Arizona Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Cards
Fingerprinting Services at the Pima County Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteers
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department Auxiliary Volunteers are proud to provide Identity Verified Prints (IVP) fingerprinting services to the public. IVP cards are issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) and are required for many professional and volunteer positions in Arizona — particularly those in education, healthcare, and public safety.
Our trained volunteers ensure your fingerprints are taken accurately and in compliance with Arizona DPS chain-of-custody requirements, helping you complete your clearance card application as quickly as possible.
New Pricing Effective February 16, 2026:
Single prints: $25.00
Copy of an original: $10.00
Ink prints: $35.00
Hours of Operation
Monday: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. NOTE: Effective 05/04/2026 through 07/31/2026, Monday hours will change from 9AM to 1PM.
Tuesday – Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Closed Holidays
Location: 1650 E. Benson Highway, Tucson, AZ 85714-1758
What Is an IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card?
An Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Clearance Card is a special type of fingerprint clearance card that includes an additional step to verify your identity at the time your fingerprints are taken. This process ensures your identity is confirmed by the fingerprint technician, and that your prints are securely transmitted to DPS following approved chain-of-custody procedures.
DPS uses your fingerprints to conduct state and federal criminal background checks through the Arizona Department of Public Safety and the FBI.
Who Needs an IVP Clearance Card?
IVP clearance cards are required for many individuals working or volunteering in settings where they may have direct contact with children, vulnerable adults, or the public. Common examples include:
- Teachers and education professionals (public, charter, or private schools)
- Student teachers and practicum students at Arizona universities
- School bus drivers and transportation staff
- Childcare providers and early education staff
- Healthcare professionals and clinical interns
- Volunteers or contractors working in schools or youth programs
If you are unsure which card you need, check with your employer, licensing board, or sponsoring agency.
We offer Fingerprinting for Background Checks: Whether you need fingerprints for employment, licensing, or any other official purposes, our trained volunteers ensure precision and compliance with all requirements. We also offer the service for Volunteer Screening: Organizations and agencies can rely on us for thorough fingerprinting services to screen volunteers, ensuring a safe environment for everyone.
IVP vs. Regular Fingerprint Clearance Cards
Note: If you already hold a standard clearance card and are now required to have an IVP clearance card, you must apply for a new IVP card.
Identity Verified Prints (IVP) vs. Standard Clearance Card
Type of Card |
Identity Verified Prints (IVP) |
Standard Clearance Card |
|---|---|---|
| Identity Verification | Verified by technician at time of fingerprinting | Not required |
| Chain of Custody | Must be maintained — technician sends directly to DPS | May be mailed by applicant |
| Common Uses | Teachers, student teachers, childcare, school contractors | Nursing assistants, real estate, private security, other professions |
| Issued By | Arizona Department of Public Safety | Arizona Department of Public Safety |
| Validity | 6 years | 6 years |
How to Apply for an IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Visit the Arizona DPS Public Services Portal and choose:
“Fingerprint Clearance Card” → “Apply for a New Clearance Card” → “IVP.”
Select the reason that applies to your role (for example, “Teacher Certification” or “Public/Charter School”).
Step 2: Pay the Application Fee
The standard DPS fee is $67.00 (plus any processing fees charged by the fingerprint provider). Payment is handled directly through the DPS portal.
Step 3: Get Fingerprinted
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) to your fingerprint appointment. When you come to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Auxiliary Volunteers, our technicians will:
- Verify your identity and ensure the information matches your DPS application.
- Capture your fingerprints electronically or on the approved fingerprint card.
- Maintain proper chain of custody by sending the fingerprint card directly to DPS.
Note: DPS rules prohibit the technician from returning the fingerprint card to you once it’s completed.
Hours of Operation
Monday: 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. NOTE: Effective 05/04/2026 through 07/31/2026, Monday hours will change from 9AM to 1PM.
Tuesday - Friday: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Closed Holidays
Location: 1650 E. Benson Highway, Tucson, AZ 85714-1758
Step 4: Wait for Processing and Card Delivery
DPS will review your application, conduct background checks, and mail your card once approved. Processing typically takes 2–6 weeks, depending on volume and background review.
Renewal and Replacement Cards
- IVP cards are valid for six (6) years from the date of issuance.
- You can apply for renewal through the same DPS portal before your card expires.
- If your card is lost or damaged, you can request a replacement directly from DPS.
Chain of Custody and Legal Compliance
The Arizona Department of Public Safety requires a verified chain of custody for all IVP fingerprint cards. That means once your prints are taken, they must be sent directly from the fingerprinting agency to DPS — they cannot be handled by the applicant.
The Pima County Sheriff’s Department Auxiliary Volunteers strictly follows DPS procedures and retains chain-of-custody documentation in accordance with Arizona Administrative Code requirements.
Denials and Appeals
If DPS denies or suspends your clearance card, you may be eligible to request a Good Cause Exception through the Arizona Board of Fingerprinting. Details and forms are available at: azbof.gov
How To Maximize Fingerprint Quality
- Regularly moisturize your hands 2/3 days before having your prints taken
- Minimize hand damage
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid hand sanitizer
- Avoid harsh chemicals
- RELAX, we are all very friendly volunteers and want to capture the best set of fingerprints possible.
Additional Resources
- Arizona Department of Public Safety: azdps.gov/fcc
- Arizona Board of Fingerprinting: azbof.gov
- Arizona Department of Education (Educator Certification): azed.gov/educator-certification/fingerprint-clearance-card-ivp
Disclaimer
This information is provided by the Pima County Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteers for public convenience. All fingerprinting and background checks are administered by the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). Requirements are subject to change; applicants should confirm details with DPS before applying.