The best way to check a person’s history is through an FBI background check. From employment applications to visa requests, and legal proceedings, these background checks offer a complete overview of an individual’s encounters with law enforcement. But many people are asking, what does an FBI background check show?
What is revealed in an FBI background check depends on its intent and the type of information requested. Whether you’re an employer trying to assess a potential employee’s criminal background, or you yourself are wanting to ensure that you meet immigration standards, you must understand what an FBI background check reveals. If you require fingerprinting services for your FBI background check, National Livescan Fingerprinting provides Live Scan fingerprinting and drug testing services at authorized FDLE locations in North Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Delray Beach, and Port Saint Lucie.
In this article, we will explore the top things that come up on an FBI background check and explain why it is viewed as the best background screening available.
The Basics: What’s on an FBI Background Check
Complete Record of Criminal History
A detailed criminal history lies at the heart of any FBI background check. The FBI obtains information from state, local, and federal law enforcement agencies and assembles a complete record of arrests, convictions, and incarcerations. Here’s what an FBI background check could reveal:
- Arrests: When, for what, and where users have been arrested (regardless of conviction status).
- Criminal Records: Misdemeanor and felony convictions, along with sentencing information.
- Pending: Investigation or charges that are not yet resolved.
- Warrants: All active arrest warrants.
Disclaimer: The severity of the criminal record given depends upon the jurisdiction in which the crime occurred, as deemed by the laws. Some journey records that have been expunged or sealed may not be included.
Commercial Employment and Professional Licensing Records
For those entering the workforce where employers’ responsibilities include sensitive sectors like healthcare, education, or government, what an FBI background check reveals can also factor in professional licensing and work history verification. Here are some of the records employers may use:
- Verify a candidate’s professional qualifications.
- List previous disciplinary measures, if any.
- Follow industry standards or other licensing requirements.
Fingerprint-Based Identification
Unlike conventional background checks, which rely on names and Social Security numbers, FBI checks use fingerprint data, which returns an unmistakably accurate result. The fingerprints are cross-referenced with the FBI’s Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS) to ensure that the individual’s records are valid and complete.
Providers such as National Livescan Fingerprinting utilize advanced technology in the field of Inkless Fingerprint Capture, which is how fingerprints are taken and submitted for background checks.
What Does an FBI Background Check Indicate
- Data on Immigration and Citizenship: What an FBI background check shows, if requested, may include information on an individual’s immigration or citizenship status. This is essential for applicants who are naturalizing or obtaining visas, because the FBI is responsible for assessing their legal status and criminal history.
- Information on National Sex Offender Registration: The FBI also offers access to the National Sex Offender Registry, which some employers — particularly in sensitive fields like education or childcare — require.
- Federal Records of Arrest and Prosecution: What shows up in an FBI background check is different because federal-level information may not show up in a typical state or local check. Examples include:
- Federal crimes such as tax evasion or mail fraud.
- Convictions or charges brought in federal courts.
What an FBI Background Check Does NOT Reveal
Although an FBI background check is thorough, it has limitations. The report does not typically include:
- Credit History: Unless requested for use in a financial or security clearance background check.
- Protected Medical Records: Protected medical records are regulated under HIPAA.
- Civil Court Cases: Except those related to criminal activity, like restraining orders or judgments related to a crime.
It’s important to know what’s included versus what’s not so that you can ensure the check satisfies your specific needs.
How to Obtain an FBI Background Check
To begin an FBI background check, most people will be required to submit their fingerprints through an authorized channel. This is where National Livescan Fingerprinting comes in, as we provide streamlined, accurate Live Scan fingerprinting solutions at any of a number of Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach, and Port Saint Lucie county locations.
You are also able to book an appointment quite simply, and the process generally consists of:
- Digital card or printed fingerprints.
- Raising business identification documents.
- Sending that data to the FBI electronically for processing.
What an FBI Background Check Shows and Why Employers and Individuals Rely on It
FBI background checks are the most accurate and in-depth checks available, making them the background check of choice for:
- Employers: Lawful, trustworthy, and conscientious candidates.
- Professional Licensing Boards: Verifying eligibility for regulated professions.
If you reside in South Florida and are looking for a quick, reliable method to take care of your FBI background check responsibilities, contact National Livescan Fingerprinting, specialists in fingerprinting and drug testing services.
How to Make the FBI Background Check Process Go Smoothly
- Give Correct Information: Mistakes within your application can lead to delays.
- Invest in Quality Fingerprinting Services: Creating quality scans makes it less likely your fingerprints will be incomprehensible, resulting in rejections.
- Prepare Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary forms and identification.
National Livescan Fingerprinting offers convenient locations and cutting-edge technology to guarantee that your submission complies with FBI requirements on the first attempt.
FAQs for What Does an FBI Background Check Show?
- How long does it take to get an FBI background check?
This period depends on the mode of submission. Live Scan electronic submissions are usually processed in 3–5 business days, while mail-in requests may take several weeks. - Feasibility of a National Background Check
The FBI background check, however, is actually conducted on the person’s fingerprints and not a name-based search, which shows expunged records. Expunged or sealed records are typically not listed on an FBI background check. But individual state laws could impact this. - Can I challenge the results of an FBI background check?
Yes, people can appeal to the FBI what they believe to be incorrect or incomplete information on their background check. - How is an FBI background check different from a standard background check?
An FBI background check is much deeper than a standard one, which often covers only state or local records, and includes federal records. - Let us answer your question: Is fingerprinting a part of your FBI background check?
Yes, for unmatched accuracy and authenticity, fingerprinting is a key part of the FBI checks. - Where can you get fingerprinted for an FBI Background Check?
Call National Livescan Fingerprinting — South Florida’s Trusted Source for FDLE-Approved Live Scan Fingerprinting Services.
Takeaway: What an FBI Background Check Includes Is Worth Having
The FBI background check is critical in revealing someone’s criminal, employment, and work history. The latter, while seemingly peerless both in accuracy and detail, does require a good amount of planning and preparation to get it all to go smoothly.
National Livescan Fingerprinting is a reputable provider of fingerprinting services for FBI background checks in South Florida. Operating in North Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Delray Beach, Port Saint Lucie, and Florida, they are FDLE certified, meaning that they can provide the most convenient, accurate, and rapid submission to make sure that you meet your requirements in a timely period.
Book your appointment at National Livescan Fingerprinting now and experience a fast and accurate background check.
