FBI Fingerprint Collection, FD-258 Form Instructions 518-956-5673

Fingerprint Collection Notes

The FD-258 form consists of two pages: the first page contains information and fingerprint sections, while the second page includes important notes. Print multiple copies of the first page and attach one copy of the second page. Each page should be printed on a separate sheet; do not print double-sided. It is recommended to print extra copies to avoid rejection.

The middle section of the FD-258 form has individual boxes for each finger. Roll the finger from the left nail edge to the right nail edge, ensuring the fingertip is fully covered.

The lower section of the FD-258 requires simultaneous prints of multiple fingers. Apply ink to the entire skin surface of each finger without rolling.

If you are in China and plan to take your own fingerprints, avoid using red ink pads, as the FBI only accepts black fingerprints.

Tip 1: In China, it is best to visit a local notary office for fingerprint collection, but skip the notarization to save costs!

FD-258 Form Upper Section Sample: Red lines indicate required fields; leave others blank. Use a black pen.

FBI Official Instructions

Tip 2: Due to the possibility of unclear fingerprints, it is highly recommended to print multiple FD-258 cards. This can only help, as processing can proceed if at least one card is readable. I submitted 8 fingerprint cards to the FBI, and they were accepted directly. Ensure the cards have no creases, and fingerprints must stay within the designated boxes.

FD-258 Form Sample

When filling out the fingerprint card, use a black pen. If taking fingerprints yourself, leave "SIGNATURE OF OFFICIAL TAKING FINGERPRINTS" blank, and you may also leave "EMPLOYER AND ADDRESS" blank.

Other fields to leave blank include:

YOUR NO. OCA
FBI NO. FBI
ARMED FORCES NO. MNU
SOCIAL SECURITY NO. SOC (fill if available, otherwise leave blank)
MISCELLANEOUS NO. MNU

Required fields to fill out:

SIGNATURE OF PERSON FINGERPRINTED
RESIDENCE OF PERSON FINGERPRINTED
DATE
REASON FINGERPRINTED
LAST NAME
FIRST NAME
CITIZENSHIP CTZ
RACE: Enter "A" (for Asian)
HGT: Enter height in feet and inches without spaces, e.g., "510" for 5'10"
WGT: Enter weight in pounds, e.g., "150" for 150 lbs
EYES: Enter "BLK" (for Black)
HAIR: Enter "BLK" (for Black)
PLACE OF BIRTH POB
DATE OF BIRTH DOB

How Long Does It Take to Process an FBI Background Check?

We submit applications to the FBI office twice a week. Upon receiving your documents, we arrange submission as soon as possible. Processing typically takes 3–5 business days for U.S. citizens. For U.S. green card holders with Chinese passports, processing is slower, with some cases taking up to 4 months.

Illustration: Fingerprint Ink Pad (Choose black!)