Before you can be authorized for Badge Enrollment, you are required to undergo Prescreening, where DPSAC will determine an individual's investigative requirements. This is done by collecting​​​ information and fingerprints​​ to determine the individual's eligibility to possess a U.S. Government credential to access NIH facilities or information systems.

DPSAC uses a Crossmatch fingerprinting machine to collect 'Prescreening' fingerprints. This will occur when applicants must provide their fingerprints for Prescreening or eApp background investigation, but is not yet ready for PIV/RLA Badge Enrollment in the NED system. This may also occur when Badge Enrollment is not required (a sample scenario is when an individual already has a badge and needs fingerprinting for an investigation update). These Crossmatch fingerprints will allow DPSAC to obtain the FBI criminal history repository check needed to complete Prescreening but will not be tied to any badge.

In order to submit your Crossmatch or 'Prescreening' fingerprints, applicants must travel to an NIH PIV Card Issuance Facility (PCIF) to submit Crossmatch fingerprints for Prescreening or background investigation. You may find PCIFs located at the NIH Main Office Location in Building 31 and at Other DPSAC Locations (PCIFs).

You must bring two (2) forms of valid government-issued identification, one of which contains a photo, and both identifications must have your name matched. Visit the FIPS 201-3 PDF​ to view a complete list of approved identification. Please note: It is illegal to use a photograph of any government ID badge. Section 701 of Chapter 33 of Title 18 of the United States Code (USC) covers the unauthorized creation of engravings, photographs, prints, or impressions of official badges, identification cards, and other insignia.