Frequently Asked Questions

New Mexico Requirements

What is IDENTOGO/IDEMIA?

If you need fingerprinting  for the state of New Mexico, in regards to employment, licensing or certification, please contact  Identogo customer service at 877-467-9215 or visit https://nm.state.identogo.com

What is an ORI Number?

​In New Mexico, an ORI number (Originating Agency Identifier) is a unique code used to identify an agency that is authorized to receive criminal history information from the FBI or state background check systems. It's required when submitting fingerprints for background checks through services like IDEMIA) or the New Mexico Department of Public Safety (NMDPS).

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General Fingerprinting Services

What is digital fingerprinting and how does it work?

Digital fingerprinting uses advanced electronic scanners to capture high-quality images of your fingerprints. Unlike traditional ink methods, digital fingerprinting is cleaner, faster, and produces more accurate results. The process takes just a few minutes and eliminates smudging or retakes.

How long does a fingerprinting appointment take?

Most fingerprinting appointments take 10-15 minutes from start to finish. This includes paperwork, the actual fingerprinting process, and any additional services you may need.

What do I need to bring to my fingerprinting appointment?

Please bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and any specific forms or paperwork required by the requesting agency. Payment can be made at the time of service.

Do you offer mobile fingerprinting services?

Yes! ABQ Fingerprinting offers mobile services throughout New Mexico, including Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Santa Fe, Rio Rancho, and Roswell. Contact us to schedule a mobile appointment at your location by calling 877-320-8822 today.

What's the difference between ink and digital fingerprinting?

Digital fingerprinting is more accurate, faster, and cleaner than traditional ink methods. Digital scans can be instantly transmitted to agencies, while ink cards must be physically mailed, which can delay processing times.

FBI Background Checks

How long does an FBI background check take to process?

FBI background check processing times vary but typically take 1 to 3 business days for electronic submissions. Traditional ink card submissions can take several weeks to process.

What is an FD-258 fingerprint card?

The FD-258 is the official FBI fingerprint card used for background checks. It's a standardized form that captures your biographical information and fingerprints for federal background screening purposes.

What other fingerprint cards are offered?

We process FD-258, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio Civilian, SF-87A, FD-1164, and Child ID cards, meeting all state and federal requirements.

What is included with my fingerprinting appointment?

Two fingerprint cards, a chipboard and a mailing envelope.

Can I use my fingerprints for multiple background checks?

Each background check requires its own set of fingerprint cards. To make the process easier, ABQ Fingerprinting offers clients the option to securely archive their fingerprints for future use. Prints may be archived for one, three, or five years and can be accessed upon request. Standard fees apply for each card printed.

What shows up on an FBI background check?

FBI background checks show federal criminal history, including arrests, convictions, and federal offenses. They do not include state-only records, traffic violations, or civil matters unless they resulted in federal charges.

Specialized Services

What is an apostille service and when do I need it?

An apostille is an official certification that authenticates documents for international use. You need apostille services when submitting FBI background checks or other official documents to foreign countries for work, immigration, or education purposes.

What is ATF-EFT fingerprinting used for?

ATF-EFT (Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms Electronic Fingerprint Transmission) is required for federal firearms licenses, explosive permits, and other ATF-regulated activities. This specialized service transmits fingerprints directly to the ATF for processing.

Do you provide Florida Live Scan (FDLE) services?

Yes, we are an FDLE authorized vendor and provide Florida Live Scan services for Florida state background checks, including those required for employment, licensing, and volunteer work in Florida.

Appointments and Locations

How do I schedule an appointment?

You can schedule appointments through our website booking system, call us at 877-340-8822, or contact our partner locations directly. We recommend scheduling in advance to ensure availability.

What are your hours and locations?

We serve multiple locations across New Mexico:

• Las Cruces: HTM Security Services - Monday-Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

• Rio Rancho: Beyond Mail & Print - Monday-Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

• Santa Fe: DMV Title Experts - Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

• Roswell: C&J Drug Screening - Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Do you accept walk-ins or is it appointment only?

While we recommend scheduling appointments to guarantee service and minimize wait times, we may accommodate walk-ins based on availability at each location. 

What forms of payment do you accept?

Our main location in Albuquerque accepts cash and all major credit cards. We encourage clients to schedule and pay on line. We have appointments every 10 minutes. Our partners in Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, Roswell, and Santa Fe, take appointments that are scheduled and paid for online through ABQ Fingerprinting website. Each location accepts walk ins.  

Pricing and Processing

How much do your services cost?

Pricing varies by service type and location. Contact us at 877-340-8822 or visit our booking system for current pricing information.

Can you rush process my fingerprints?

We process fingerprints immediately during your appointment. However, background check processing times depend on the receiving agency (FBI, state agencies, etc.) and cannot be expedited by our office.

What happens if my fingerprints are rejected?

If fingerprints are rejected due to quality issues, we will re-take them at no additional charge. Quality rejections are rare with our digital fingerprinting technology.

Additional Services

Do you provide notary services?

Yes, through our Enchantment Notary Services division, in Albuquerque, we provide comprehensive notary services including wills, trusts, real estate transactions, affidavits, apostille services, and business documents.

Can you help with document authentication?

Yes, we provide apostille services for document authentication, most commonly for FBI background checks intended for international use. Once you receive your FBI Background Report, simply select the apostille service on our website and upload your report as a PDF file. This service can be completed entirely online—no return visit is required. You may choose either standard or expedited processing at checkout.

Do you serve businesses or just individuals?

We serve both individual clients and businesses. We can arrange group appointments for companies needing multiple employee background checks or provide mobile services to your business location.