FD-1164 Fingerprint Cards: How to Avoid an FBI Rejection
What the FBI requires on the card, and the mistakes that send your request back
In short: The FD-1164 is the fingerprint card the FBI uses for personal Identity History Summary requests. It needs all ten fingers rolled plus flat impressions, in black ink on white card stock, with your name, date of birth and signature. Poor-quality prints are the top reason requests come back, so have them taken professionally.
What the FBI asks for on the card
- Form FD-1164 on standard white card stock. Use a current, unused card, never one that has already been processed.
- All ten fingers rolled, nail edge to nail edge, plus plain (flat) impressions taken at the same time.
- No red or purple ink. Use black ink.
- Your name, date of birth and signature printed on the card.
- Social Security number is optional. Include it only if you want it on the result.
Why cards get rejected
- Illegible ridges. Too much or too little ink, smearing, or a finger that slipped. The FBI has to be able to classify the prints.
- Partial rolls. Each print must cover the whole fingertip, not just the center.
- Prints in the wrong box, or fingers out of order.
- Worn or dry fingerprints, which are common with manual work, some skin conditions, or age. An experienced technician can often still get usable prints.
The FBI warns that illegible prints lead to rejection, delays and possibly extra fees. For a non-citizen with a visa deadline, a rejection can cost weeks.
FD-1164 vs. FD-258
Both are FBI fingerprint cards. The FD-258 is the applicant card that licensing boards and agencies send with their applications. The FD-1164 is the card the FBI asks for when you request your own record. We stock both. See ink fingerprint cards.
The full service for non-U.S. citizens
If you're requesting your own FBI record and you aren't a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, we roll your FD-1164, complete the eDO request with you, and send the card to the FBI. If the result is headed overseas, we can add an apostille.
Ready to start? Call or text 847-436-5222 before you come in so we can confirm a time and tell you exactly what to bring. Ask about pricing for the full service, and about adding a U.S. Department of State apostille if your result is going overseas.
Related guides
- FBI background check for non-U.S. citizens
- What is the FBI eDO (Electronic Departmental Order)?
- Why FBI channelers can't serve visa holders
- FD-1164 fingerprint cards: avoiding an FBI rejection
- FBI background check apostille
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I print an FD-1164 card at home?
The FBI asks for prints on standard white fingerprint card stock. Prints on home-printed paper risk rejection. We provide proper FD-1164 cards at our office.
Can I do my own fingerprints?
Technically anyone can roll prints, but rolling clear, complete impressions takes practice. Most rejections come from self-taken or rushed prints.
How many cards should I get?
One good card is needed per FBI request. Many people get a spare at the same visit in case they need to resubmit or have another request. Ask us when you book.
Is the FD-1164 the same as the FD-258?
No. Both are FBI fingerprint cards, but the FD-258 is the applicant card for licensing and agency submissions, and the FD-1164 is the card for requesting your own FBI record.