Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Cards & Good Cause Exceptions
Many Arizona jobs require a fingerprint clearance card. If a record blocks yours, a Good Cause Exception can save it.
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What Is a Fingerprint Clearance Card in Arizona?
Quick answer: A fingerprint clearance card is required for many Arizona jobs, childcare, healthcare, education, and more. A criminal record can trigger a denial, but certain offenses are only “precluding” while others allow a Good Cause Exception hearing under A.R.S. § 41-619.55, where you show you are safe to work despite the record. Sealing or setting aside the underlying offense also strengthens your case.
Check If You Qualify
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What It Does (and Doesn’t Do)
✓ It DOES
- Explains which offenses block a fingerprint clearance card
- Shows when a Good Cause Exception hearing is available
- Pairs with set-aside and sealing to strengthen your application
- Helps you get back to work in regulated fields
✗ It DOES NOT
- A set-aside alone does not guarantee a card
- Does not remove offenses the legislature made permanently precluding
- Is decided by the Board of Fingerprinting, not the criminal court
- Does not apply to jobs that don’t require a card
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The Statute, in Plain Terms
The Arizona Board of Fingerprinting issues clearance cards. Some offenses are “precluding” and cause an automatic denial, but for many of those you can request a Good Cause Exception under A.R.S. § 41-619.55. At the hearing you present evidence of rehabilitation, and the Board decides whether to issue the card anyway. Importantly, DUIs are generally not precluding offenses for a clearance card. Sealing or setting aside the offense first can meaningfully improve your odds.
Who Qualifies
If your card was denied because of a precluding offense, you can usually request a Good Cause Exception, unless the offense is one the law makes permanently disqualifying. Strong applications pair the hearing with a set-aside or sealing of the underlying case and clear evidence of rehabilitation. We prepare the packet and represent you at the hearing.
The Process, Step by Step
- Identify why the card was denied and whether the offense is precluding.
- Request a Good Cause Exception hearing with the Board.
- Strengthen the record with a set-aside or sealing and rehabilitation proof.
- Present your case at the hearing.
- The Board issues the card on a good-cause finding.
We handle every step so you never guess at a form or deadline. Call 623-321-4699 for a free record review.
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Arizona Fingerprint Clearance FAQs
What is a fingerprint clearance card in Arizona?
It is a card issued by the Board of Fingerprinting that many jobs, childcare, healthcare, and education, require. A criminal record can trigger a denial.
What is a Good Cause Exception in Arizona?
It is a hearing under A.R.S. 41-619.55 where you show you are safe to work despite a precluding offense, so the Board issues a clearance card anyway.
Is a DUI a precluding offense for a fingerprint clearance card?
Generally no. DUIs are typically not precluding offenses for a clearance card, though other convictions can be.
Does a set-aside get me a fingerprint clearance card?
Not by itself, but it helps. Pairing a set-aside or sealing with a Good Cause Exception hearing strengthens your application significantly.
Who decides fingerprint clearance card appeals in Arizona?
The Arizona Board of Fingerprinting, not the criminal court. That is why a Good Cause Exception is an administrative hearing.
Can I get a clearance card with a felony in Arizona?
Often yes, through a Good Cause Exception, unless the offense is permanently precluding. We assess your specific offense and build the case.
How long does a Good Cause Exception take in Arizona?
It varies by the Board’s calendar, typically a few months from request to decision. We handle the filing and the hearing.
What helps my fingerprint clearance card chances?
A set-aside or sealing of the offense, proof of rehabilitation, steady employment, and a well-prepared Good Cause Exception packet.
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We serve all of Maricopa County and the surrounding area, with free, confidential consultations 24/7 by phone and in-person meetings at either office by appointment.
Case Results Disclaimer: The results described on this page are based on specific facts and circumstances and do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome in any future case. Every case is different. Past results do not guarantee future results. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this page or submitting a contact form until a written fee agreement has been signed. Tamou Law Group, PLLC is licensed to practice law in the State of Arizona. This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.