FD-258 Fingerprint Card: The Complete Guide to Obtaining, Completing, and Converting Your Fingerprints

The FD-258 fingerprint card is a standardized form used by the FBI and numerous government agencies for collecting and recording fingerprint impressions. This 8" x 8" card serves as the primary document for submitting fingerprints for background checks, licensing applications, and various federal processes.

What Is an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?

Originally developed by the FBI, the FD-258 fingerprint card has become the universally accepted format for fingerprint submission across multiple government agencies, including:

• Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)
• Immigration and Naturalization Services
• State licensing boards
• Professional certification bodies
• Security clearance offices

The card features designated spaces for all ten fingerprints, along with fields for personal information that helps identify the individual being fingerprinted.

Who Needs an FD-258 Fingerprint Card?

Firearms-Related Applications

• NFA applications for suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and other regulated items
• Federal Firearms License (FFL) applications
• ATF Form 4 and Form 1 submissions

Professional Licensing

• Healthcare professionals (nurses, doctors, pharmacists)
• Teachers and educational staff
• Financial industry professionals
• Security personnel and private investigators

Immigration and Security Clearances

• Visa and green card processing
• Naturalization proceedings
• Government contractor positions
• Federal employment applications

How to Obtain FD-258 Fingerprint Cards

Obtaining blank FD-258 fingerprint cards is straightforward with several options:

• Local Police Departments: Many stations keep cards in stock and may provide fingerprinting services
• Sheriff's Offices: Frequently maintain supplies and offer services
• Gun Stores and Firearm Dealers: Licensed dealers often stock cards for NFA customers
• Online Retailers: Amazon and specialty fingerprinting supply websites
• UPS Stores: Many locations offer notary and fingerprinting services

Step-by-Step Guide to Filling Out the FD-258 Card

Required Information Fields

• Name (NAM): Full legal name as Last, First, Middle
• Aliases (AKA): Any other names used, including maiden names
• Residence Address: Current physical home address
• Date of Birth: MM/DD/YYYY format
• Place of Birth: City, state, and country if foreign-born
• Social Security Number: Optional for some applications
• Sex, Race, Height, Weight: Use standard FBI codes
• Eye and Hair Color: Standard abbreviations (BLK, BLU, BRO, etc.)
• ORI Code: Provided in your application instructions

Writing Best Practices

• Use black ink for all written entries
• Print legibly in block letters
• Avoid corrections, cross-outs, or white-out
• If you make a mistake, use a new card

Rolled vs. Flat Fingerprint Impressions

Rolled Fingerprints

Rolled fingerprints capture the full nail-to-nail friction ridge detail and appear in the upper portion of the card in ten individual boxes.

1. Apply a thin, even layer of ink to the fingertip
2. Position the finger at a 45-degree angle with the nail edge touching the card
3. Roll smoothly from one nail edge to the other in a single motion
4. Maintain consistent, light pressure throughout
5. Complete the roll without lifting

Flat (Plain) Impressions

Flat impressions appear at the bottom of the card and serve as verification against the rolled prints.

1. Apply a thin layer of ink to all four fingertips simultaneously
2. Place all four fingers flat on the designated area
3. Press down with even, moderate pressure
4. Lift straight up without sliding
5. Repeat for thumbs in designated blocks

Common Errors That Cause FD-258 Card Rejections

Fingerprint Quality Issues

• Smeared or Smudged Prints: Movement during printing or excessive ink
• Too Light or Faint: Insufficient ink or pressure
• Over-Inked Prints: Excessive ink fills in ridge detail
• Incomplete Prints: Not rolling fully from nail edge to nail edge
• Double Impressions: Slipping or rolling twice over the same area

Documentation Errors

• Blank required fields
• Incorrect ORI code
• Misspelled names
• Missing signature
• Wrong card version

Physical Card Issues

• Folded, creased, or torn cards
• Cards with correction fluid or alterations
• Photocopies (original cards required)
• Water damage or staining

Converting Your FD-258 to EFT Format with SlapEFT

Electronic Fingerprint Transmission (EFT) is a digital format that allows fingerprints to be submitted electronically rather than through physical mail. Converting your completed FD-258 card to EFT format offers significant advantages.

Benefits of EFT Conversion

• Faster Processing: Electronic submissions typically process faster than mailed paper cards
• Reduced Errors: Digital format eliminates physical card damage during shipping
• Convenience: Submit from anywhere without visiting a post office
• Backup Copy: Digital files can be stored and reused for future applications
• Cost Savings: No certified mail or shipping fees

The SlapEFT Conversion Process

1. Scan Your Card: Create a high-resolution digital image (300 DPI minimum)
2. Upload to SlapEFT: Submit through our secure online portal
3. Professional Conversion: Converted to FBI-compliant EFT format
4. Quality Verification: Checked to ensure submission standards
5. Receive Your EFT File: Download your ready-to-submit file

Conclusion

The FD-258 fingerprint card is essential for countless background check processes. By understanding how to properly obtain, complete, and submit your fingerprint card, you can avoid costly delays and rejections.

Remember these key points for success:

• Obtain cards from reliable sources and keep extras on hand
• Fill out all information accurately using black ink
• Use quality fingerprint ink and proper rolling technique
• Verify print quality before submission
• Consider converting to EFT format for faster processing