Standard for Friction 

Ridge Examination 

Training Program

Friction Ridge Subcommittee

Physics/Pattern Scientific Area Committee

Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) for Forensic Science
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

OSAC Proposed Standard

Standard for Friction Ridge 

Examination Training Program

Prepared by

Friction Ridge Subcommittee

Organization of Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) for Forensic Science

Version: 1.0

December 2017

Disclaimer:

This document has been developed by the Friction Ridge Subcommittee of the Organization of 

Scientific Area Committees (OSAC) for Forensic Science through a consensus process and 

proposed for further development through a Standard Developing Organization (SDO). This 

document is being made available so that the forensic science community and interested parties 

can consider the recommendations of the OSAC pertaining to applicable forensic science 

practices. The document was developed with input from experts in a broad array of forensic 

science disciplines as well as scientific research, measurement science, statistics, law, and policy.

This document has not been published by a SDO. Its contents are subject to change during the 

standards development process. All stakeholder groups or individuals are strongly encouraged to 

submit comments on this proposed document during the open comment period administered by 

the Academy Standards Board (ASB). 
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

Table of Contents

1. Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 1

2. Scope ................................................................................................................................. 1

3. Terms and Definitions..................................................................................................... 1

4. General Requirements .................................................................................................... 1

4.1. General Training Requirements .................................................................................. 1

4.2. History......................................................................................................................... 2

4.3. Biology ........................................................................................................................ 6

4.4. Introduction to Friction Ridge Impressions................................................................. 7

4.5. Fingerprint Classification .......................................................................................... 13

4.6. Exemplars.................................................................................................................. 14

4.7. Latent Print Processing.............................................................................................. 15

4.8. Examination Method ................................................................................................. 17

4.9. Logic, Probability, and Statistics............................................................................... 19

4.10. Human Factors .......................................................................................................... 22

4.11. Legal Issues............................................................................................................... 24

4.12. Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS)................................................ 30

5. Appendix A: Change Log.............................................................................................. 33
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

1. Introduction

1.1. This document has been developed with the objective of improving the quality and 

consistency of friction ridge examination practices.

1.2. This document is intended to serve as the minimum training standard for friction ridge 

analysts. Forensic Service Providers (FSPs) should develop their training 

manuals/procedures from these minimum standards. Each trainee should have a 

documented training plan with requirements to successfully complete training. Each 

analyst must retain documentation of successful completion of an approved training 

plan.

1.3. This document is not a training program; rather, it is an outline of training modules, 

topics, and content. This document is intended to serve as the minimum training 

standard. Compliance is expected from those organizations performing friction ridge 

examinations. Not all modules are required. Those not required will be explicitly 

identified as such in the module introduction.

1.4. There are Recommended Reading references listed at the end of each module. These 

references are intended as a suggested starting point for the trainee. It is not an 

exhaustive list of possible reading references; additional reading is encouraged.

1.5. In this document, the following verbal forms are used: “shall” indicates a requirement, 

“should” indicates a recommendation; “may” indicates permission; and “can” indicates a 

possibility or capability. 

2. Scope

2.1. This document provides the minimum requirements for a friction ridge examination 

training program from which training manuals/procedures should be developed.

2.2. This document does not provide minimum training objectives or prescriptive lesson 

plans.

3. Terms and Definitions

For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.

3.1. Forensic Service Provider (FSP): A forensic science entity or forensic science 

practitioner providing forensic science services.

4. General Requirements

4.1. General Training Requirements
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.1.1. A new trainee to the discipline shall have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited 

institution. At the time of hire, the trainee shall have 24 semester hours (or 

equivalent) in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) related 

coursework. Note: A degree in a natural or physical science is highly recommended. 

This educational requirement shall be effective 18 months after the official 

publication date of this document.

4.1.2. Instructors and mentors shall have acquired and maintained proficiency for a 

minimum of one year in the topic areas that they instruct. Each agency shall have a 

written policy for selecting qualified instructors and mentors. Note: A certified 

Instructor’s Development course is highly recommended. 

4.1.3. The agency must have a policy to define passing criteria for all tests, practical 

exercises, and verbal assessments. A written training record of these assessments 

must be maintained by the agency for as long as the individual is employed as a 

friction ridge examiner. Ultimately, the trainee must be able to communicate an 

understanding of all the objectives and underlying principles by participating in a 

mock trial (See Legal Issues module).

4.2. History

Friction Ridge Examiners who testify in legal proceedings as expert witnesses are expected 

to have a historical understanding of the science of friction ridge examinations related to 

landmark events, scientific pioneers and their contributions, and the evolution of the friction 

ridge discipline. At a minimum, the trainee should have knowledge of:

4.2.1. Early discoveries and uses of Friction Ridges, e.g.:

4.2.1.1. Trademarks found in ancient pottery

4.2.1.2. Trademarks found in clay used on legal contracts

4.2.1.3. Finger seals used in China for the sealing of documents

4.2.1.4. Deed of a hand mark - Association of a fingermark and an individual’s 

name

4.2.2. Early researchers and their significant contributions to establishing the foundation 

of friction ridge examination prior to the 19th century, e.g.:

4.2.2.1. Nehemiah Grew

4.2.2.2. Thomas Bewick

4.2.2.3. Marcello Malpighi
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.2.2.4. J.C.A. Mayer

4.2.3. Early pioneers and landmark events contributing to the application of friction 

ridge skin for personal identification purposes during the 19th century, e.g.:

4.2.3.1. Johannes E. Purkinje

4.2.3.2. Edmond Locard

4.2.3.3. Inez Whipple

4.2.3.4. Harris Hawthorne Wilder

4.2.3.5. William Herschel

4.2.3.6. Henry Faulds

4.2.3.7. Alphonse Bertillon

4.2.3.8. Francis Galton

4.2.3.9. Edward Richard Henry

4.2.3.10. Juan Vucetich

4.2.3.11. The Rojas Murders

4.2.3.12. The Thompson Receipt

4.2.3.13. Haque & Bose

4.2.3.14. Henry P. DeForest

4.2.3.15. Origins of automated fingerprint identification systems
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.2.4. Modern era pioneers contributing to the scientific understanding and application 

of friction ridge examination for personal identification during the 20th century, 

e.g.:

4.2.4.1. Mary Holland

4.2.4.2. John A. Dondero

4.2.4.3. Harold Cummins

4.2.4.4. Alfred Hale

4.2.4.5. William Babler

4.2.4.6. Michio Okajima

4.2.5. Historically significant people, events, and items contributing to the evolution and 

maturation of the friction ridge discipline, e.g.:

4.2.5.1. 1904 World’s Fair (fingerprint significance)

