Fingerprinting for a Florida Real Estate License: What You Need to Know
Quick answer: If you're applying for a Florida real estate sales associate or broker license, you'll need to submit fingerprints for a background check as part of your application with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). In most cases, that means electronic Live Scan fingerprinting with the correct ORI number for real estate applicants. South Beach Apostille Translation & Notary offers Live Scan fingerprinting at our Miami Beach office and on-site across Miami-Dade and Broward.
Fingerprinting is one of the steps new real estate applicants most often get wrong, usually because of a wrong ORI number or doing it at the wrong time. This guide explains how it works so your application doesn't get delayed.
Why do real estate applicants need fingerprints?
Florida requires a fingerprint-based background check for real estate license applicants. Your fingerprints are submitted electronically, and the results go to DBPR so it can review your application. Without your background results, your application can't be completed.
Live Scan vs. FD-258 cards for real estate
| Live Scan | FD-258 ink card | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Fingerprints are captured digitally, without ink | Fingerprints are rolled in ink on a paper card |
| Who usually uses it | Applicants who can get fingerprinted in Florida | Some applicants who live outside Florida |
| Speed | Results are submitted electronically | The card must be processed separately |
Most Florida applicants use Live Scan. If you live outside Florida, check DBPR's current instructions for out-of-state options. Learn more in FD-258 Fingerprint Cards vs. Live Scan.
The ORI number: the detail that matters most
The ORI number tells the system which agency should receive your results. If the ORI is missing or wrong, DBPR may not receive your background check, and you may have to get fingerprinted again.
Before your appointment:
- Find the ORI number for real estate applicants in your DBPR application instructions.
- Bring those instructions with you.
- Double-check that the name and date of birth match your application.
Not sure what an ORI number is? Read What Is an ORI Number for Live Scan Fingerprinting in Florida?
When should you get fingerprinted?
Follow the timing in DBPR's current instructions. Many applicants get fingerprinted around the time they submit their application, so the background results and the application can be matched. Getting fingerprinted too early or too late can slow down your approval.
What to bring to your appointment
- A valid government-issued photo ID
- Your DBPR application instructions with the ORI number
- Any application or reference number you received
See the full checklist in Live Scan Fingerprinting in Miami: What to Bring and What to Expect.
Real estate school or brokerage? We come to you
If you run a real estate school or a brokerage with several new agents, we offer mobile and group fingerprinting across Miami-Dade and Broward. Your team gets fingerprinted on site instead of booking separate appointments. Learn more about mobile fingerprinting for employers.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need fingerprints to get a Florida real estate license? Yes. Florida requires a fingerprint-based background check for real estate license applicants.
What is the ORI number for a Florida real estate license? Use the ORI number listed in your DBPR application instructions. Bring it to your appointment so we can submit your fingerprints correctly.
Can I use my old fingerprints from another job or license? Not always. Fingerprints submitted for another agency may not be shared with DBPR. Check your DBPR instructions before you apply.
Can you fingerprint our whole real estate class or office? Yes. We offer mobile and group fingerprinting for schools, brokerages, and employers across Miami-Dade and Broward.
Do you offer same-day appointments? Same-day appointments may be available. Call (786) 970-0450 to check.
Ready to get fingerprinted?Schedule your appointment · Contact us · Call (786) 970-0450
South Beach Apostille, Translation & Notary is a private service provider and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an agent of DBPR, FDLE, the FBI, or any government agency. Requirements may change. Always follow the current instructions from the agency reviewing your application.
Related: Fingerprinting in Miami: In-Office, Mobile & Virtual · Who Needs Level 2 Fingerprinting in Florida? · Florida Healthcare License Fingerprinting
Related service: Live Scan Fingerprinting
