The Mahoning Valley sits right on the Pennsylvania border, and thousands of people live in one state and work in the other. If you live in Mercer County, Lawrence County, or elsewhere in western Pennsylvania and have accepted a job or license in Ohio, you may need an Ohio fingerprint background check. Here is what you need to know.

Can Pennsylvania Residents Use Ohio WebCheck

Yes. Ohio WebCheck is based on where the check is being submitted and who requires it, not where you live. If an Ohio employer or licensing board requires a BCI or FBI check, you can complete it at an authorized Ohio WebCheck location such as our Youngstown office.

Why an FBI Check Is Often Required

Because a BCI check searches Ohio records, it may not reveal history from Pennsylvania. Many Ohio employers and boards require an FBI check for applicants who have lived outside Ohio within a certain number of years. As a Pennsylvania resident, you should expect that an FBI check will likely be part of your requirement. Confirm with your employer before your appointment.

What to Bring

• A valid government issued photo ID, including a Pennsylvania driver’s license or ID card
• The Ohio reason code or Ohio Revised Code section from your employer or board
• Recipient information for your results
• Payment for the checks required

Your out of state ID is perfectly acceptable as long as it is valid and unexpired.

Pennsylvania Clearances Are Separate

Working in Ohio does not replace any Pennsylvania clearances you may need for work in Pennsylvania, and Pennsylvania clearances do not automatically satisfy Ohio requirements. If you work in both states, such as a teacher who coaches across the border or a nurse with jobs in both states, you may need checks in each state. Ask each employer exactly what they require.

Convenient for Border Communities

Our Youngstown office is a short drive from Hermitage, Sharon, Farrell, Sharpsville, New Castle, and other western Pennsylvania communities. Many of our clients cross the state line every day for work, and we understand the questions that come with working in two states.

Tips for a Smooth Process

• Ask your Ohio employer whether both BCI and FBI checks are required
• Confirm the reason code in writing
• Allow time for FBI results, which can take longer than BCI results
• Keep your receipt until results are confirmed

Schedule Your Ohio Background Check

We provide BCI and FBI fingerprinting through Ohio WebCheck for Pennsylvania residents working in Ohio, as well as ink fingerprint cards for agencies that require them. Visit our fingerprinting services page to learn more.

This article provides general information only. Your employer or licensing board determines the specific checks you need.