Florida real estate fingerprinting is required for every sales associate applicant. The state uses Livescan submissions that go to FDLE and the FBI, so your prints must be collected correctly and tied to the right ORI number.
Finish your course before you book prints. Enroll in Casa Academy’s Florida pre-licensing course so your application is ready to move forward quickly.
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Florida real estate fingerprinting overview
The DBPR requires electronic Livescan fingerprints for real estate applicants. Your fingerprints are sent to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the FBI for background checks, then routed back to the DBPR for review.
When to schedule fingerprints
After you submit your DBPR application
Schedule fingerprinting soon after you submit the RE 1 application so results arrive early in the review process. Waiting too long can delay your Authorization to Test.
Before you schedule the state exam
The DBPR typically issues Authorization to Test only after your education and background check are complete. Plan for fingerprints first so you can schedule the exam immediately once approved.
ORI number: why it matters
The ORI number tells FDLE where to send your fingerprint results. Using the wrong ORI can delay processing, so confirm the DBPR real estate ORI before your appointment.
Common places to confirm the ORI number:
- Your DBPR application confirmation or instructions.
- The DBPR licensing portal or licensing instructions.
- A DBPR-approved Livescan vendor (confirm it matches DBPR guidance).
Cost considerations
Fingerprinting costs vary by vendor and location, but you will typically pay a vendor service fee plus state and federal processing fees. Ask about total pricing before you book.
Costs that can affect your total:
- Vendor service fee (varies by provider).
- FDLE/FBI processing fees included in the total.
- Reprint fees if fingerprints are rejected or need resubmission.
What to bring to your Livescan appointment
- A valid government-issued photo ID.
- Your ORI number and profession (real estate sales associate).
- Any payment method required by the vendor.
- DBPR application details if the vendor asks for confirmation.
Common fingerprinting mistakes to avoid
- Using an ORI number for a different profession.
- Waiting until after your exam scheduling window opens.
- Choosing non-electronic fingerprint cards instead of Livescan.
Want a smooth application timeline? Start your coursework with Casa Academy so you can move straight into fingerprinting and approval.
FAQs
Q: What is Livescan fingerprinting in Florida?
A: Livescan is an electronic fingerprint submission system that sends your prints to FDLE and the FBI for background checks required by the DBPR.
Q: Do I need an ORI number?
A: Yes. The ORI number routes your results to the DBPR. Confirm the correct ORI for real estate applications before your appointment.
Q: How long do fingerprint results take?
A: Processing times vary. Submitting fingerprints early helps avoid delays in your application review.
Q: Can I use ink fingerprint cards?
A: The DBPR requires electronic Livescan submissions for most applicants. Check DBPR instructions if you believe you need an alternative.