4.2.5.2. Inspector John Ferrier

4.2.5.3. The Will/William West Case

4.2.5.4. The Belper Committee

4.2.5.5. The Troup Committee

4.2.5.6. Fingerprint Identification of the Deceased

4.2.5.7. FBI Identification Division

4.2.5.8. Sinking of the USS Squalus

4.2.5.9. 1940 Pan American Airliner
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.2.5.10. FBI Disaster Squad

4.2.5.11. IAI Resolutions related to the basis for identification

4.2.5.12. ACE-V

4.2.5.13. Roy Huber

4.2.5.14. David Ashbaugh

4.2.6. Historical biometric classification (body and fingerprints) and their evolutionary 

significance and relationship to one another, e.g.:

4.2.6.1. Nine main groups of fingerprint patterns (Johannes Purkinje)

4.2.6.2. Basic precursor to the Henry Classification system

4.2.6.3. Syllabic System of classifying fingerprints (Henry Faulds)

4.2.6.4. Continued development and evolution of a fingerprint classification 

system

4.2.6.5. Bertillon System of Anthropometry (Alphonse Bertillon)

4.2.6.6. Eleven different body measurements

4.2.6.7. Transition from the Bertillon system to fingerprint classification systems

4.2.6.8. Tripartite Fingerprint Classification System (Francis Galton)

4.2.6.9. Alphabetical enumerations

4.2.6.10. Inclusion into the Bertillonage files at Scotland Yard

4.2.6.11. Argentinian Fingerprint Classification System (Juan Vucetich)

4.2.6.12. Primary and Secondary classifications
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.2.6.13. Argentina’s classification distinction, first to solely use fingerprints

4.2.6.14. Henry Classification System

4.2.6.15. NCIC Classification System

NOTE: Modern classification systems, such as the Henry Classification System and 

the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) system, are included in the 

Fingerprint Classification module.

4.2.7. Recommended Reading:

Ashbaugh, David R. Quantitative-Qualitative Friction Ridge Analysis. Chapter II –

History of Friction Ridge Identification. Boca Raton: CRC Press, 1999

Barnes, Jeffery. The Fingerprint Sourcebook. Chapter 1 – History. National Institute of 

Justice. 2011

4.3. Biology

Friction Ridge Examiners need to have a comprehensive understanding of the two primary 

theories underlying the use of friction ridge impressions as a means of identification: 1) 

friction ridge impressions exhibit discriminating features that can be used to distinguish 

between individuals and 2) the arrangement of friction ridges persists throughout the lifetime 

of an individual. At a minimum, the trainee shall:

4.3.1. Understand the embryology of friction ridge skin and the theoretical basis of the 

discriminability of friction ridge impressions, with specific emphasis on:

4.3.1.1. Embryological development 

4.3.1.2. Volar pad and friction ridge formation and timing

4.3.1.3. Morphogenesis of primary and secondary ridges 

4.3.2. Understand the mechanical structure of friction ridge skin and the theoretical 

basis of the persistence of the friction ridge skin.

4.3.3. Understand the impact of biological distortions on the appearance of friction ridge 

skin, with specific emphasis on:

4.3.3.1. Changes due to the effects of damage (intentional or accidental) 
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.3.3.2. Changes due to the effects of aging 

4.3.3.3. Changes due to occasional features (e.g. warts, wrinkles)

4.3.3.4. Persistency and reproducibility of these biological distortions in 

impressions

4.3.4. Understand the genetic and epigenetic influences on the resulting appearance of 

friction ridge skin, with specific emphasis on:

4.3.4.1. The similarities and differences between friction ridge impressions from 

monozygotic twins 

4.3.4.2. The biological causes that contribute to variability 

4.3.5. Recommended Reading

Champod, Christophe et al. Fingerprints and Other Ridge Skin Impressions (2nd Edition). 

Chapter 1. CRC Press, Boca Raton, 2016 

Babler, William. Embryonic Development of Epidermal Ridges and Their 

Configurations. Birth Defects: Original Article Series. 27(2) 95-112, 1991

Maceo, Alice and Wertheim, Kasey. Friction Ridge Sourcebook. Chapter 2 – Anatomy 

and Physiology of Adult Friction Ridge Skin and Chapter 3 – Embryology and 

Morphology of Friction Ridge Skin. National Institute of Justice. 2011

4.4. Introduction to Friction Ridge Impressions

Friction ridge trainees need to observe and understand the macro and micro levels of datarich friction ridge impressions and how to apply the data during examinations. Macro 

information includes the shapes of impressions based on hand and foot morphology (i.e. size 

and outline of the impressions), flexion creases, patterns, deltas, ridge counts, and dominant 

ridge flows. Micro information includes ridge paths, minutiae, ridge morphology, crease 

morphology, scar morphology, and morphology of other occasional features. 

The trainee shall successfully demonstrate competency for each section prior to progressing 

to the next section. At a minimum, the trainee shall understand the following topics:

4.4.1. Fingerprints

4.4.1.1. Known Fingerprints

4.4.1.1.1. Understand and demonstrate knowledge of the three primary 

pattern types and their distribution in the population
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.4.1.1.2. Understand and demonstrate knowledge of the various subclassifications of fingerprint patterns

4.4.1.1.3. Understand proper distal orientation of fingerprints

4.4.1.1.4. Understand proper left-right determination of fingerprints

4.4.1.1.5. Understand the significance of cores and deltas during comparison

4.4.1.1.6. Understand the significance of ridge counts during comparison

4.4.1.1.7. Understand the significance of micro features during comparison

4.4.1.1.8. Understand and demonstrate the ability to detect variability in 

appearance of known prints from the same and different source 

skin

After the trainee has learned the macro and micro levels of information in rolled 

fingerprints and demonstrated competency in comparing rolled fingerprints, clear 

impressions of fingerprints that bear limited focal points (e.g. core is visible but 

not the delta) shall be compared against rolled fingerprints.

4.4.1.2. Partial Fingerprints

4.4.1.2.1. Be familiar with the general shapes of partial, unknown 

fingerprints

4.4.1.2.2. Understand the significance of available ridge flow information for 

assistance with left-right hand determination

4.4.1.2.3. Understand and demonstrate proper recognition of distal 

orientation of partial fingerprints 

4.4.1.2.4. Understand and demonstrate proper selection of effective target 

groups using macro and micro features

4.4.1.2.5. Understand the significance of available focal points and ridge 

counts to narrow the pool of possible donors

4.4.1.2.6. Understand how to establish search parameters in corresponding 

regions of the known prints

4.4.1.2.7. Understand how to use macro and micro features to formulate 

source conclusions
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.4.1.2.8. Understand and demonstrate the ability to detect variability in 

appearance of impressions of the same and different source skin

After the trainee has demonstrated competency in the comparison of fingerprints 

with limited focal points and ridge counts, clear impressions of the edges and tips 

of fingers shall be compared against fully rolled fingerprints.

