If you’re entering the securities industry or need to maintain your FINRA registration, you’ve likely encountered the requirement for FINRA approved fingerprinting. This crucial step in the background check process can seem confusing at first, but understanding which companies offer FINRA approved fingerprinting services and how the process works will help you complete this requirement efficiently.
What Is FINRA Approved Fingerprinting?
FINRA approved fingerprinting refers to the fingerprint capture process required by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority for individuals registering in the securities industry. FINRA fingerprinting is essential for broker-dealers, registered representatives, and other financial professionals who need FBI background checks as part of their licensing requirements.
The FINRA approved fingerprinting process involves capturing your fingerprints electronically and submitting them through authorized channels to the FBI and other regulatory databases. This fingerprinting requirement ensures that all securities industry professionals undergo thorough background screening before receiving their licenses.
Companies That Offer FINRA Approved Fingerprinting
Professional Fingerprinting Service Providers
Several types of companies provide FINRA approved fingerprinting services across the United States. The most reliable option is to work with professional fingerprinting companies that specialize in regulatory compliance fingerprinting.
Houston Fingerprint is a leading provider of FINRA approved fingerprinting services in the Houston area. We understand the specific requirements for FINRA fingerprinting and ensure that your fingerprints are captured correctly and submitted promptly. Our experienced technicians are trained in the FINRA fingerprinting process and can help you complete this requirement without delays or rejections.
IdentoGO and MorphoTrust
IdentoGO, operated by IDEMIA, is one of the largest nationwide providers of FINRA approved fingerprinting services. With locations across the country, IdentoGO centers offer electronic fingerprinting for FINRA and other regulatory purposes. Their network makes it convenient to find FINRA approved fingerprinting near you.
Local Fingerprinting Companies
Many local fingerprinting businesses offer FINRA approved fingerprinting services. These companies often provide personalized service, shorter wait times, and competitive pricing compared to larger chains. When choosing a local provider for FINRA fingerprinting, verify they are authorized to submit fingerprints electronically to the appropriate agencies.
UPS Stores and Retail Locations
Selected UPS Store locations provide FINRA approved fingerprinting services as part of their business offerings. However, not all UPS stores offer fingerprinting services, so you’ll need to call ahead to confirm availability and ensure they can handle FINRA fingerprinting specifically.
How to Choose a FINRA Approved Fingerprinting Company
When selecting a company for your FINRA approved fingerprinting needs, consider these important factors:
Verification of Authorization
Ensure the fingerprinting company is authorized to capture and transmit fingerprints electronically. For FINRA fingerprinting, the company must be able to submit your prints through the proper channels. Ask whether they have experience with FINRA approved fingerprinting and understand the specific requirements.
Experience with Securities Industry Requirements
Companies familiar with FINRA fingerprinting requirements can help you avoid common mistakes that lead to rejected submissions. Houston Fingerprint specializes in FINRA approved fingerprinting and understands exactly what documentation you need and how to ensure your fingerprints meet quality standards.
Turnaround Time
Different companies offering FINRA approved fingerprinting have varying processing times. Some can capture and submit your fingerprints the same day, while others may take several days. Quick turnaround is crucial when you’re trying to complete your FINRA registration promptly.
Location and Convenience
Finding FINRA approved fingerprinting companies near your location saves time and travel expenses. Houston Fingerprint serves the greater Houston area with convenient scheduling and efficient service for all your FINRA fingerprinting needs.
Cost and Transparency
FINRA approved fingerprinting costs typically range from $50 to $100, depending on the provider and location. Choose a company that clearly states their pricing upfront. At Houston Fingerprint, we provide transparent pricing for all FINRA fingerprinting services with no hidden fees.
The FINRA Approved Fingerprinting Process
Understanding the FINRA fingerprinting process helps you prepare for your appointment and ensures smooth completion.
Step 1: Obtain Your Fingerprint Request Form
Before visiting a company for FINRA approved fingerprinting, you’ll need to obtain the proper request form from your sponsoring firm or through the FINRA system. This form contains specific information required for your FINRA fingerprinting submission.
Step 2: Schedule Your Appointment
Contact a FINRA approved fingerprinting company to schedule your appointment. Houston Fingerprint offers flexible scheduling to accommodate your timeline for FINRA registration.
Step 3: Bring Required Documentation
For your FINRA approved fingerprinting appointment, bring valid government-issued identification and your completed fingerprint request form. The fingerprinting company will verify your identity before capturing your fingerprints.
Step 4: Fingerprint Capture
The technician will capture your fingerprints electronically using specialized equipment. FINRA approved fingerprinting requires high-quality prints to ensure accurate background check results. Professional fingerprinting companies like Houston Fingerprint use advanced technology to capture clear, complete fingerprints that meet FINRA standards.
Step 5: Electronic Submission
After capturing your fingerprints, the company providing FINRA approved fingerprinting services will electronically submit them to the FBI and appropriate regulatory databases. You’ll receive confirmation of submission.
Why Choose Professional FINRA Approved Fingerprinting Services
Working with experienced professionals for your FINRA fingerprinting offers several advantages:
Expertise in Regulatory Requirements
Professional fingerprinting companies understand the specific requirements for FINRA approved fingerprinting. They know which forms are needed, how to properly capture fingerprints, and how to submit them correctly the first time.
Reduced Risk of Rejection
Improperly captured fingerprints lead to rejections and delays in your FINRA registration. Professional FINRA approved fingerprinting services minimize this risk by ensuring quality capture and proper submission.
Faster Processing
Experienced providers of FINRA approved fingerprinting can complete your appointment quickly and submit your prints immediately, accelerating your overall background check timeline.
Compliance Assurance
FINRA fingerprinting must meet specific regulatory standards. Professional companies stay current with requirements and ensure your submission complies with all FINRA regulations.
Common Questions About FINRA Approved Fingerprinting
How Long Does FINRA Fingerprinting Take?
The actual fingerprint capture during your FINRA approved fingerprinting appointment typically takes 10-15 minutes. However, the background check process after submission can take several weeks.
Can I Use Any Fingerprinting Company?
No, you must use a company authorized to provide FINRA approved fingerprinting services. These companies have the proper equipment and authorization to submit fingerprints electronically to regulatory databases.
What Happens If My Fingerprints Are Rejected?
If your FINRA approved fingerprinting submission is rejected due to quality issues, you’ll need to be re-fingerprinted. Choosing an experienced provider like Houston Fingerprint reduces this risk significantly.
Get Your FINRA Approved Fingerprinting Done Right
Completing your FINRA fingerprinting requirement doesn’t have to be stressful. By choosing a reputable, experienced company that specializes in FINRA approved fingerprinting, you can ensure your fingerprints are captured correctly and submitted promptly.
Houston Fingerprint provides professional FINRA approved fingerprinting services throughout the Houston area. Our experienced technicians understand the securities industry requirements and work efficiently to help you complete this crucial step in your FINRA registration. We offer convenient scheduling, competitive pricing, and the expertise needed to ensure your FINRA fingerprinting is done right the first time.
Whether you’re a new securities professional obtaining your first license or an experienced financial advisor renewing your registration, choosing the right company for FINRA approved fingerprinting matters. Visit https://houstonfingerprint.com/ to learn more about our FINRA fingerprinting services and schedule your appointment today.
Don’t let fingerprinting delays hold up your securities industry career. Contact Houston Fingerprint for reliable, professional FINRA approved fingerprinting services that meet all regulatory requirements and get you one step closer to your licensing goals.
