Fingerprint requirements and instructions for SFMO licenses

To start the process, you must submit a formal intent request to obtain the State Fire Marshal’s Office fingerprint service code by completing the fingerprinting process information required.

Fingerprints are required for a new application or for a renewal/reinstatement of an expired license/permit that has expired without another active license/permit on file. Your fingerprints must be done within 30 days of submitting your application, renewal, or reinstatement. Fingerprints are used to check criminal history records of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). SFMO uses IdentoGO electronic fingerprinting services, which has locations throughout the country.

Steps for getting your fingerprints at IdentoGO:

1. Schedule a visit online or by phone and use the SFMO service code provided through the formal intent process.
   

   Online: Go to the IdentoGO website.

   Phone: Call 888-467-2080.

2. Take your photo ID and payment to IdentoGO.
   • See the DPS website for a list of documents you can use to prove your identity.
   • IdentoGO accepts:
     • Credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express
     • Business checks
     • Money orders
     • Coupon codes (employer accounts)
     Personal checks and cash are not accepted.
3. Your fingerprints will be sent electronically to the DPS and the FBI. You won’t get a printed fingerprint card.
4. The IdentoGO agent will give you a receipt.
   
   • Attach a copy of the receipt to your application.
   • Keep the original receipt for your records.

Steps for getting hard card ink fingerprints

If electronic fingerprinting isn’t available, you can get hard card ink fingerprints.

1. To ask for a hard card, you can fill out a form online or call IdentoGO – use the service code provided through the formal intent process.

   Online: Go to IdentoGO website.

   Phone: Call 888-467-2080. Let them know you want to use a hard card.

2. After you call or fill out the online form, you will need to pay a fee. IdentoGO accepts:
   
   • Credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express
   • Coupon codes (employer accounts)
3. If you fill out the online form, the confirmation document will be emailed to you. If you call, the confirmation document will be mailed to you.
4. Get a copy of your fingerprints from a criminal law enforcement agency.
   
   • You will need to show your photo ID.
   • Get a complete set of your fingerprints on an approved FBI fingerprint card from a local law enforcement agency. The cost for obtaining an ink card may vary and is not included in the Texas Background fee.
   • The card must be signed by you and the official taking the fingerprints.
5. Mail your fingerprints and confirmation document to IdentoGO. The address is on the confirmation document. Don’t mail your fingerprints and confirmation document to SFMO – this will delay the processing of your application.
6. IdentoGO will mail a receipt to you. You can check the status by going to the IdentoGO website and clicking “Check the Status of your Service.”
7. Attach a copy of the receipt to your application. Keep the original receipt for your records.