a standard fingerprint card, usually the FD-258.
Each finger is rolled across the ink pad and then onto the card from nail to nail. Flat impressions are also taken (sometimes called “slaps”). This method provides a full ridge-detail image and remains the gold standard for many official processes.
Who Needs Ink and Roll Fingerprinting Services?
Despite the rise of digital Livescan technology, many agencies still require ink fingerprint cards, especially when electronic submissions aren’t supported.
Common use cases include:
- FBI background checks
- Out-of-state licensing boards (medical, legal, real estate)
- Court-related filings
- Adoptions and foster care certifications
- Immigration processes
- Visa applications or renewals
- ATF firearm licensing
- State-level clearance requirements
If your instructions mention “FD-258 card” or “mail-in fingerprints,” you’ll need ink and roll fingerprinting services.
Where Can You Get Ink and Roll Fingerprinting in Houston?
HoustonFingerprint.com offers multiple convenient options for your ink fingerprinting needs:
✅ Walk-In Locations – No appointment necessary
✅ By-Appointment Slots – Book online to skip the line
✅ Mobile Fingerprinting – We come to your home, office, or agency
✅ Certified FD-258 Cards Available On-Site
We provide everything you need—including ink, fingerprint cards, drying racks, and sealing envelopes—so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own materials.
Schedule an appointment now
What to Bring
Before your visit, make sure you bring:
- A valid government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, state ID)
- Any fingerprint card(s) provided by your requesting agency
- Instructions or cover letter from the agency (if available)
If you don’t have a card, don’t worry—we supply standard FD-258 cards approved for the FBI and other agencies.
Why Choose HoustonFingerprint.com?
We’re not just another fingerprinting provider. Here’s why Houston clients trust us:
🔹 Accurate Ink Impressions – Trained techs with years of experience
🔹 Fast Processing – Most sessions take less than 15 minutes
🔹 Card Review – We double-check print quality before you leave
🔹 Drying & Packaging Station – No smudging, ready for mailing
🔹 On-Demand Mobile Services – Ideal for law firms, clinics, HR offices
🔹 Notary Available – For submissions that require notarized fingerprint cards
We’re a one-stop shop for your ink and roll fingerprinting services in Houston.
Ink & Roll vs. Livescan: What’s the Difference?
Feature | Ink and Roll Fingerprinting | Livescan Fingerprinting |
Output Format | FD-258 Ink Card (physical) | Digital File (transmitted electronically) |
Accepted By | Federal agencies, courts, CPS, ATF | Licensing boards, employers, TREC, etc. |
Reprint Flexibility | Manual re-roll if errors occur | Instant redo on scanner |
Delivery Method | Mailed by you or your agency | Instant digital upload |
Best For | Agencies that require paper submissions | Fast background checks, modern forms |
Both are valid, but if you were specifically instructed to mail in fingerprints, you’ll need ink and roll.
What Happens After Your Appointment?
Once your prints are taken:
- You’ll be given the original FD-258 fingerprint card(s).
- We allow your prints to air-dry completely.
- You’ll receive a sealed envelope for mailing (if needed).
- If required, we can notarize the documents.
- We can even help with shipping your completed fingerprint cards.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use digital fingerprints instead of ink and roll?
A: Not always. Some agencies, especially at the federal level, still require physical ink cards.
Q2: What if I make a mistake on the card?
A: Don’t worry! We re-roll any flawed prints at no additional charge.
Q3: Do you provide fingerprint cards?
A: Yes! We provide standard FBI FD-258 fingerprint cards.
Q4: How long does the appointment take?
A: Most ink and roll fingerprinting appointments take under 15 minutes.
Q5: Do you offer mobile services?
A: Absolutely. We provide mobile ink fingerprinting across Houston for individuals and organizations.
Conclusion: Still Relevant, Still Required
Though technology evolves, ink and roll fingerprinting services remain essential for many legal, federal, and licensing requirements. HoustonFingerprint.com combines professionalism, convenience, and precision to make the process easy and compliant.
If you’re searching for “ink and roll fingerprinting services,” trust your prints to the experts who specialize in exactly that—visit HoustonFingerprint.com or book your appointment now!