SF Form 87 Fingerprint Chart: How to Complete (2026 Guide) – If you’re applying for a U.S. federal government position, military role, contractor job, or any position requiring a security clearance or background investigation, you will likely need to complete SF Form 87, officially known as the Fingerprint Chart. This standardized hard-copy fingerprint card is submitted to the FBI to conduct a national criminal history check as part of your suitability or fitness determination.
The latest revision (January 2025) remains the required version for many agencies, with DCSA (Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency) mandating its use for hard-card submissions starting in 2026 in specific cases.
What Is SF 87 Fingerprint Chart?
SF 87 is a U.S. government fingerprint card (Stock Number: 7540-00-634-4037) used primarily for federal civilian employees, applicants, military personnel, and volunteers. It captures rolled and plain impressions of all ten fingers along with personal identifying information.
Agencies use it when electronic fingerprinting (Live Scan) is not feasible. The completed card is forwarded to the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division, where your prints are checked against national databases for any criminal records.
Key purposes include:
- Federal employment or retention decisions
- Security clearance eligibility (national security positions)
- Public trust or non-sensitive positions
- Access to government facilities and systems
- Contractor suitability determinations (in some cases)
It is authorized under Executive Order 13869 and related authorities such as E.O. 10450.
SF 87 vs. FD-258: Which One Do You Need?
Many people confuse the SF 87 with the more common FD-258 fingerprint card:
- SF 87 — Primarily for federal civilian employees, certain military, and volunteers. It is the preferred or required card for many OPM/DCSA-related background investigations.
- FD-258 — Commonly used for contractors, private sector licensing, and some federal contractor positions.
DCSA currently accepts both in many cases but is transitioning toward stricter acceptance of the January 2025 SF 87 version for hard-copy submissions. Always confirm with your agency or HR contact which card is required. Some agencies explicitly direct federal employees to use SF 87 and contractors to use FD-258.
Who Needs to Complete SF Form 87?
You will typically need an SF 87 if you are:
- Applying for a U.S. federal job (GS positions, etc.)
- Seeking or renewing a security clearance
- A federal contractor or applicant in certain situations
- A volunteer or in a position requiring long-term access to government systems/facilities
- Undergoing a background investigation for suitability or fitness
Note: Electronic fingerprinting is preferred whenever possible. Hard-copy cards like the SF 87 are used as a backup when electronic submission isn’t available.
How to Obtain and Complete SF 87 Fingerprint Chart?
- Get the Official Card
U.S. Government departments and agencies can order SF 87 cards through GSA Global Supply or GSA Advantage (Stock # 7540-00-634-4037). Contractors usually need agency sponsorship. Do not use outdated versions—previous editions may be unusable. - Fill Out the Personal Information Blocks (Before Fingerprinting)
Use black ink and print clearly. Required fields typically include:- Last, First, Middle Name
- Aliases / AKA (write “None” if applicable)
- Social Security Number
- Date of Birth
- Place of Birth
- Sex, Race, Height, Weight, Eye Color, Hair Color
- Residence Address
- Employer / Agency Name and Address
- Reason Fingerprinted (e.g., “Federal Employment – Security Clearance”)
- Signature of Person Fingerprinted
Tip: Complete these sections before getting fingerprinted. Some locations seal the card immediately after rolling prints.
- Get Fingerprinted
Visit an authorized location that can process hard-copy cards (local police department, sheriff’s office, approved fingerprinting service, or agency-specific site). Ask them to follow the Instructions for Obtaining Classifiable Fingerprints printed on the back of the SF 87. This includes proper rolling technique for each finger and simultaneous plain impressions of the four fingers on each hand.Poor quality prints are a common reason for rejection and delays. - Submission
Your agency or HR will provide mailing instructions. For DCSA cases, hard cards are often sent to: Attn: e-QIP Rapid Response Team
DCSA-FIPC
PO Box 618
Boyers, PA 16018Multiple sets of prints are sometimes recommended to avoid resubmission.
Tips to Avoid Common Rejection Reasons
- Use only the current January 2025 revision.
- Ensure all fingerprint impressions are clear, complete, and not smudged.
- Do not leave required fields blank.
- Match information exactly with your SF-86, SF-85, or job application.
- Have the official taking the prints sign and date the card.
Downloadable Resources (Official)
The provided links from Air Force e-Publishing offer supporting physical and epub documentation related to fingerprinting procedures:
- Physical PDF: https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/etc/physical.pdf
- EPUB version: https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/etc/physical.epub
Always cross-reference with your specific agency’s guidance, as procedures can vary slightly.
For the official GSA form page and ordering information, visit: https://www.gsa.gov/reference/forms/fingerprint-chart
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get fingerprinted electronically instead of using the SF 87 card?
Yes—electronic submission is strongly preferred and faster. Hard cards are only for situations where Live Scan isn’t possible.
How long does it take for FBI fingerprint results?
Processing times vary, but electronic submissions are generally quicker. Delays often occur with poor-quality hard cards.
Is there a fee?
It depends on the location and your agency. Some federal applicants are not reimbursed; check your HR or security office policy.
What if my prints are rejected?
You may need to submit a new set. Agencies sometimes request two or three sets initially to reduce this risk.
Final Advice for USA Applicants
Completing the SF Form 87 Fingerprint Chart correctly is a critical early step in your federal hiring or clearance process. Take it seriously—errors or poor prints can delay your entire application by weeks or months.
Always:
- Confirm the exact card and revision with your sponsoring agency or HR.
- Use a reputable fingerprinting location experienced with government hard cards.
- Double-check all biographical data for accuracy.
If you are pursuing federal employment or a security clearance in 2026, start this process as soon as your agency requests it.
Need the official form? Contact your agency security or HR office, or order through GSA channels if eligible.
This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available U.S. government sources as of 2025–2026. Policies can change—verify directly with your agency, DCSA, or OPM for the most current requirements.
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