---
title: "What Is Fingerprinting? Definition | Epic Life Glossary"
description: "Fingerprinting is a step in which an applicant gives fingerprints so a state can run a criminal history check. Many states require it as part of the..."
url: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/glossary/fingerprinting
publisher: Epic Life Group
apply: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/apply
quote: https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/get-a-quote
---

Agent licensing and appointments

# Fingerprinting

Fingerprinting is a step in which an applicant gives fingerprints so a state can run a criminal history check. Many states require it as part of the producer license application.

## Why it matters

Fingerprints are taken at an approved site or by a digital scan, and the results go to the state insurance department. Fees and processing times vary. The NAIC supports a shared approach so an agent can reuse a prior check where states allow it. Applicants with past convictions should disclose them honestly on the application, since hiding them can be treated as a bigger problem than the record itself.

Source: [naic.org](https://content.naic.org/insurance-topics/producer-licensing)

[Read next, for agentsHow life insurance licensing works across multiple states](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/careers/licensing)

## Where we use this term

-   [Your first 90 days as a telesales life insurance agent: a week-by-week ramp](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/first-90-days-as-a-telesales-agent)
-   [How to join an IMO: the questions to ask before you sign](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/how-to-join-an-imo)
-   [How to get a multi-state life insurance license: resident first, then nonresident](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/guides/multi-state-life-insurance-license)

## Start your climb.

Tell us where you are today and request a call about licensing, training and the calls.

[Apply to join](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/apply)

Shopping for coverage instead? [Get a quote](https://epicline.preview.multisites.ai/get-a-quote)