One of the most common questions we hear from applicants is simple: do I need a BCI check, an FBI check, or both? The answer depends on the job, license, or program you are applying for. Understanding the difference between the two will help you order the right check the first time and avoid paying for a second visit.

The BCI Check

BCI stands for the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation. A BCI check searches Ohio criminal history records using your fingerprints. It is the standard state level check required by many Ohio employers and licensing boards.

The FBI Check

An FBI check searches national criminal history records maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It can identify records from other states that would not appear in an Ohio only search.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Scope: BCI covers Ohio records, while FBI covers national records.
• Who requires it: Many Ohio positions require BCI, while positions involving vulnerable populations or applicants with out of state history often require FBI as well.
• Processing time: BCI results are often returned faster, while FBI results can take somewhat longer.
• Submission: In Ohio, both are commonly submitted electronically through the Ohio WebCheck system.

When You Need Both

Many requirements call for both checks together. This is common for teachers, school staff, nurses, healthcare workers, childcare providers, and adoption or foster care applicants. Some employers also require an FBI check only for applicants who have lived outside Ohio within a specific number of years. When both are required, ordering them together during one appointment saves time.

How to Find Out Which One You Need

The organization requesting your background check is the best source of truth. Ask them for:

• Which checks are required, BCI, FBI, or both
• The reason code or Ohio Revised Code section for the check
• Where the results should be sent
• Any deadline for receiving results

Get these details in writing whenever possible. A check submitted under the wrong code may not be accepted by your employer, and in many cases it cannot simply be transferred to a different purpose.

What If You Are Not Sure

If your employer cannot answer right away, do not guess. Waiting a day to confirm the correct requirement is better than paying for the wrong check. Our staff can also explain the common requirements for many professions, although the final decision always rests with the requesting agency.

Fingerprinting Made Simple

At our Youngstown office, we provide both BCI and FBI fingerprinting through Ohio WebCheck. We review your paperwork before capturing prints, confirm the reason code, and take the time to collect clear fingerprint images so your submission is not rejected for quality. We serve applicants throughout Boardman, Canfield, Poland, Austintown, Warren, Niles, Hubbard, and the greater Mahoning Valley.

To get started, visit our fingerprinting services page and bring your ID and employer instructions to your appointment.