FBI Background Checks with Fingerprint and Federal Searches
Choose the right FBI-level check: a fingerprint-based identity history check, or a name-based search of federal court records.
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FBI Background Checks
Explained
An FBI background check usually means a fingerprint-based Identity History Summary from the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) division, required for many visas, adoptions, licenses and government jobs. Employers who want federal criminal case information without fingerprints can order a name-based federal criminal search of all 94 U.S. district courts.
Why FBI Background Checks Matter
Fingerprint checks match records to a person’s biometric identity, and federal court searches find crimes prosecuted under federal law. Both cover information that state searches miss.
- Fingerprint matching avoids false name matches.
- Required for many visas, adoptions and licenses.
- Federal court searches find white-collar crimes.
- Book fingerprinting at sites across the U.S.
What Does an FBI Background Check Include?
Depending on the check you choose, results can include:
- Arrest records: Arrests and dispositions reported to the FBI by fingerprint.
- Federal court cases: Name-based results from all 94 U.S. district courts.
- Identity confirmation: Biometric matching against official records.
- State records: State repository results for state fingerprint checks.
Turnaround: Federal court searches take 2–3 business days; fingerprint results typically 24–48 hours after your appointment.
Customize Your Screening Package
FBI Background Check options start at $8.46. Compare packages and individual searches, then choose the checks that fit your needs. No account required for a one-time order.
- Federal Criminal Records Search$8.46
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about fbi background check coverage, timing, and ordering.
What is an FBI background check?
It is usually an FBI Identity History Summary, a fingerprint-based record of arrests and dispositions reported to the FBI. It is often required for visas, adoptions, professional licenses, and government jobs.
How do I get an FBI background check?
Schedule fingerprinting, submit your prints through an approved channel or the FBI, and receive your results by email. Reveal can help you schedule fingerprinting; contact our team to get started.
Can employers run an FBI check?
Only certain employers are authorized by law to receive FBI fingerprint results. Most employers instead use a name-based federal criminal search plus county and state searches.
What is the difference between an FBI check and a federal criminal search?
An FBI check is fingerprint-based and covers arrests reported to the FBI. A federal criminal search is name-based and covers cases filed in U.S. district courts.
How long does an FBI background check take?
Electronic fingerprint results typically arrive within 24–48 hours of your appointment. Federal court searches take 2–3 business days.
Do I need an FBI check for a visa or adoption?
Many immigration, international adoption, and overseas employment processes require an FBI Identity History Summary. Check the requirements of the agency requesting it.
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