Q&A

Q:  The Security Badge Office already has my driver’s license and birth certificate on file.  Do I have to bring them in again? 

A:  Yes.  Every time an applicant comes to the Badge Office to conduct a fingerprint or badge transaction, they must bring with them original documents which verify their identity and employment status PLUS a photocopy of those documents.

Q:  How early can I renew my badge?

A:  There are no restrictions regarding early renewals so you can come in as early as you like as long as you have all of the required documents for processing.

Q:  How can I replace a lost badge?

A:  First, you must ensure that the badge is deactivated by reporting it lost to the Badge Office. Secondly, contact your company to have them complete all appropriate forms for re-issuance. Keep in mind that you are eligible to fingerprint and receive replacement badge on the same visit if you go to the Badge Office within 14 days from the initial break in access for lost / stolen badges.

Q:  How much does it cost to get a badge?

A:  There is currently no direct cost to employees for any of the badge process. However, the company is charged $100 for any badge that is not returned to the Badge Office.

Q:  Can I make an appointment if I am short on time?

A:  Yes. Appointments are available at http://sbo.lawa.org/baos for applicants who want to avoid any possible long lines.

Q:  My current LAX badge is expired. Can I come in and receive a new LAX badge?

A:  No.  You must first submit to and clear a fingerprint-based criminal history records check (CHRC) and a security threat assessment (STA) before receiving another LAX badge.

Q:  Can everyone who works for my organization receive the Escort Icon? 

A:  No.  Each organization must limit the number of individuals who receive the escort icon.  You may not grant escort privileges to more than 50% of your badged employees. 

Q:  I have an escort icon on my badge.  Can I escort employees who have been fingerprinted, but have not yet received their LAX badge or Terminal ID card? 

A:  No.  Individuals who have been fingerprinted and have not yet cleared or have not received their LAX badge or Terminal ID Card are NOT eligible for escorting.  This is a direct violation of LAWA’s Escort Policy.

Q:  I am a Certified Trainer and must re-train some of my employees.  Can I mail them the DVD instead of conducting the training in person?

A:  No.  You must always conduct the training in person and have all attendees sign a roster.  You must never mail the DVD which contains security sensitive information.  Always keep security sensitive information in a secure location and NEVER share this information with individuals who do not have a need to know or with individuals who have not cleared a criminal history records check and security threat assessment.

Q:  Can I badge individuals who receive a 1099 from my company? 

A:  No.  Individuals who receive a 1099 are contract workers and should not be badged under your organization.  You should only badge individuals who receive a W2 from your organization.

Q:  What do I need to do once I clear my fingerprints?

A:  You must contact your company to coordinate airport security training, obtain a completed security badge application and copy of your fingerprint results in order to apply for a security badge. The security badge application contains critical information that will determine what color badge and access levels you will receive.

Q:  Do I have to wait in line to pick up my badge?

A:  Yes. We need to verify that you have met all badge requirements at one of the counter stations which will require you to wait in line. Once all requirements have been verified and all information has been updated on your file, we will create your badge and print.

Q:  Is there any public transportation that can take me to the Badge Office?

A:  No.  Unfortunately there is no form of public transportation that travels to the west side of the airport.