02/19/2025
GEORGIA'S EVOLVING FINGERPRINTING LANDSCAPE: ANOTHER TRANSITION, ANOTHER TERMINATED CONTRACT.
As of January 30, 2025, Georgia has yet again transitioned its state fingerprinting contract—this time from Fieldprint to IDEMIA’s Identogo. This marks the third nationwide fingerprinting company in just three years to be granted exclusive rights to conduct fingerprint-based background checks for state licensing, employment, and other regulated purposes.
While change is expected in any industry, Georgia’s closed contract system for fingerprinting continues to limit options for applicants and small businesses alike. The constant turnover of providers creates uncertainty for individuals needing fingerprinting services, while independent businesses, like Macon LiveScan Services, are left out of opportunities to serve their own communities.
A Recurring Pattern: From Gemalto to Fieldprint to Identogo
For those who remember, Thales Gemalto was once Georgia’s contracted fingerprinting provider before Fieldprint took over in May 2023. This transition led to disruptions, with several Gemalto fingerprinting sites shutting down before Fieldprint locations were fully operational. Now, less than two years later, Georgia has once again switched to a different provider—this time, Identogo.
Each transition comes with confusion for applicants, delayed appointment availability, and lost business for local service providers. It’s clear that Georgia is running out of nationwide fingerprinting companies to contract with, raising the question:
Is it time to reconsider this closed contract system?
The Case for Independent Fingerprinting Providers:
Many states do not have a single closed contract provider. Instead, they certify independent fingerprinting businesses, allowing local service providers to offer state-approved fingerprinting. This approach benefits:
1. Consumers – More fingerprinting locations mean greater convenience and reduced wait times.
2. Small Businesses – Local fingerprinting companies can contribute to their state’s economic growth.
3. Regulatory Agencies – A broader provider network can ensure consistent service without abrupt transitions.
A Better Path Forward:
Rather than cycling through large, nationwide fingerprinting companies every few years, Georgia should consider opening the market to independent fingerprinting businesses that meet state standards. This would increase accessibility, reduce service disruptions, and create economic opportunities within the state.
At Macon LiveScan Services, we remain committed to providing high-quality fingerprinting solutions, including Florida Live Scan, FBI Background Checks, Out-of-State Fingerprinting, and more. We hope that Georgia will eventually allow businesses like ours to play a role in fingerprinting for state licensing and employment purposes.
What do you think? Should Georgia open up fingerprinting to independent providers? Let’s discuss in the comments!