4.4.1.3. Tips and Edges of Fingerprints

4.4.1.3.1. Be familiar with the general shapes of impressions from the edges 

and tips of the finger

4.4.1.3.2. Understand the significance of available ridge flow information for 

left-right determination

4.4.1.3.3. Understand and demonstrate proper recognition of distal 

orientation of impressions from the edges and tips of the finger

4.4.1.3.4. Understand how to establish search parameters in corresponding 

regions of the known prints

4.4.1.3.5. Understand how to use macro and micro features to establish 

effective target groups

4.4.1.3.6. Understand how to use macro and micro features to formulate 

source conclusions

4.4.1.3.7. Understand and demonstrate proper recognition of when additional 

known prints are needed to complete comparisons

4.4.1.3.8. Understand and demonstrate the ability to detect variability in 

appearance of impressions of the same and different source skin

4.4.2. Proximal and Medial Phalange Prints

4.4.2.1. Be familiar with the general shapes of impressions from the lower portions 

of the finger

4.4.2.2. Understand the significance of available ridge flow and crease information 

to establish search parameters in corresponding regions of the known 

prints

4.4.2.3. Understand how to use macro and micro features to establish effective 

target groups
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.4.2.4. Understand how to use macro and micro features to formulate source 

conclusions

4.4.2.5. Understand and demonstrate proper recognition of additional known prints 

needed to complete comparisons

4.4.2.6. Understand and demonstrate the ability to detect variability in appearance 

of impressions of the same and different source skin

4.4.3. Palm Prints

4.4.3.1. Full Palm Prints

4.4.3.1.1. Be familiar with the major regions: interdigital, hypothenar, and 

thenar 

4.4.3.1.2. Be familiar with the frequency of patterns in the palm regions

4.4.3.1.3. Be familiar with the frequency and positions of deltas in the palm 

regions

4.4.3.1.4. Be familiar with major ridge flows of the palm regions

4.4.3.1.5. Be familiar with the position and variation of the creases in the 

palms (regular flexion creases, irregular flexion creases and 

secondary creases)

4.4.3.2. Partial Palm Prints

4.4.3.2.1. Understand the significance of available ridge flow information for 

left-right determination of palm prints

4.4.3.2.2. Understand and demonstrate proper recognition of the shapes of 

partial prints from each palm region

4.4.3.2.3. Understand and demonstrate proper recognition of distal 

orientation of partial palm prints

4.4.3.2.4. Understand how to use macro features to determine anatomical 

region

4.4.3.2.5. Understand how to use macro features to determine distal 

orientation
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.4.3.2.6. Understand and demonstrate the ability to properly determine 

when to widen search parameters to include alternative 

handedness, anatomical regions, or orientations

Once the trainee has become proficient in determining the anatomical region, 

distal orientation, and handedness of palm prints, the next set of practical 

exercises shall include comparison of partial palm prints to exemplar palm prints. 

The trainee shall also learn to recognize when additional exemplar prints are 

needed to complete the comparisons.

4.4.3.3. Palm Print Comparisons

4.4.3.3.1. Understand and demonstrate the ability to use minutiae to establish 

efficient search parameters

4.4.3.3.2. Understand and demonstrate when to widen search parameters 

(alternative handedness, anatomical regions, or orientations)

4.4.3.3.3. Understand and demonstrate how to use macro and micro features 

to establish effective target groups

4.4.3.3.4. Demonstrate the use of macro and micro features to associate 

impressions

4.4.3.3.5. Demonstrate the use of macro and micro features to exclude 

impressions

4.4.3.3.6. Understand and demonstrate the ability to recognize when 

additional known prints are needed to complete comparisons

4.4.3.3.7. Understand the variability in appearance of impressions of the 

same and different source skin

4.4.4. Foot Prints

4.4.4.1. Full Foot Prints

4.4.4.1.1. Be familiar with the major regions: toes, hallucal, interdigital, 

hypothenar (proximal & distal), thenar (proximal & distal) and 

calcar

4.4.4.1.2. Be familiar with the frequency of patterns in the foot regions

4.4.4.1.3. Be familiar with the frequency and positions of deltas in the foot 

regions
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.4.4.1.4. Be familiar with major ridge flows in the foot regions

4.4.4.1.5. Be familiar with the position and variation of creases in the feet

4.4.4.2. Partial Foot Prints

4.4.4.2.1. Understand the significance of available ridge flow for left-right 

determination of partial foot prints

4.4.4.2.2. Understand and demonstrate proper recognition of the shapes of 

partial prints from each foot region

4.4.4.2.3. Understand and demonstrate proper recognition of distal 

orientation of partial foot prints

4.4.4.2.4. Understand how to use macro features to determine anatomical 

region

4.4.4.2.5. Understand how to use macro features to determine distal 

orientation

4.4.4.2.6. Understand and demonstrate the ability to properly determine 

when to widen search parameters to include opposite foot, 

additional anatomical regions, or additional orientations

4.4.4.2.7. Understand and demonstrate the ability to properly distinguish 

between palm and foot impressions

4.4.4.2.8. Understand and demonstrate the ability to properly distinguish 

between finger and toe impressions

Once the trainee has become proficient in determining the anatomical region, 

distal orientation, and left-right of foot prints, the next set of practical exercises 

shall include comparison of partial foot prints to foot exemplars. The trainee shall 

also learn to recognize when additional exemplar prints are needed to complete 

the comparisons.

4.4.4.3. Foot Print Comparisons

4.4.4.3.1. Understand and demonstrate the ability to use macro features to 

establish efficient search parameters

4.4.4.3.2. Understand and demonstrate when to widen search parameters 

(opposite foot, additional anatomical regions, or additional 

orientations)
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.4.4.3.3. Understand and demonstrate how to use micro features to establish 

effective target groups

4.4.4.3.4. Demonstrate the use of macro and micro features to associate 

impressions

4.4.4.3.5. Demonstrate the use of macro and micro features to exclude 

impressions

4.4.4.3.6. Understand and demonstrate the ability to recognize when 

additional known prints are needed to complete comparisons

4.4.4.3.7. Understand the variability in appearance of impressions of the 

same and different source skin

4.4.5. Recommended Reading

Champod, Christophe et al. Fingerprints and Other Ridge Skin Impressions (2nd Edition). 

Chapters 1 and 2. Appendices A and B. CRC Press, Boca Raton, 2016 

Cowger, James F. Friction Ridge Skin: Comparison and Identification of Fingerprints.

