When does this happen?
After you mail your packet. CDSS sends an introductory letter. It has your pending license number and tells you how to do Live Scan (Steps PDF, step 4).You do not put a Live Scan receipt in your mail packet. HCS 281 does not list one.
Who must be fingerprinted?
Applicants and owners. CDSS says all applicants and anyone who owns 10% or more must finish the background check before you get your license (Steps PDF, step 6). HCS 281 says the applicants are: each individual applicant, each partner in a partnership, the CEO of a corporation, each person who owns 10% or more of a corporation or LLC, and the manager of a manager-managed LLC.The law also names the owner, each 10%+ owner, and the CEO (HSC §1796.33).
Designees. Every designee on your HCS 308 must get a clearance or exemption and be associated to your agency (HCS 308). Corporations: CDSS will not license a corporation with an ineligible board member, executive director, or officer. Eligibility is set by HSC §§1796.40 and 1796.41 (HSC §1796.33(b)).Later, staff with client contact must be cleared before that contact (HCS 200 item 13c).
Already cleared by CDSS? A current clearance or exemption may transfer to your agency (Steps PDF, step 6).How to do it with Guardian
Guardian is CDSS's background check system.
1. Create a background check application in Guardian for each person. Start at the Guardian Applicant Portal. CDSS says doing this first can avoid delays.
2. Print the pre-filled Live Scan form from Guardian. Or ask the Home Care Services Branch for a paper form: (916) 657-3570 or [email protected] (CDSS Live Scan page). Use the form they give you. (The current LIC 9163 shows ORI A0448.)
3. Go to a Live Scan site. Bring a valid photo ID. Expired IDs are not accepted (DOJ). Bring two copies of the form (LIC 9163).
4. Track the status in Guardian.
Use only the form tied to your agency. CDSS says each form has details unique to your agency.
What does it check?
The Department of Justice uses your prints to search state and FBI records (HSC §1796.23(c)). You do not need a separate FBI request.
Out-of-state ID? A person living in another state may use a numbered photo ID from that state (HSC §1796.32(d)). Any conviction other than an infraction? That person needs a criminal record exemption (Steps PDF, step 6).How long and how much?
- Time: CDSS says about 3 days for DOJ and about 5 days for FBI, if there is no record. It takes longer if there is a record or the prints are rejected.
- Cost: The Live Scan operator tells you the charges. Site fees vary on the DOJ list. For fee questions, CDSS says to call the Care Provider Management Branch at 1-888-422-5669.
