The 2025 Complete Guide to Ink Fingerprinting in Indianapolis
(Convenient, Reliable, and Apostille-Ready FBI Background Checks)
Introduction: Why Ink Still Matters in a Digital Age
In a world where everything seems to be going digital, you might assume fingerprinting is no different. But here’s the truth: thousands of agencies, employers, and foreign governments still require traditional ink fingerprint cards—especially the official FBI FD-258 cards.
And when it comes to convenience? You shouldn’t have to chase down a police station appointment, wait in line, or wonder if your prints are clear enough. That’s exactly why I built Signature Move Notary Services into a trusted fingerprinting solution for Indianapolis.
I bring the service to you. Fast, professional, and done right the first time.
What Is Ink Fingerprinting?
Ink fingerprinting is the traditional method of capturing fingerprints on physical FD-258 cards using black ink. While digital “live scan” has become more common, many agencies—especially international ones—still require the inked originals.
At Signature Move:
We use FBI-approved FD-258 cards.
We ensure prints are clear and properly rolled (avoiding smudges/rejections).
We provide multiple cards if your application requires extras.
Why Do People Still Need Ink Fingerprinting?
Ink fingerprinting is typically required for:
FBI background checks (for visas, adoption, overseas employment)
State licensing boards (nursing, medical, legal, and financial professionals)
Immigration processes
Out-of-state or federal agencies that won’t accept digital scans
International requests where the destination government requires “wet ink”
💡 Fun fact: The FBI itself still accepts mailed ink fingerprint cards for official background checks.
FBI Background Checks: Channeler vs. Direct
If you’re requesting an FBI background check, you’ve got two options:
Direct through FBI
Mail your ink cards directly to the FBI.
Processing takes several weeks.
Through an FBI-Approved Channeler
Channelers are private companies authorized by the FBI.
They can process requests much faster (often 24–72 hours).
You still need ink cards to submit.
👉 At Signature Move, I provide the ink fingerprint cards you need for either route. If your goal is international use, I’ll also guide you on how to get your FBI report apostilled so it’s valid abroad.
Why We Don’t Do Digital Fingerprinting
Here’s the honest truth: digital systems aren’t accepted everywhere. Many agencies, especially international governments, insist on original ink cards.
That’s why I keep it old-school (and accurate) with ink. You won’t leave wondering if your prints will get rejected because they weren’t “digital enough.”
Plus—ink prints don’t require you to track down a specific machine. I bring everything you need to your location.
Step-by-Step: How Ink Fingerprinting Works at Signature Move
Step 1 — Schedule Your Appointment
I come to you—home, office, or another agreed location in Indianapolis or surrounding counties.
Step 2 — Prepare for Printing
Bring a valid government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.).
Wash your hands; avoid lotions that can blur ridges.
Step 3 — Roll the Prints
I carefully roll each finger on the FBI FD-258 card using proper ink technique.
Multiple cards can be completed if required.
Step 4 — Quality Check
We review the cards together to ensure all prints are legible, names are spelled correctly, and forms are properly completed.
Step 5 — Next Steps (Optional FBI Apostille)
If your fingerprints are for an FBI background check that will be used abroad, I can also handle:
Submitting your FBI report for federal apostille in Washington, D.C.
Returning the apostilled FBI report to you in as little as 2 weeks (instead of 5+ weeks if mailed).
Quick Checklist: What to Bring
Government-issued ID
Clean hands (no lotion/oils)
Any specific agency forms (if provided)
Patience for a few minutes while we roll prints on the FD-258 card
Why Signature Move Notary Services Is Different
✔ Mobile service — I come to you (no police station hassle)
✔ Professional ink technique — clear, consistent prints
✔ Convenience — same-day scheduling available
✔ FBI-ready FD-258 cards included
✔ One-stop shop — I can also apostille your FBI background check so it’s valid abroad
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Smudged or partial prints (often from self-rolling at home)
❌ Using outdated or unofficial fingerprint cards
❌ Mailing prints to the wrong agency or without payment
❌ Forgetting that international use requires an apostille
Real Client Story: Ink Prints to Apostille
A client needed ink fingerprints for an FBI background check to work in Spain. He started by mailing cards himself but lost weeks waiting. When we re-did his prints:
I provided FBI-approved FD-258 cards.
He submitted through a channeler, had his results in 48 hours.
Our courier hand-delivered the FBI report to the U.S. Department of State in D.C. for a federal apostille.
He had everything ready in 12 days—well before his flight.
That’s convenience. That’s confidence.