Chapter 7. CRC Press, New York. 1993

The Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Science of Fingerprints; Types of Patterns and 

Their Interpretation, pgs. 5 – 63. U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Government Printing 

Office, Washington DC, 1979

Cummins, Harold and Midlo, Charles. Finger Prints, Palms, and Soles: An Introduction 

to Dermatoglyphics (3rd Edition). Chapter 6 - Soles. Research Publishing Company, 

South Berlin. Mass, 197

4.5. Fingerprint Classification

The methods most commonly accepted in the United States are the Henry System of 

Classification and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). Only trainees that are 

tasked with classifying fingerprints shall complete this module and at a minimum, shall 

understand the following:

4.5.1. Henry Classification System (Edward Henry)

4.5.1.1. Understand and demonstrate the ability to determine the Primary, 

Secondary, Sub-secondary, Major, Final and Key classifications

4.5.1.2. Be familiar with the success and the pervasive use of the Henry 

Classification System

4.5.2. Federal Bureau of Investigation National Crime Information Center (NCIC)
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.5.2.1. Understand and demonstrate the ability to determine the alphanumeric 

classification system specific to each finger

4.5.2.2. Understand and demonstrate the ability to determine the 20-character code 

consisting of all fingers

4.5.2.3. Be familiar with the scope and efficacy of the classification system

4.5.3. Recommended Reading

The Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Science of Fingerprints. The Classification 

Formula and Extensions, pgs. 80 – 91. U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Government 

Printing Office, Washington DC, 1979

4.6. Exemplars

Exemplars are intentional legible recordings of friction ridge skin. All Friction ridge trainees 

shall be familiar with how to legibly record friction ridge skin. Only those trainees that are 

tasked with obtaining exemplar prints shall demonstrate the ability to properly record 

exemplar prints and at a minimum shall understand the following:

4.6.1. General

4.6.1.1. Understand the reasons exemplars are required

4.6.1.2. Understand the importance of obtaining legible friction ridge impressions 

for comparison and the impact of:

4.6.1.2.1. Incomplete recording of friction ridge skin

4.6.1.2.2. Missing anatomical sources

4.6.1.2.3. Exemplar distortions (unclear recordings, digital capture, facsimile 

records, etc.)

4.6.1.2.4. Limitations of preservation techniques

4.6.1.2.5. Demonstrate the ability to recognize when exemplars have been 

fully and legibly recorded.

4.6.2. Preservation Techniques

4.6.2.1. Exemplars
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.6.2.1.1. Be familiar with equipment and techniques to obtain inked, live 

scan, or other types of exemplars

4.6.2.1.2. Understand necessary documentation when obtaining exemplars

4.6.2.1.3. Understand and (if applicable) demonstrate the proper 

methodology for:

4.6.2.1.3.1. Obtaining fingerprint exemplars

4.6.2.1.3.2. Obtaining palm print exemplars

4.6.2.1.3.3. Obtaining footprint exemplars

4.6.2.1.3.4. Obtaining complete friction ridge (Major Case) exemplars

4.6.2.2. Recording friction ridge skin from deceased individuals

4.6.2.2.1. Understand and (if applicable) demonstrate the proper 

methodology for:

4.6.2.2.1.1. Obtaining exemplars from decomposed friction ridge skin

4.6.2.2.1.2. Obtaining exemplars from macerated friction ridge skin

4.6.2.2.1.3. Obtaining exemplars from desiccated friction ridge skin

4.6.2.2.1.4. Obtaining exemplars from charred friction ridge skin

4.6.3. Recommended Reading

Cutro, B.T. Friction Ridge Sourcebook. Chapter 4 - Recording living and post-mortem 

friction ridge exemplars. National Institute of Justice. 2011

4.7. Latent Print Processing

The following training module will address latent print processing and development. 

Depending on agency operations and capabilities, not all latent print examiners are expected 

or required to process, develop, and preserve latent print impressions from physical evidence; 

however, all latent print examiners need to understand the effects of latent print processes 

and preservation methods as they directly impact the ability to analyze friction ridge 

impressions. Section I applies to latent print examiners that do not perform processing, 

development or preservation of latent print impressions. Sections I & II apply to latent print 

examiners that do perform processing, development or preservation of latent print 

impressions. 
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

Each agency should have a requisite number of supervised cases for the trainee to complete 

that sufficiently prepares that trainee for autonomous casework. 

4.7.1. Section I – At a minimum, all trainees shall:

4.7.1.1. Be familiar with processing, development and preservation methods 

utilized by the organization and/or submitting organizations with respect 

to:

4.7.1.1.1. How the methods are applied

4.7.1.1.2. The order in which the methods are applied

4.7.1.1.3. The properties of the latent print residue, substrate, and or method 

that facilitate the development of the impression.

4.7.1.1.4. The impact of each method (and combinations thereof) on the 

appearance of the impression.

4.7.1.2. Understand the impact of the following on the development and 

appearance of friction ridge impressions:

4.7.1.2.1. Substrate type

4.7.1.2.2. Substrate material composition

4.7.1.2.3. Substrate surface attributes

4.7.1.2.4. Environmental conditions

4.7.1.2.5. Collection, preservation and handling

4.7.1.3. Using practical exercises, demonstrate the ability to recognize relevant 

effects to the appearance of friction ridge impressions due to various 

processing methods utilized by the organization and/or submitting 

organizations. 

4.7.2. Section II – At a minimum, trainees that perform processing, development or 

preservation methods shall:

4.7.2.1. Understand and demonstrate how to properly apply the methods using 

appropriate procedures and sequence with respect to other methods.

4.7.2.2. Understand and demonstrate how controls (positive and negative) are 

utilized to test the efficacy of chemicals or chemical solutions.
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.7.2.3. Understand the optimum environmental conditions for each method, e.g. 

temperature and humidity.

4.7.2.4. Understand and demonstrate how to properly prepare chemicals and 

solutions relevant to the methods utilized.

4.7.2.5. Understand relevant health and safety considerations with respect to 

proper handling, storage, and use of the methods utilized, to include:

4.7.2.5.1. Proper interpretation of Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

4.7.2.5.2. Proper utilization of ventilation (fume hoods)

4.7.2.5.3. Proper use and maintenance of eye wash stations and personal 

safety showers

4.7.2.5.4. Proper use and maintenance of personal protective equipment 

(PPE)

4.7.3. Recommended Reading

Yamashita, Brian; French, Mike. Friction Ridge Sourcebook. Chapter 7 - Latent Print

Development. 2011.

