AZDPS Clearance Card Process

Complete Your Arizona DPS Clearance Application

Arizona DPS website: https://www.azdps.gov/services/public/fingerprint

To begin your Arizona DPS clearance application, visit the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s Fingerprint Clearance Card page. Select the link for the Public Services Portal. You can either create a new individual account or sign in to your existing account. From the top menu, select 'Services,' then click on the 'Fingerprint Clearance Card' tile. Next, choose 'Apply for a Card/Request a Replacement,' followed by 'Apply for a New Clearance Card.' If you are renewing, make sure to select the appropriate renewal option. 

You will then need to select the card type and the reason or statute required for your situation, as DPS cannot choose these for you. Fill out all requested personal information and review your application before electronically signing it. After completing your Arizona DPS clearance application, proceed to submit the application and make the payment through the portal.

After you submit your application, check your PSP Message Center for a message containing your DPS Reference Number and fingerprint-submission options. Opt for the paper fingerprint card to facilitate this in-office event. Ensure you save, print, or clearly write down your Reference Number to bring to your appointment.

What to Bring to Your Appointment:

- Your DPS Reference Number (usually starts with a "P")

- A valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID

- Payment for fingerprinting services

During your appointment, I will scan your fingerprints, complete the required fingerprint-verification affidavit, and seal the fingerprint card and affidavit together in an envelope. This sealed envelope will be returned to you for mailing or delivering to AZDPS for processing. Our equipment electronically scans your fingers and then prints the fingerprint images onto a physical FD-258 card. That is digital/Live Scan captured on FBI Appendix F-certified equipment and software, but it is not electronically uploaded for submission.

**Important:** Do not open the sealed envelope. DPS may reject fingerprint cards that are not accompanied by the correct affidavit and properly sealed.

If Sending Payment with a Paper Application:

Pay the DPS fingerprint background check fee using one of the following methods:

- Complete and pay the application online, then bring your reference number to your appointment, or send it in.

- Money order

- Cashier’s check

- Business Check

Make payable to: Arizona Department of Public Safety. Note that personal checks or cash are NOT accepted.

Mailing Your Packet:

The fingerprinter must fill out an affidavit and seal the following items in one envelope:

- AZDPS Affidavit

- Original fingerprint cards (do not fold)

- Completed application form (if using a paper application)

- Payment (money order or cashier’s check)

Mail the packet to:

Arizona Department of Public Safety

Applicant Clearance Card Team

P.O. Box 18390

Phoenix, AZ 85005-8390

Wait for Processing:

Processing time can take up to 4–8 weeks, depending on DPS workload. For more information, visit https://psp.azdps.gov/

**Tips:**

✅ Use black ink on all forms.

✅ Ensure all information is clear and legible.

✅ Do not bend or fold the fingerprint card.

✅ Keep a copy of your money order/cashier’s check receipt for your records.

✅ If the card is rejected due to poor quality prints, you will need to re-submit a new card.

For those seeking additional services, consider utilizing mobile notary Arizona for notary assistance with your documents.