Step-by-Step: Getting Oregon Fingerprints for Expungement

Getting fingerprinted is a required step in the expungement process — but don't worry, it's quick and easy. Under SB 397, you don't need fingerprints when you file your motion. You can file first and submit fingerprints to OSP separately. Here's everything you need to know.

Why Fingerprints Are Required

Oregon courts need a fingerprint-based criminal history report from the Oregon State Police (OSP) as part of your expungement case. Here's why fingerprints are used:

• Avoids mix-ups: Makes sure the report matches you, not someone with a similar name
• Shows your full history: Pulls up all convictions linked to your fingerprints
• The court requires it: Fingerprint-based checks are required for all set-aside filings

Step 1: Find a Fingerprinting Location

You have a few options for getting fingerprinted in Oregon:

Option 1: Private Fingerprinting Services

Cost: Typically $30–40
Speed: Walk-in or by appointment

Many private businesses offer fingerprinting services. Common locations include:

• UPS Stores: Many UPS Store locations offer fingerprinting
• Postal Annex and shipping centers: Check local shipping/postal service providers
• Private fingerprinting companies: Search "fingerprinting services near me"

Pros: Convenient hours, professional service, quick appointments
Cons: Higher cost than other options

Option 2: Law Enforcement Agencies

Cost: Some are free, others $15–25
Speed: By appointment usually

Many police departments and sheriff's offices offer fingerprinting:

• Local police departments
• County sheriff's offices
• State Police offices

Important: Call ahead to schedule an appointment and confirm:

• They provide fingerprinting for background checks
• Hours and availability
• Cost (if any)
• What to bring (ID, payment method)

Pros: Lower cost, sometimes free
Cons: Limited hours, appointment required, may have wait times

Option 3: OSP Directly

Cost: Varies by location
Speed: By appointment

Some OSP offices provide fingerprinting services. Contact your nearest OSP office to inquire about availability.

Step 2: What to Bring

Here's what to bring to your fingerprinting appointment:

• Valid photo ID: Driver's license, state ID, or passport
• Payment: Cash, check, or card (confirm accepted payment methods when scheduling)
• OSP fingerprint card (if you have one): Some fingerprinting services use their own cards; others require you to provide an OSP-specific card

Step 3: The Fingerprinting Process

The actual fingerprinting is fast — usually just 5–10 minutes:

1. The technician will verify your identification
2. They'll take prints of all ten fingers using either ink and paper or electronic scanning
3. You'll receive a completed fingerprint card
4. You pay the service fee

Electronic vs. Ink Fingerprinting

Electronic (Live Scan): Your fingerprints are scanned digitally and can sometimes be submitted electronically to OSP. Faster and cleaner (no ink on your hands).
Ink and Card: Traditional method using ink pads and paper cards. You'll mail the card to OSP yourself.

Both methods work for expungement background checks. Electronic is more modern, but ink-and-card is still widely accepted.

Step 4: Submitting Your Fingerprints to OSP

Once you have your fingerprint card, it needs to go to the Oregon State Police along with the $33 background check fee.

If you're filing on your own, send OSP:

• Completed fingerprint card
• OSP background check request form: Available on the OSP website or by calling OSP's Record Services Unit
• Payment: Money order or cashier's check for the $33 background check fee
• Self-addressed stamped envelope: So OSP can mail your results back to you

Mailing Address

If filing on your own, mail your fingerprint card and request to:

Note: Verify the current mailing address on the OSP website, as addresses can change.

Step 5: Wait for Your Background Check Results

Processing time: Up to 60 days

OSP will process your fingerprint-based background check and mail the results to the address you provided. It can take up to 60 days, though some come back sooner. Use this time to get your other documents ready.

Common Questions

What if my fingerprints get rejected?

Sometimes fingerprints are rejected because of poor print quality. If that happens:

• OSP will notify you and request new prints
• You'll need to get re-fingerprinted (may incur another fee at the fingerprinting service)
• Follow the same submission process

To avoid this, make sure the person taking your prints uses good technique and clean equipment.

Can I use fingerprints from a previous background check?

No. You need a fresh fingerprint card for each new background check request. Previous fingerprint cards cannot be reused.

Do I need fingerprints if I'm filing multiple expungements?

You only need one OSP background check if you're filing multiple expungements. The single background check report can be included with all petitions.

Cost Breakdown

Note: If you use Oregon Expungement Center, the OSP fee and postage are included in the $249 flat fee — you only pay for the fingerprinting service itself ($15–40).

Pro Tips

• Start early: OSP processing can take up to 60 days, so request your background check as the first step in your expungement process
• Call ahead: Confirm hours, cost, and what to bring before visiting a fingerprinting location
• Use certified mail: When mailing your fingerprints to OSP, use certified mail for tracking
• Include a SASE: Don't forget the self-addressed stamped envelope for your results
• Gather other documents while waiting: Use the OSP processing time to prepare your court forms and gather other required documents