How to Get a Criminal Background Check in Maryland

For many positions of employment in the state of Maryland, a criminal background check is required to ensure that individuals being hired are qualified for the position. Background checks will find any reported criminal history, history of violence and the credit history of the individual in question and are used by employers to protect the integrity of their organization. All background checks will require the applicant to be fingerprinted with the application.

Instructions

1. Go to any local law enforcement office in Maryland and fill out "Form 011." The form will ask for your name, address, social security number and will require that your fingerprints be taken. Have an officer place a seal or stamp on the document once completed to show that it was approved by a law enforcement official.

2. Place the form into a sealed envelope with a postage stamp and send the completed form to the following address:

   CJIS-CR
   P.O. Box 32708
   Pikesville, MD 21282-2708

3. Include the required fees that are associated with your particular background check. If the employer requires a full background check to be completed by both the state and the FBI, the application fee is $37.25. If the employer requires only a state background check, the associated fee is $18. These fees are accurate as of April 2010 and may change. Send a personal check made out to the "CJIS-CR."

References

• State of Maryland: MD Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services
• Privacy Rights: FAQ's on Employment Background Checks