how-do-i-get-an-fbi-background-check starts with knowing the correct name: Identity History Summary. This official FBI report shows arrests, convictions, federal employment, naturalization, and military service tied to your fingerprints. You cannot get this report without submitting fingerprints on an FD-258 card. The FBI does not accept background checks from third parties or online databases. Only fingerprint-based requests go into the national database. The process takes 3–10 business days depending on how you submit. There are three main ways: online through the FBI’s portal, by mail, or through an approved channeler. Each method requires the same forms, fee, and fingerprint quality. The cost is always $18 paid directly to the FBI. You’ll receive a PDF by email or a hard copy by mail. This report is often needed for jobs, licenses, immigration, or adoption.
What Is an FBI Background Check?
An FBI background check is officially called an Identity History Summary. It is not a credit report or a general criminal search. It only includes records linked to your fingerprints in the FBI’s national database. This includes arrests, charges, dispositions (even dismissals), federal employment, military service, and naturalization. State and local records may appear if they were sent to the FBI. The summary does not include traffic tickets, civil cases, or records destroyed under state law. It is the most complete federal criminal record available to individuals. Employers, licensing boards, and foreign governments often require it. You must request it yourself—the FBI does not share it with private companies.
Required Forms and Documents
You need two official forms: Form 1-783 (Applicant Information Form) and Form FD-258 (fingerprint card). Both are free and available on the FBI website or through approved providers. Form 1-783 asks for your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, mailing address, and contact details. Form FD-258 must be printed on plain white paper—no colored or glossy paper. You must provide two identical fingerprint cards. The FBI requires duplicates to prevent delays from smudged or unclear prints. Along with the forms, include a clear copy of a government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID). If mailing, add a self-addressed stamped envelope for return. All documents must be legible and unaltered.
How to Get Fingerprints Taken
Fingerprints must be captured on an official FD-258 card. You cannot draw them yourself. Go to an FBI-approved live-scan location or a fingerprinting agency. Many police departments, sheriff’s offices, and private services offer this. Some pharmacies and UPS stores also provide fingerprinting. In Canada, use an RCMP-accredited agency like the National Pardon Centre. The technician will roll each finger clearly on the card. Make sure there are no smudges, cuts, or missing prints. If the FBI rejects the prints, you must restart the process. Live-scan locations send data electronically, which speeds up processing. Paper submissions take longer due to mailing and manual handling.
Online Submission Through the FBI Portal
The fastest way is the FBI’s Internet Submission System (ISS). Create a secure account at the FBI’s official website. Upload a scanned image of your completed FD-258 card. The scan must be high resolution and in color. Fill in your personal details and upload a copy of your photo ID. Pay the $18 fee with a credit or debit card. The system confirms receipt immediately. The FBI reviews requests in 3–5 business days. You’ll get a PDF of your Identity History Summary by email. This method avoids mail delays and lost packages. It is the most reliable for U.S. residents. Keep your login details safe for future access.
Mail-In Submission Process
If you prefer mail, download and print Forms 1-783 and FD-258. Complete all fields clearly in black ink. Attach two identical fingerprint cards. Include a copy of your photo ID. Pay the $18 fee with a check or money order payable to the FBI. Do not send cash. Add a self-addressed stamped envelope for return. Mail everything to: FBI CJIS Division – Summary Request, 1000 Custer Hollow Road, Clarksburg, WV 26306. Processing takes 7–10 business days after receipt. Delivery is by standard mail, so allow extra time. Track your package if possible. Mail is slower but works for those without internet access.
Using an FBI-Approved Channeler
Channelers are private companies authorized by the FBI to submit requests. They verify your fingerprints and forms before sending to the FBI. This reduces errors and speeds up processing. Many offer electronic delivery in 3–5 days. Channelers charge an extra fee (usually $10–$20) on top of the $18 FBI fee. Some provide apostille services or international shipping. Choose only FBI-approved channelers listed on the official FBI website. Avoid unverified sites that promise instant results. Channelers are helpful for people abroad or those needing certified copies. They do not have faster access—processing time depends on the FBI.
Processing Times and Delivery
Online and channeler submissions take 3–5 business days. Mail-in requests take 7–10 business days after the FBI receives them. Holidays and high volume can cause delays. The FBI does not offer rush service. You’ll receive your report as a PDF by email or a hard copy by mail. The PDF is official and accepted by most employers and agencies. If you need a wet-ink signature or raised seal, request a mailed copy. Keep your report secure—it contains sensitive personal data. Do not share it publicly. If you lose it, you must request a new one.
FBI Background Check for International Use
Many countries require an apostille for FBI reports. An apostille is a certification that verifies the document for use abroad. You must first get your Identity History Summary. Then submit it to the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Authentications. Include a notarized request, copy of your passport, and $20 fee. Processing takes 2–3 weeks. Alternatively, use a private apostille service that handles both steps. They charge $50–$80 total. Some channelers offer bundled apostille services. Check the requirements of the destination country. Not all nations accept U.S. apostilles—some require embassy legalization.
Getting an FBI Background Check from Canada
Canadian residents must use an RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agency. The National Pardon Centre is a common choice. They capture fingerprints on official FD-258 cards. Complete Form 1-783 and include a copy of your passport. Pay the $18 fee in U.S. dollars. Mail the packet to the FBI’s address or use a cross-border channeler. Processing takes 8–10 business days. The report is mailed to your Canadian address or emailed as a PDF. Some provinces require additional provincial checks. The FBI report only covers federal records in the U.S.