Home Office Centre for Applied Science and Technology (CAST). Fingerprint 

Visualization Manual. Centre for Applied Science and Technology (CAST), London, 

2014 

Champod, Christophe et al. Fingerprints and Other Ridge Skin Impressions (2

nd Edition). 

Chapter 4. CRC Press, Boca Raton, 2016. 

4.8. Examination Method

The process by which fingerprint examiners make decisions when performing examinations 

between two impressions is achieved by assessing the quantity, clarity, and rarity of features 

as well as the correspondence of those features. At a minimum, the trainee shall understand

the following concepts:

4.8.1. Value Determination for Comparison

4.8.1.1. Understand the significance of anatomical source (fingers, palms and 

soles) and skin conditions when making value determinations 

4.8.1.2. Understand and demonstrate the ability to properly determine correct 

orientation
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.8.1.3. Understand the effects of substrates, matrices, and processing methods on 

the appearance of the impression

4.8.1.4. Understand the effects of distortion (i.e. pressure, processing method) on 

pattern and feature reliability

4.8.1.5. Understand the effect that distortion has on decision-making tolerance 

4.8.1.6. Understand and demonstrate the ability to detect “Red Flags”, such as 

double-taps, tonal reversals, ridge disturbances, misaligned ridges, 

substrate artifacts, forgeries and fabrications and their significance during 

examinations

4.8.1.7. Understand the assessment of quality, quantity and rarity of features

4.8.1.8. Understand how the above factors affect the determination of suitability 

(value) for comparison

4.8.1.9. Demonstrate the ability to render suitability (value) determinations

4.8.1.10. Understand the concept of sufficiency as it relates to drawing conclusions

4.8.1.11. Understand and demonstrate how to document observations

4.8.2. Comparison of Two Impressions

4.8.2.1. Understand and demonstrate how to select an effective target group 

4.8.2.2. Understand and demonstrate how to assess the discriminability of features

4.8.2.3. Understand and demonstrate the ability to distinguish between an apparent 

dissimilarity and an actual difference in ridge arrangement

4.8.3. Source Conclusions

4.8.3.1. Understand and demonstrate the ability to properly interpret the quantity, 

clarity, and rarity of features as well as the correspondence of those 

features between two impressions to accurately render a conclusion of:

4.8.3.1.1. Source Exclusion

4.8.3.1.2. Support for Different Sources

4.8.3.1.3. Inconclusive/Lacking Support

4.8.3.1.4. Support for Same Sources
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.8.3.1.5. Source Identification

4.8.3.2. Quality Assurance

4.8.3.2.1. Understand the measures that should be taken to properly 

scrutinize conclusions (e.g. enhanced documentation in complex 

examinations, attempt to falsify the original conclusions)

4.8.3.2.2. Understand the types of possible verifications: peer review, blind 

verification, multiple verifiers, group consensus

4.8.3.2.3. Understand the issues that may contribute to false positives and 

false negatives (e.g. human factors) and safeguards that can help 

minimize their occurrence.

4.8.4. Recommended Reading

Ashbaugh, D. R. Quantitative-Qualitative Friction Ridge Analysis: An Introduction to 

Basic and Advanced Ridgeology. Chapter IV – The Identification Process, 87 – 148. CRC 

Press, Boca Raton, 1999

Black, J. Friction Ridge Examination (Fingerprints): Evaluating the Extent and Scope of 

“Verification” in Analysis Comparison Evaluation and Verification (ACE-V). In: Wiley 

Encyclopedia of Forensic Science; Jamieson, A., Moenssens, A., Eds.; John Wiley & Sons 

Ltd, Chichester, 2009

Maceo, Alice V. Qualitative Assessment of Skin Deformation – A Pilot Study. Journal of 

Forensic Identification. 2009, 59 (4), 390-440

Vanderkolk, John, R. Forensic Comparative Science. Chapter 6 – Analysis, Analysis, 

Comparison, Evaluation, and Verification, 89 – 102. Elsevier Academic Press, London, 

2009 

Wertheim, Pat Detection of Forged and Fabricated Latent Prints. Journal of Forensic 

Identification. 1994 44(6), 652-681

4.9. Logic, Probability, and Statistics

A friction ridge examiner conducts examinations of friction ridge evidence which consists of 

partial, smudged, and incomplete recordings of the raised portion of the epidermis on palmar 

and plantar skin. The examiner analyzes impressions or other marks to detect relevant details, 

to compare these details to a reference exemplar, and to evaluate the probability of the 

observations under two competing propositions: (1) the two friction-ridge impressions 

originated from the same source, or (2) the two friction-ridge impressions originated from 

different sources. The examiner then forms opinions regarding (1) the weight or significance 
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

of the correspondence (or lack of correspondence) in the observed details of different marks 

or (2) which proposition is true. Judgments about weight may be expressed in either 

qualitative terms or, with the use of a validated model, in quantitative terms. Judgments 

about the competing propositions are not certainties; they must be accompanied by 

probabilities of error. This module provides a list of concepts and terms from probability 

theory and statistics that are applicable to evaluating the weight of evidence and expressing 

uncertainty in conclusions.

The readings listed at the end of this module are not exhaustive, and other textbooks and 

online resources cover the same material. Although the readings include mathematical 

expositions, facility with the mathematics is not the objective. The objective is to ensure the 

trainee is familiar with the statistical concepts that apply to friction-ridge examinations. At a 

minimum, the trainee shall understand the following concepts:

4.9.1. Logic and Reasoning

4.9.1.1. Understand how inferences are formed using deductive, inductive, and 

abductive logic.

4.9.1.2. Understand the different circumstances in which deductive, inductive, and 

abductive logic are utilized as well as the strengths and limitations 

associated with these resulting inferences.

4.9.2. Descriptive Statistics

4.9.2.1. Understand the concepts of variables, data, frequency distributions, and 

statistics.

4.9.2.2. Understand statistics and displays for describing the center and variability 

of data.

4.9.3. Probability Theory (Model → Data, or Population → Sample)

4.9.3.1. Understand the axioms of mathematical probability and the definition of a 

probability function.

4.9.3.2. Understand the definition of conditional probability and why transposing 

the events or propositions in a conditional probability is not generally 

correct.

4.9.3.3. Understand the difference between a likelihood and a probability.

4.9.3.4. Understand the relationship between probabilities and odds.
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4.9.3.5. Understand the components of the odds form of Bayes’ rule for binary 

variables (prior probability, likelihood ratio, posterior probability) and 

their relationship.

4.9.4. Inferential Statistics (Data → Model, or Sample → Population)

4.9.4.1. Understand the concept of a “probability distribution and its parameters”.

4.9.4.2. Understand the difference between a sample statistic and a population 

parameter, including the estimation of a population proportion from a 

sample proportion.

