FBI background checks search national criminal history records maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. These checks are fingerprint-based, which helps ensure the records returned are accurately associated with the individual being screened.
What FBI Background Checks Are Used For
FBI background checks are frequently required for positions in regulated industries or in situations where specific statutes, licensing bodies, or government agencies mandate their use. They may also be required for certain professional licenses, certifications, or roles involving vulnerable populations.
Because these checks rely on fingerprints, they are designed to return records tied to a specific individual, reducing the likelihood of identity-matching errors.
What an FBI Background Check Includes
An FBI background check returns criminal history information that has been reported to the FBI and is associated with an individual’s fingerprints. This may include:
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Arrests reported by participating agencies
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Felony and misdemeanor charges
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Case dispositions, when available
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Records submitted by federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies
The results draw from national databases, offering broader geographic coverage than searches limited to a single state or county.
What an FBI Background Check Does Not Include
Even with its national scope, an FBI background check does not provide a complete picture of a candidate. It does not include:
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Credit history or financial data
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Employment or education verification
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Driving records
In addition, criminal records that were never reported to the FBI may not appear.
How Employers Should Use FBI Checks
FBI background checks are typically required in specific circumstances and should be administered in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and authorization requirements.
If you have questions about FBI background checks or how they fit into your screening process, please contact us.
