The FBI conducts Identity History Summary checks to provide a record of an individual’s reported criminal history across the United States. This article explains what information the FBI background check typically includes, how it is used, what it excludes, and how to obtain and correct the records. Understanding these details helps individuals anticipate what potential employers, licensing boards, or other stakeholders may see during a background screening.
What Information Is Included In An FBI Background Check
The core component of an FBI background check is the Identity History Summary, commonly known as a “rap sheet.” It is based on information contained in the FBI’s National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and the agency’s own records. The content can include:
- Criminal history records reported by federal, state, and local agencies, including felonies and misdemeanors.
- Arrests and dispositions if they are reported to be associated with a valid criminal case and include final outcomes such as disposition or dismissal.
- Dates and jurisdictions of the incidents, including where the arrest occurred and where charges were filed.
- Identifying information such as name variations, date of birth, and sometimes fingerprints or photos to verify identity.
- Pending cases or active investigations that have not yet resulted in a disposition, when available.
- National security and sensitive records notes, if applicable, though these are limited to authorized requests and specific purposes.
Because the FBI compiles this information from many agencies, the exact content can vary based on what has been reported and maintained in official records. The FBI’s system does not automatically include everything an individual has ever done; it reflects records that have been reported, verified, and retained by partner agencies.
What The FBI Background Check Reveals For Employment, Licensing, And Security Clearances
Different requests have different implications. For employment and licensing, the FBI Identity History Summary is often used to confirm identity and review criminal histories, with the caveat that:
- Severity and recency of offenses are considered by employers or boards in context; minor or old offenses may have limited impact.
- Adjudication status matters; some systems emphasize finalized dispositions rather than pending charges.
- State and local records complement FBI data. Some states provide additional records not captured by the FBI if they are not reported to federal databases.
For security clearances, the U.S. government may require more comprehensive background investigations, including:
- Verification of identity and background history from multiple sources.
- Credit, employment, and education checks (conducted by authorized investigators, not solely the FBI).
- Interviews and checks with references, family, or colleagues as part of the broader investigation.
In all cases, results must be interpreted in light of the purpose of the inquiry, the scope of the check, and applicable laws that govern how information can be used and shared.
What The FBI Background Check Does Not Include
Several types of information are typically outside the scope of an FBI Identity History Summary or are not included by default:
- Credit history or financial records are not part of the FBI background check unless specifically requested in the context of a broader investigation.
- Mental health records and treatment information are generally not accessible through routine Identity History checks.
- Immigration status details are not a standard element of most FBI identity checks unless tied to specific investigations.
- Domestic incidents without official records or unreported incidents will not appear.
- Arrests that did not lead to charges or dispositions may not be included if no final outcome is recorded.
- Info protected by privacy laws and court-ordered redactions may limit what appears in the report.
Understanding these limitations helps set realistic expectations for what the check can and cannot reveal about a person’s history.
How The FBI Identity History Summary Is Collected And Used
The Identity History Summary is generated through a formal process requiring proper authorization. Applicants typically submit fingerprints to a designated channel, often through a state or federal agency, to initiate the record check. The FBI then cross-references fingerprint data with its records to locate matching entries and compile a report. The process is designed to protect accuracy and privacy through:
- Identity verification to ensure the report corresponds to the correct individual.
- Record reconciliation to resolve discrepancies and ensure dispositions are up to date.
- Strict release controls that govern who may access the information and for what purpose.
Requests for Identity History Summaries are commonly used for pre-employment screening, licensing qualifications, visa and immigration checks, and certain security clearances. When results are disputed or inaccurate, individuals have a right to challenge and correct the record through formal processes.
How To Obtain Your FBI Identity History Summary
Individuals can request their own Identity History Summary directly from the FBI. The process typically involves:
- Submitting fingerprints either electronically or via traditional ink methods, depending on the agency requirements.
- Providing identifying information such as full name, date of birth, and current contact details.
- Paying a processing fee for the FBI to conduct the search and generate the report.
- Reviewing results for accuracy and submitting corrections if needed.
It is important to use official channels to request the report to avoid delays or fraud. The FBI provides guidance on what to expect and steps for correcting errors if they appear in the Identity History Summary.
Correcting Errors Or Inaccuracies In An FBI Background Check
Errors can occur if someone else’s record is misattributed or if dispositions are not correctly updated. When discrepancies arise, the following steps are typically advised:
- Submit a correction request with clear documentation showing the correct disposition or record.
- Provide supporting documents such as court records, dismissals, or final judgments to verify the correct information.
- Follow up with the reporting agencies to ensure changes are reflected in the FBI’s Identity History Summary.
Timelines for corrections vary, but prompt action helps prevent misunderstandings in hiring, licensing, or security processes that rely on accurate background information.
Practical Guidance For Interpreting An FBI Background Check
When reviewing a report, consider the following to interpret results effectively:
- Context matters—the age of offenses and the nature of incidents influence credibility and impact.
- Dispositions are key—final outcomes affect how an offense is viewed by employers or authorities.
- Scope limitations—the report may not include every record from every jurisdiction; supplement with state-level checks if needed.
- Legal rights— individuals have rights to challenge inaccuracies and to understand how information can be used under applicable laws.
For anyone facing a background screening, understanding what the FBI background check shows helps prepare responses and supports fair evaluation by potential employers, licensing boards, or agencies.