4.9.4.3. Understand the concepts of measurement error (including bias and random 

error), sampling error, and modeling error.

4.9.4.4. Understand and be able to explain the differences between the following 

conditional probabilities and their use when describing the performance of 

an analytical technique:

4.9.4.4.1. Sensitivity

4.9.4.4.2. Specificity

4.9.4.4.3. False Positive Rate

4.9.4.4.4. False Negative Rate

4.9.4.4.5. Positive Predictive Value

4.9.4.4.6. Negative Predictive Value

4.9.4.4.7. False Positive Discovery Rate

4.9.4.4.8. False Negative Discovery Rate

4.9.5. Reporting Results

4.9.5.1. Understand the various methods of expressing the weight of evidence as 

they relate to fingerprint evidence:

4.9.5.1.1. Posterior probability

4.9.5.1.2. Likelihood ratio

4.9.5.1.3. Bayes’ Factor
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4.9.5.1.4. Conditional Match Probability

4.9.6. Recommended Reading

MIT Open Courseware, Introduction to Probability and Statistics, Massachusetts Institute 

of Technology, Available online at: http://ocw.mit.edu/courses/mathematics/18-05-

introduction-to-probability-and-statistics-spring-2014/readings/

MIT OpenCourse: "Introduction"

MIT OpenCourse: "Probability Terminology and Examples"

MIT OpenCourse: "Variance of Discrete Random Variables"

MIT OpenCourse: "Conditional Probability, Independence and Bayes' Theorem"

MIT OpenCourse: "Introduction to Statistics"

MIT OpenCourse: "Bayesian Updating with Discrete Priors"

MIT OpenCourse: "Bayesian Updating: Probabilistic Prediction"

MIT OpenCourse: "Bayesian Updating: Odds"

Moore, David S., McCabe, George P., and Craig, Bruce A. Introduction to the Practice 

of Statistics. Chapters 1, 2 and 4, W. H. 9th edition, Macmillan Learning, 2016

Lindley, Dennis V. Understanding Uncertainty (2nd edition). Chapters 1 and 6, Wiley, 

Hoboken, NJ, 2014

European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI) Guideline for Evaluative 

Reporting in Forensic Science, 2015. Available at: 

http://enfsi.eu/sites/default/files/documents/external_publications/m1_guideline.pdf

Champod, Christophe et al. Fingerprints and Other Ridge Skin Impressions (2nd Edition). 

Chapter 4. CRC Press, Boca Raton, 2016.

4.10. Human Factors

Human factors focus on the interactions between humans and products, decisions, 

procedures, workspaces, and the overall environment encountered in the workplace and daily 

living. Human factors affect the decision-making process and therefore examiners need to 

understand how decisions are made as they relate to friction ridge examinations. At a 

minimum, the trainee shall have a general understanding of the following topics and how 

they may impact examinations:
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.10.1. Decision Making Process

4.10.1.1. Understand how personal, professional, and societal values, preferences, 

and other factors impact decision making during friction ridge 

examinations.

4.10.2. Cognitive Interpretation by the Examiner

4.10.2.1. Understand bias and how it can affect the interpretation of friction ridge 

skin features and the resulting conclusions.

4.10.2.1.1. Confirmation Bias

4.10.2.1.2. Contextual Bias

4.10.2.2. Understand how directionality of the comparison could affect bias

4.10.3. Condition of the Examiner

4.10.3.1. Understand the effects of fatigue

4.10.3.2. Understand the effects of medication

4.10.3.3. Understand the effects of mental and physical well-being and stress 

management

4.10.3.4. Understand the effects of vision fluctuations over time

4.10.3.5. Understand the possibility of performance variations

4.10.4. The Work Environment

4.10.4.1. Understand the importance of a functional workspace, such as:

4.10.4.1.1. Ergonomics, e.g. workspaces, desks and chairs

4.10.4.1.2. Lighting

4.10.4.1.3. Computer monitors, keyboards

4.10.4.2. Understand the importance of a comfortable work environment, to include 

ambient factors, such as:

4.10.4.2.1. Temperature

4.10.4.2.2. Background noise
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.10.4.3. Understand the importance of a properly functioning agency culture 

relating to performance, such as:

4.10.4.3.1. Corrective Action pressures

4.10.4.3.2. General work attitudes

4.10.4.3.3. Work environment discord

4.10.5. Recommended Reading

Latent Print Examination and Human Factors: Improving the Practice Through a Systems 

Approach. The National Institute of Standards and Technology. 2012

Busey, T. et al. The impact of fatigue on latent print examinations as revealed by 

behavioral and eye gaze testing. Forensic Science International. 2014

Biedermann, A., Bozza S. and Taroni, F. Decision theoretic properties of forensic 

identification: Underlying logic and argumentative implications. Pages 177, 120-132. 

Forensic Science International. 2008

4.11. Legal Issues

Forensic science is by definition a field that is applied within the context of the legal system. 

Thus, many friction ridge examiners who conduct casework are often called upon to testify in 

a court of law as subject matter experts in their respective forensic discipline. The following 

training outline will cover various aspects relating to the legal system and the friction ridge 

examiner’s role in this system. The trainee shall demonstrate an understanding of the 

formalized processes that relate to the expert witness, courtroom etiquette, qualification and 

admissibility, and any other areas of knowledge that have reasonable potential to be 

referenced during expert testimony. At a minimum, the trainee shall have a general 

understanding of the following topics:

4.11.1. General Courtroom Orientation and Etiquette

4.11.1.1. Understand the orientation of the courtroom (typical places for 

prosecution, defense, judge, witness, jury, stenographer, etc.)

4.11.1.2. Understand the roles and responsibilities of key personnel within the 

judicial system

4.11.1.3. Understand the importance of verbal and non-verbal communication, e.g. 

body language and posture

4.11.1.4. Understand the importance of volume and inflection
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4.11.1.5. Understand the importance of courtroom demeanor

4.11.1.6. Understand etiquette when addressing the judge

4.11.1.7. Understand the proper way to enter the courtroom and approach the 

witness stand

4.11.1.8. Understand the rules about witness exclusion from the courtroom and 

when they apply

4.11.1.9. Understand the jurisdiction’s rules about reference to notes or other 

materials

4.11.1.10. Understand the rules about witness dismissal after testimony

4.11.1.11. Understand how to appropriately react when an objection has been raised

4.11.1.12. Understand the hearsay and confrontation clause

4.11.2. Qualification, Credibility, and Admissibility

4.11.2.1. Understand and demonstrate how to construct a curriculum Vitae (CV)

4.11.2.2. Understand the meaning of voir dire and how to properly respond to 

qualifying questions

4.11.2.3. Understand and demonstrate how to prepare for and request pre-trial 

interviews

4.11.2.4. Understand the significance of discovery and disclosure

4.11.2.5. Understand the implications of social media on the credibility of the 

expert witness

4.11.2.6. Understand how to prepare demonstrative exhibits for trial

4.11.2.7. Understand how evidence and examination results are introduced

4.11.2.8. Understand the differences in testimony types (fact vs. opinion)

4.11.2.9. Understand the significance of education and training

4.11.2.10. Understand the value of professional certifications

4.11.2.11. Understand the significance of accreditation
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4.11.2.12. Understand the importance of proficiency testing

