Electronic Fingerprint Submission (EFS) Information

FBI Fingerprint Reuse Policy Update – No Action at This Time
The FBI recently issued an updated fingerprint reuse policy in its January 2026 Outsourcing News newsletter. This update, referred to as the "Reuse Information Letter," was distributed to Authorized Recipients (ARs) and is available here for reference.

What This Means for Your Firm
FINRA is currently reviewing this update and consulting with the FBI on questions related to the Authorized Recipient approval process required for fingerprint reuse. 

No Changes to Current Procedures at This Time
Firms should continue following existing FINRA Fingerprint Program requirements. Only fingerprints collected and submitted through the FINRA Fingerprint Program to satisfy the requirements under 15 USC 78q(f)(2) are acceptable.

For Firms Using Electronic Fingerprint Service (EFS) Providers
EFS providers have been instructed to maintain current FINRA Fingerprint Program procedures until further notice. No action on reuse is to be taken at this time.

Next Steps
FINRA will provide additional information and guidance once our review is complete and next steps are determined. Please monitor FINRA.org for updates.

Questions?
[email protected]

On This Page

EFS Instructions

Broker-dealer firms and funding portals can submit fingerprints electronically to First Advantage Biometrics (formerly known as Sterling Identity), FINRA’s designated fingerprint provider, by following the steps below.

1. Determine how your firm will submit fingerprints

There are two options for electronic fingerprinting:

  1. Send individuals to a participating EFS vendor’s location. The vendor will transmit fingerprints electronically on behalf of your firm to Sterling. Firms that use this option must contact the EFS vendor to use the vendor’s services and locations.
     
    OR
     
  2. Purchase or lease electronic fingerprinting equipment provided by Sterling or another fingerprint equipment provider (e.g., Fulcrum Biometrics, LLC). Your firm will fingerprint associated individuals on-site and submit fingerprints directly to Sterling.

FINRA does not endorse any EFS vendor and EFS vendors offer different options and location availability. Please confirm service terms and conditions directly with the EFS vendor. 

2. Select an EFS vendor

Contact an EFS vendor that can accommodate your submission preference.  A list of EFS vendors actively submitting fingerprints to the FINRA Fingerprint Program are listed at the bottom of this page. These EFS vendors work with Sterling to process fingerprints on FINRA’s behalf. If your firm selects a certified vendor that will submit fingerprints from a vendor’s location, then you do not need to notify FINRA or Sterling.

EFS vendors not listed below must complete an integration process with Sterling before they can submit fingerprints. For additional information, contact Sterling at [email protected].

EFS Vendors

The certified EFS vendors listed below have entered into an agreement with Sterling under which they agree to collect fingerprints solely for the purpose of satisfying an organization’s obligation under Section 17(f)(2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, (15 USC 78q(f)(2)), and Exchange Rule 17f-2 thereunder, as amended, for the FINRA Fingerprint Program (Program). The EFS vendors listed below currently submit fingerprints to FINRA. The vendors must comply with the requirements of the Program and requirements and standards of the FBI, including the FBI Criminal Justice Information Services Security Policy (Policy).

FINRA will update this list as new vendors participate. Please contact EFS vendors directly with any questions about their services and location availability.