How long do your fingerprints stay on file?
John Hall
Updated on April 17, 2026
After 90 days, the FBI deletes the fingerprint background check transactions and considers the FBI background check request complete. The applicant has to be fingerprinted again, which starts the FBI fingerprint background check process over.
How long does the FBI keep your fingerprints on file?
Most states restrict the information to seven years, but others allow a 10-year history to be reported, but only for fingerprint checks.Do fingerprint scans expire?
No, as long as your fingerprints are still valid. If you are required to re-fingerprint - you will be notified by the Commission.How long do police keep fingerprints on record USA?
Understanding Records and ConvictionsOnce your fingerprints are on file post an arrest, they remain on file with the police. They remain a permanent feature of your Criminal Record even if you're acquitted and found not guilty.
Does your criminal record clear after 7 years?
The Seven Year RuleUnder federal law, the consumer reporting agencies cannot report an arrest that is over seven years old. However, they may report a conviction no matter how old it is.
How reliable is fingerprint analysis?
How long do criminal records last?
If the person was 18 years of age or older at the time of the offense (i.e. legally considered to be an adult), then the conviction will be expunged from their record 11 years after the conviction date (not the offense date).How do I access my FBI fingerprint results?
Visit a local IdentoGO Centers, securely provide your fingerprints which we will submit electronically to the FBI. A link will be emailed to you to safely access your Federal background check results.How long are fingerprints good for in PA?
​Fingerprint Processing and StorageAfter five years, the reports are destroyed. Neither PDE or the FBI or IDEMIA stores an applicant's fingerprints. If an applicant is required to obtain a new report, the applicant must be fingerprinted again in order to obtain the report.