What is the difference between red and blue fingerprint cards?

The distinction between red and blue fingerprint cards lies in their specific applications within the criminal justice and background check systems. The red fingerprint card is designated for criminal records, typically used for individuals who have been arrested or are already involved in the criminal justice system. Conversely, the blue fingerprint card is used for applicants, usually pertaining to individuals undergoing background checks for employment, licensing, or other purposes that do not relate to criminal activity.

This differentiation is essential for law enforcement and agencies to efficiently process and categorize fingerprint submissions, ensuring that records are accurately maintained based on the context of the individual's interaction with the law.