FAQ About Criminal Background Checks

Some employers conduct a pre-hiring criminal background check.

If you've ever been in trouble with law enforcement chances are you have some kind of criminal record. You may wish to monitor your criminal background data to ensure it is accurate.

Can I Run a Criminal Background Check on Myself?

Yes, you can request a copy of your own criminal history record or get verification that no record exists. To check your own background, complete a form provided by the FBI, get your fingerprints taken and send a processing fee to the FBI office. The FBI may take up to 12 weeks to respond to your request.

Will My College Run a Background Check on Me?

Some universities require a criminal background check as a condition of admission. According to the American Medical College Application Service, all U.S. medical schools get a background check on applicants before admission to medical school. Running a background check on medical students promotes the safety and well-being of patients and encourages them to trust their physicians.

What If the Information in My Criminal Background Check Is Wrong?

If a data aggregator reports inaccurate information about you, you may request a copy of the report and ask the reporting agency to remove the inaccurate items. An article in Wired.com tells the story of an applicant for a job at Home Depot who was turned down because of his criminal background. The company that ran his background check, erroneously listed him as a felon, killer and sex offender. After a number of emails and phone calls, the applicant eventually got the inaccurate information removed from his records.

References

• FBI: Criminal Background Check
• American Medical College Application Service
• Wired.com: Bad Data Fouls Background Checks