4.11.2.13. Understand the significance of laboratory quality assurance processes 

(Administrative / Technical Review) and other quality control mechanisms

4.11.2.14. Understand the operation of legal admissibility standards, such as:

4.11.2.14.1. Frye Standard

4.11.2.14.2. Federal Rules of Evidence specific to expert testimony 

4.11.2.14.3. Daubert Standard

4.11.2.14.4. Other Frye derivatives

4.11.2.14.5. State and local Rules of Evidence

4.11.2.14.6. Understand what learned treatises are

4.11.3. Landmark Court Decisions, e.g.

4.11.3.1. People vs. Jennings (1910)

4.11.3.2. People vs. Crispi (1911)

4.11.3.3. U.S. vs. Frye (1923)

4.11.3.4. People vs. Les (1934)

4.11.3.5. Commonwealth vs. Bartolini (1938)

4.11.3.6. Daubert Trilogy: Daubert vs. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals (1993); 

General Electric vs. Joiner (1997); Kumho Tire vs. Carmichael (1999)

4.11.3.7. U.S. vs. Mitchell (1999)

4.11.3.8. U.S. vs. Llera-Plaza I and II (2002)

4.11.3.9. Commonwealth of MA v. Patterson (2005)

4.11.3.10. New Hampshire vs. Richard Langill (2008)

4.11.3.11. U.S. vs. Brian Keith Rose (2010)

4.11.4. Notable Errors in Fingerprint-Related Cases, e.g.
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4.11.4.1. John Orr (1991)

4.11.4.2. Shirley Mckie (1999)

4.11.4.3. Mark Miller (2001)

4.11.4.4. Brandon Mayfield (2004)

4.11.4.5. Dexter Presnell (2005)

4.11.4.6. Lana Canen (2012)

4.11.4.7. Alton Dandridge (2015)

4.11.5. Forgery / Fabrication Cases, e.g.

4.11.5.1. William DePalma - Fabrication (1967)

4.11.5.2. Herman Wiggins - Fabrication (1970’s)

4.11.5.3. NY State Troop “C” – Fabrication (1989)

4.11.5.4. Frederik van der Vyver – Fabrication (2005)

4.11.5.5. Peter Paul Biro – Jackson Pollack fake - Forgery (2008)

4.11.6. Courtroom Testimony: Effectively articulating in a court of law, the following 

items and their association to friction ridge examination:

4.11.6.1. Describe the difference between error rate types:

4.11.6.1.1. False positives / Type I

4.11.6.1.2. False negatives / Type II

4.11.6.2. Describe how human factors can affect decision-making

4.11.6.3. Describe different types of Biases that can occur during friction ridge 

comparisons

4.11.6.4. Describe the difference between verification and blind verification

4.11.6.5. Describe the examination process

4.11.6.6. Describe the importance of chain of custody integrity
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

4.11.6.7. Describe the differences between sufficiency for collection, sufficiency for 

comparison, and sufficiency for conclusion

4.11.6.8. Describe the strengths and weaknesses of ACE-V 

4.11.6.9. Describe the research that supports why a point standard is inappropriate

4.11.6.10. Describe how tolerance is established for differences in appearance during 

analysis 

4.11.6.11. Describe the research that measures the rarity of friction ridge detail

4.11.6.12. Describe how likelihood ratio research is used to support conclusions 

4.11.6.13. Describe the importance of accreditation and certification

4.11.6.14. Describe the difference between accuracy and reliability

4.11.6.15. Describe quality assurance measures that can be implemented to reduce 

errors and mitigate bias

4.11.6.16. Describe the difference between objectivity and subjectivity

4.11.6.17. Describe the importance of examination process standards 

4.11.6.18. Describe the importance of objective testimony; avoiding bolstering or 

exaggerating what is demonstrable

4.11.6.19. Describe the difference between two dimensional and three-dimensional

friction ridge detail and how it relates to sufficiency

4.11.6.20. Describe the research that studies the persistence of friction ridge detail

4.11.6.21. Describe the effect of quality and quantity on the utility of a print

4.11.6.22. Describe the research that assesses the discriminability of feature 

configurations

4.11.6.23. Describe the latent print suitability research for database searches

4.11.6.24. Describe the research that assesses the reproducibility and repeatability of 

latent print examiner conclusions

4.11.7. Scientific Studies and Research: related literature that covers a diverse scope of 

friction ridge related topics that have been challenged in the court system: it is the 

trainer and trainees’ responsibility to stay abreast of novel and significant 
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

research. This can be accomplished through professional associations, peerreviewed journals that are part of generally available scientific literature and 

published texts.

4.11.8. Mock Trial Program: The trainee shall demonstrate their training in the form of 

expert testimony. The mock trial program should simulate the courtroom to 

include the roles of the prosecution and the defense. This simulation shall include 

all aspects of testimony that the examiner would expect to encounter. Multiple 

mock trials are recommended in a graduated difficulty format. The mock trial(s) 

shall include a formal evaluation of the trainee’s readiness to testify in a court of 

law.

4.11.8.1. Example Mock Trial Program:

4.11.8.1.1. Mock Trial #1: Focus on basic qualifying questions

4.11.8.1.2. Mock Trial #2: Qualifying questions; introduce cross-examination 

(defense)

4.11.8.1.3. Mock Trial #3: Qualifying questions; challenging direct and cross 

examination

4.11.8.1.4. Mock Trial #4: Final: Aggressive direct and cross examination; 

challenging topics; admissibility related topics

4.11.9. Recommended Reading:

Moenssens, Andre A., Meagher, Stephen B. The Fingerprint Sourcebook. Chapter 13 –

Fingerprints and the Law. National Institute of Justice. 2011

Chisum, Jerry, W., Turvey, Brent E., Crime Reconstruction. Chapter 13 – Surviving and 

Thriving in the Courtroom, 483-506. Elsevier Academic Press. 2007

National Academy of Sciences. Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A 

Path Forward. Pages 1-53, 136-145. National Research Council. 2009

Wertheim, P. Detection of Forged and Fabricated Latent Prints. Journal of Forensic 

Identification 44(6) 652, 1994

Steele, Lisa J. The Defense Challenge to Fingerprints. Criminal Law Bulletin 40(3), 213-

240. 2004 

Edmond, Gary, et al. A guide to interpreting forensic testimony: Scientific approaches to 

fingerprint evidence. Law, Probability & Risk. 13(1): 1-25. Oxford Academic. 2013
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Executive Office of the President, President’s Council of Advisors on Science and 

Technology (PCAST), Panel on Forensic Science, Forensic Science in Criminal Courts: 

Ensuring Scientific Validity of Feature-Comparison Methods, September 2016.

