What is Included on a Criminal Background Check?

A criminal background check searches public records for any criminal offenses a person has committed. Criminal background checks are commonly requested by employers to ensure that prospective employees will not pose a risk to the company. Though not all background checks search for the same information, most checks include arrest records, convictions and a sex registry check. Some criminal background checks may also include lawsuits and driving infractions.

Warrants

Some criminal background checks will search public records for outstanding arrest warrants. If the background check only searches a certain state, it may not show warrants issued in other states.

Arrests

Most criminal background checks will show a person's arrest record for the past seven years. Some states seal arrest records unless the person is awaiting trial for the arrest.

Misdemeanors

Misdemeanor convictions are usually included on background checks, though some companies do not report misdemeanors. Some states seal convictions for drug possession or if a certain amount of time passes.

Felonies

Felonies are the most serious of convictions and will be reported on standard background checks. Almost all criminal background checks report felony convictions, regardless of how old the conviction is.

Sex Offenses

Criminal background checks typically search sex offender registries. Applicants applying for government jobs or positions working with children will be checked for sex offenses.