In today's world, understanding the ins and outs of Florida criminal background checks can be incredibly beneficial. These checks play a vital role in maintaining safety and compliance across various sectors, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) processes over a million criminal history background checks each year, requested by employers, licensing agencies, and individuals verifying their own records.
In Florida, there are generally two levels of criminal background screenings, defined under Chapter 435 of the Florida Statutes:
- Level 1 – A state-only, name-based check, which can return results in approximately 24 hours.
- Level 2 – A fingerprint-based check that includes both Florida and national (FBI) criminal history records, return results in several business days depending on the FDLE’s workload and the FBI’s processing times.
Level 2 background checks help ensure that individuals in positions of trust and responsibility are thoroughly vetted. From healthcare and education to youth athletics, these checks support both safety and legal compliance.
Florida legislation, including Chapters 435 and 943, mandates these screenings for specific roles. Notably, recent updates to Florida Statute 943.0438 require all youth sports organization staff and volunteers, including coaches and referees, to undergo Level 2 fingerprint-based background screenings starting January 1, 2025. These enhanced measures aim to create safer environments, particularly for vulnerable populations like young athletes.
Who Needs a Criminal Background Check
Background checks are essential in many areas, extending well beyond just employment scenarios. In hiring, employers frequently use these checks to ensure workplace safety and make well-informed decisions. According to FDLE guidelines, governmental agencies in Florida can access both state and national criminal history information for licensing and employment purposes.
- Frequent Use by Employers and Agencies:
Sectors like healthcare, education, childcare, and public safety frequently require Level 2 checks by law. Some industries also conduct annual or periodic re-checks to maintain ongoing compliance with Florida regulations. - Financial Institutions rely heavily on background checks to meet regulatory requirements and sustain customer confidence, ensuring that personnel with financial responsibilities are properly screened.
- Healthcare Organizations must verify the credentials and history of healthcare professionals to protect patient safety and trust.
- Educational Institutions conduct background checks to confirm that teachers, administrators, and other staff members are suitable for working with children and young adults.
- Volunteer Organizations often perform checks to screen individuals who will work with vulnerable populations. By doing so, they help safeguard the well-being of those they serve.
Each of these sectors relies on background checks to maintain safety and trust, making them an essential part of Florida’s regulatory framework. By understanding who needs a criminal background check, organizations can better meet their obligations and foster secure environments.
Step-by-Step Process to Request a Level 2 Background Check
Requesting a fingerprint background check in Florida involves a few straightforward steps:
- Obtain the ORI Number
Your employer or volunteer organization will provide you with an Originating Agency Identifier (ORI). This number ensures the results of your background check are sent directly to the appropriate government agency (FBI, FDLE, etc.). - Complete Required Forms
The company/organization may require specific consent or disclosure forms. These forms are releases for a request of personal identification details, e.g. name, SSN, DoB, and address. - Schedule a Livescan Fingerprinting Appointment
Florida uses Livescan fingerprinting technology for Level 2 screenings. Locate an approved Livescan provider, via a company's webpage and schedule an appointment. Please remember to bring-
- Valid government issued photo ID (drivers license, passport, or ID card).
- ORI number.
- Payment ID and/or other documentation outlined in your appointment confirmation instructions.
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- Arrive at Your Fingerprinting Appointment
During your appointment, the livescan operator will guide you throw the fingerprint capture process. The images will be submitted directly to the FDLE and/or any other government agency deemed necessary as part of your background check transaction. Unlike ink fingerprinting, the government agencies will receive your fingerprints within minutes, instead of days. - FDLE and Criminal History Review
The FDLE reviews each fingerprint image against state criminal records in the Florida Computerized Criminal History Database (CCH). Your information will also be reviewed by the FBI for a national criminal history review. - Results Sent to Requesting Agency
Once the images are carefully reviewed by the government agencies, the FDLE will return the results of your background check findings to your company/organization.
Resources for Background Checks in Florida
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is the primary resource for obtaining accurate information and managing over a million criminal history background checks annually. They provide clear guidelines and assistance to keep the process straightforward and compliant.
- Official State Websites
Official sites often feature step-by-step instructions, necessary forms, and contact details, ensuring you have everything you need to begin. - Professional Organizations and Industry-Specific Bodies
Healthcare, education, or other specialized fields often have dedicated resources and tools for meeting background check requirements. - Authorized Livescan Providers
Companies that provide fingerprinting background check services will be able to assist with information on processes and locations to book a livescan appointment.
Incorporating these facts and adhering to Florida and FDLE’s guidelines will help you maintain a secure, compliant environment—whether you’re hiring, licensing, or simply verifying someone’s criminal history.