Executive Office of the President, President’s Council of Advisors on Science and 

Technology (PCAST), Panel on Forensic Science, Forensic Science in Criminal Courts: 

Ensuring Scientific Validity of Feature-Comparison Methods; Addendum to 1st edition 

September 2016, January 2017.

4.12. Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS)

An automated biometric identification system is a computer-based system for reading, 

cataloguing, searching, matching, and storing friction ridge images, feature templates and 

related text data; typically comprised of feature extraction, matching, and decision-logic 

subsystems. It is a tool that many agencies utilize to search unknown friction ridge 

impressions to generate potential comparison candidates. The following training outline 

will cover various aspects relating to the utility and application of these automated systems. 

Prior to automation training, friction ridge examiners must possess the knowledge, skills, 

and ability to recognize comparable friction ridge detail.

Given the ubiquity of ABIS, all trainees should have a general familiarity of the system 

while those trainees who will eventually perform work on an ABIS will be required, at 

minimum, to have a general understanding of the following topics:

4.12.1. Image Acquisition

4.12.1.1. Describe types of friction ridge recordings (e.g., rolled, flat, simultaneous, 

palm, and supplemental impressions)

4.12.1.2. Describe methods of friction ridge capture (e.g., ink and livescan)

4.12.1.3. Describe types of capture devices (e.g., livescan, flatbed scanner, and 

camera)

4.12.1.4. Understand point of capture variables (e.g., condition of fingers, condition 

of platen, rolling speed, ink volume, and movement)

4.12.1.5. Understand control measures needed to achieve quality friction ridge 

images (e.g., scan resolution, compression rate, equipment maintenance, 

and calibration)

4.12.1.6. Understand procedures for addressing amputations, temporary injuries, 

skin conditions, rescans

4.12.1.7. Understand individual agency livescan operator training policies
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4.12.2. Function and Use of ABIS

4.12.2.1. Understand ABIS processes related to acquisition, classification, 

searching, storage, retrieval, identification, and final reporting of friction 

ridge records

4.12.2.2. Understand composite records

4.12.2.3. Describe friction ridge search criteria (e.g., designated finger search, how 

many fingers, and palm areas)

4.12.2.4. Understand system quality controls, which ensure completeness, image 

quality, and data integrity

4.12.2.5. Understand individual agency system user guides

4.12.2.6. Describe system tolerance for image rotation

4.12.2.7. Understand minutiae extraction, minutiae matching, placement, rotation, 

ridge counts, and other minutiae factors related to searching and matching

4.12.2.8. Understand system interoperability.

4.12.2.8.1. Understand extended Feature Set (EFS) image and feature search 

profiles, as described in detail in the NIST Special Publication 

1151, Markup Instructions for Extended Feature Sets.

4.12.2.8.2. Understand ANSI NIST record types (Type-1, Type-2, Type-4, 

Type-9, Type-13, Type-14, Type-15)

4.12.2.9. Understand integration of friction ridge images and personal descriptors

4.12.2.10. Understand significance in the range of candidate scores, threshold 

scoring, and candidate list and associated scores 

4.12.2.11. Understand balancing system and personnel resources for optimal 

accuracy, timeliness, and thoroughness

4.12.2.12. Understand search capabilities relating to latent print versus tenprint, 

tenprint versus latent print, latent print versus latent print, tenprint versus 

tenprint, and palmprint versus palmprint.

4.12.2.13. Understand “lights out” processing of searches 

4.12.2.14. Understand logical search progression (i.e., local ABIS first, then state, 
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

regional, national, and international).

4.12.2.15. Describe benefits and risks to using search parameters to limit database 

penetration (e.g., finger position, sex, pattern classification and 

referencing, race, offense, and geographic location).

4.12.2.16. Describe search result contents (e.g., ranked order, unique identifier, and 

finger or palm position).

4.12.2.17. Understand image properties and compression issues (e.g., potential loss 

of quality due to compression of images, monitor resolution, and capture 

resolution).

4.12.2.18. Understand printer technology limitations versus examinations from 

digital images (e.g., quality degradation of printed images)

4.12.2.19. AFIS processes related to latent print searches

4.12.2.19.1. Describe manual and automatic encoding of minutiae

4.12.2.19.2. Understand record authentication processes (e.g., correct 

association of name, unique identifier, and friction ridge images)

4.12.3. Recommended Reading:

ANSI/NIST-ITL 1-2011 Update: 2015, Data Format for the Interchange of Fingerprint & 

other Biometric Information, NIST Special Publication 500-290e3, National Institute of 

Standards and Technology, Washington, DC, 2015.

Criminal Justice Information Services, Electronic Biometric Transmission Specification 

(EBTS), version 10.0, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Clarksburg, WV, 2013.

Ken Moses, Chapter 6: Automatic Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS), in: A. 

McRoberts (Ed.) The Fingerprint Sourcebook, National Institute of Justice, Washington 

D.C., 2011, pp. 6-1 - 6-33.

Will Chapman, Austin Hicklin, George I. Kiebuzinski, Peter Komarinski, John MayerSplain, Melissa Taylor, Rachel Wallner, Latent Interoperability Transmission 

Specification, NIST Special Publication 1152, National Institute of Standards and 

Technology, Washington, DC, 2013.

Will Chapman, Austin Hicklin, George I. Kiebuzinski, Peter Komarinski, John MayerSplain, Melissa Taylor, Rachel Wallner, Markup Instructions for Extended Friction Ridge 

Features, NIST Special Publication 1151, National Institute of Standards and 

Technology, Washington, DC, 2013.
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Standard for Friction Ridge Examination Training Program

Peter Komarinski, Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS), Elsevier 

Academic Press, New York, 2005.

Thomas Busey, Arch Silapiruti, John Vanderkolk, The relation between sensitivity, 

similar non-matches and database size in fingerprint database searches. Law, Probability, 

and Risk (2014) 13, 151-168.

5. Appendix A: Change Log

Version Date Change

1.0 12/22/2017 Original Issue