A fingerprint clearance card is issued by the Arizona Department of Public Safety after a criminal history check. Arizona requires it for many caregiving and healthcare positions, and it sits with your other nursing credentials.
What is a fingerprint clearance card?
Documentation that you cleared a state and federal criminal history check. You apply through the Department of Public Safety, get fingerprinted at an approved location, and receive a card if nothing disqualifying appears. Arizona treats it as a portable clearance rather than making every employer run its own check, so the card travels with you between positions.
Level One or standard, which do you need?
Arizona issues 2 versions and they are not interchangeable. The standard card covers many positions. The Level One card applies to roles involving closer contact with vulnerable people and carries a stricter list of disqualifying offenses. Caregiving and healthcare roles frequently require Level One, so confirm which the position asks for before applying.
How long does it last?
Six years from issue, long enough that most people forget the date entirely. Note it somewhere you will actually see it. Renewal runs through the Department of Public Safety, and starting before the card expires avoids a gap where Arizona shifts close to you.
What if something on your record is disqualifying?
There is a process rather than a dead end. Arizona's Board of Fingerprinting reviews requests for a good cause exception, which can allow a card to be issued despite an offense that would otherwise disqualify. It takes time and documentation, so if you expect a problem, start early rather than assuming the answer is no.
Adding it to your profile
Upload the card itself, showing your name, the card number, and the expiration date.
- Tap Menu in the top left of the Nursa app.
- Select Profile.
- Scroll to the Credentials section.
- Tap Add your Credential.
- Upload your document as a PDF, WORD, JPG, or PNG.
Sign up as a clinician and get the card on file, since Arizona shifts depend on it.
