Electronic Fingerprint Processing

Member firms continue to submit hardcopy fingerprint cards to FINRA, however, the cards are no longer mailed to the FBI for processing and the FBI results are no longer returned to FINRA via mail. Instead, an interface between FINRA and the FBI has been created to allow this information to be exchanged electronically through the use of high-speed scanners and FBI certified hardware and software. EFP replaces the existing manual process with a high-speed electronic transmission of fingerprint cards to the FBI and electronic receipt of FBI dispositions for automatic uploading into Web CRD®. Member firms should receive the FBI results electronically via specified queues in Web CRD in three (3) business days or less.

 

FINRA’s fingerprint processing upgrade to Electronic Fingerprint Processing launched several process, system and fee changes. Details regarding each can be viewed via the hyperlinks below.

 

• FINRA Security Frequently Asked Questions 
• Registration Status
• Fingerprint Statuses
• FBI Name Check (NMCK) for Illegible Fingerprints
• Criminal History Record Information
• Report/Queue Enhancements
• Fingerprint Card Fees
• Electronic Fingerprint Processing Notice to Members 03-41

 

Changes for FINRA include:

 

• Elimination of manual entry of fingerprint receipt statuses into Web CRD and scanning of FBI results (dispositions).
• Use of high speed batch scanners to scan and digitize the hard copy fingerprint cards using FBI certified hardware and software.
• Use of high-speed transmission of the electronic fingerprint records to the FBI.
• Receipt of electronic FBI results (dispositions) that are automatically uploaded into Web CRD.
   

Benefits to Member Firms include:

 

• Turnaround time for processing fingerprint cards reduced from 4-6 weeks to 3 business days or less.
• Fingerprint statuses available in Web CRD for registration approvals within days.
• Improved tracking of an individual’s registration status in connection with the fingerprint card process through a new registration status of "Approved Pending Results" and a new fingerprint status of "COMP" for individuals with CHRI (to be applied when Disclosure Review completes its review).
• Expedited identification of individuals with criminal disclosures, and potential reductions in recruitment and training costs.
   

As part of Electronic Fingerprint Processing, firm, who so choose, can become certified by FINRA and replace hard copy fingerprint submissions to FINRA with the electronic submission of fingerprints (i.e., fingerprint images) under FINRA's Electronic Fingerprint Submission (EFS) Program.

 

For questions regarding Electronic Fingerprint Processing, please contact the Gateway Call Center at (301) 869-6699.