Correcting Errors on Your FBI Report
If your report has mistakes, you can challenge it. Contact the FBI’s Identity History Summary Challenge process. Submit a written explanation, supporting documents, and a new fingerprint card. The FBI will review and correct errors if confirmed. Do not contact local police—they cannot change FBI records. If the error came from a state agency, notify them too. The FBI works with states to update records. Keep copies of all challenge materials. Processing takes 30–60 days. Corrected reports are sent free of charge.
Costs and Payment Methods
The FBI charges a flat $18 processing fee for all requests. This is non-refundable. Pay online with a credit or debit card. For mail, use a check or money order in U.S. dollars. Do not send cash. Channelers add their own fees, usually $10–$20. Apostille services cost $20–$80 extra. No other fees are required. The FBI does not accept PayPal, Venmo, or cryptocurrency. Beware of websites charging $50+ for “expedited” service—they are not faster. Only the FBI processes these requests.
Common Reasons for Rejection
The FBI may reject your request if fingerprints are smudged, incomplete, or unclear. Forms with missing information, wrong signatures, or illegible writing will be returned. Using the wrong form version or paper type causes delays. Not including a photo ID or payment is a common error. Mailing to the wrong address slows processing. Always double-check before submitting. If rejected, you must restart with new forms and fingerprints. There is no appeal—just resubmit correctly.
Who Needs an FBI Background Check?
People need this report for jobs with federal agencies, security clearances, teaching licenses, nursing boards, and adoption. Foreign governments require it for visas, work permits, or residency. Some states ask for it when applying for professional licenses. It is also used in immigration cases and name change petitions. Private employers may request it for sensitive roles. Always check if a state or local check is enough. The FBI report is only necessary when a national fingerprint search is required.
Difference Between FBI and State Background Checks
A state background check only covers records in that state. It may not include federal crimes or records from other states. An FBI check searches the national database using fingerprints. It shows arrests and convictions nationwide. Some jobs need both. For example, teachers may need a state check for local schools and an FBI check for federal programs. The FBI does not replace state checks—they complement each other. Always follow the employer’s instructions.
Security and Privacy Concerns
Your FBI report contains sensitive personal data. Store it securely. Do not post it online or share it unnecessarily. Use encrypted email if sending digitally. Shred paper copies when no longer needed. The FBI protects your data under federal law. Only you can request your own report. Third parties must have your written permission. Beware of phishing sites pretending to offer FBI checks. Only use the official FBI website or approved channelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask about processing times, fingerprint locations, apostille steps, and correction procedures. Others want to know if they can check someone else’s record (no—only yourself or with written consent). Some ask if the report shows expunged records (it may, depending on the state). The FBI does not remove records unless ordered by a court. Always refer to the official FBI page for updates. Avoid unofficial blogs that give outdated advice.
Official FBI Contact Information
For questions, contact the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services Division. Phone: 304-625-3878. Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET. Email: identity@fbi.gov. Mail: FBI CJIS Division, 1000 Custer Hollow Road, Clarksburg, WV 26306. Website: https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks. Do not call local FBI field offices—they do not handle background checks. Use only official channels to avoid scams.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Many people wonder how long the FBI background check takes, what forms are needed, and whether they can use digital fingerprints. Others ask if the report includes dismissed charges, how to fix errors, and if they need an apostille for travel. Below are detailed answers to the most common questions based on current FBI policies and procedures.
How long does it take to get an FBI background check?
The FBI processes online and channeler requests in 3–5 business days. Mail-in submissions take 7–10 business days after receipt. Delivery time depends on your location and method. Email delivery is instant once processed. Mailed copies take 3–7 extra days. Holidays and high volume can delay results. The FBI does not offer expedited service. Plan ahead if you need the report for a deadline. Always submit clean fingerprints and complete forms to avoid rejection.
Can I get someone else’s FBI background check?
No. The FBI only releases Identity History Summaries to the person named on the record. Third parties cannot request it unless they have a signed authorization form and a valid reason, such as a legal guardian or employer with written consent. Even then, the FBI may require additional documentation. Employers cannot request it directly—they must ask the individual to obtain it. This protects privacy under the Privacy Act.
Does the FBI report show expunged or sealed records?
It depends. If a state court ordered a record expunged and notified the FBI, it may be removed. However, not all states send updates. Some expunged records still appear. The FBI does not automatically delete records. If your report shows incorrect or outdated information, you can challenge it. Submit proof of expungement and a new fingerprint card. The FBI will review and correct errors if verified.
What if my fingerprints are rejected?
If the FBI rejects your fingerprints due to smudging, missing prints, or poor quality, they will return your entire packet. You must restart with new forms and fresh fingerprints. There is no partial refund. Use a professional fingerprinting service to avoid issues. Live-scan locations often provide better quality than ink cards. Keep a copy of your submission for tracking.
Do I need an apostille for my FBI background check?
Only if you are using it in a foreign country that requires authentication. An apostille certifies the document for international use. You must first get your FBI report, then submit it to the U.S. Department of State or a private apostille service. The process takes 2–3 weeks and costs $20–$80. Check the requirements of the destination country. Some nations accept the FBI report without an apostille.
Can I use my FBI background check for multiple purposes?
Yes. Once you have the report, you can use it for jobs, licenses, visas, or adoption. There is no expiration date, but some agencies require a recent copy (within 6 months). Keep digital and printed copies secure. Do not alter the document. If you lose it, request a new one. The $18 fee applies each time.
Is there a way to speed up the process?
No. The FBI does not offer rush service. Using the online portal or a channeler is the fastest option. Mail is slower. Avoid third-party sites that claim to expedite—they cannot influence FBI processing times. Submit early and ensure all materials are correct to prevent delays.