Many Ohio employers and licensing boards ask applicants for more than a state level background check. When a national search is required, the request is usually for an FBI background check. Here is what that check covers, how it is processed in Ohio, and how to avoid common delays.
What an FBI Check Covers
An FBI background check searches the national criminal history records maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. These records include arrests and dispositions reported by law enforcement agencies across the country. Because it is fingerprint based, it can locate records from other states that an Ohio only search would not reveal.
This matters for anyone who has lived, worked, or attended school outside Ohio. It is also why many positions involving children, patients, older adults, or sensitive information require a national check.
How FBI Checks Are Processed in Ohio
In Ohio, most fingerprint based FBI checks for employment and licensing are submitted through the Ohio WebCheck system. Your fingerprints are captured electronically at an authorized location and sent through BCI, which forwards the request to the FBI. Results are returned according to the instructions that accompany your submission, which often means they go straight to the requesting employer or agency.
When an FBI Check Is Required
Your employer or board decides which checks you need. Common situations that call for an FBI check include:
- Teaching and school employment
- Nursing and other healthcare licenses
- Childcare and adoption related checks
- Employment with agencies serving vulnerable adults
- Certain professional licenses and certifications
- Applicants who have lived outside Ohio within a set number of years
Some agencies require both a BCI and an FBI check. Ordering both at the same visit is usually the most efficient approach.
How Long Results Take
Electronic submissions are typically much faster than mailed ink cards. That said, processing times vary depending on volume and whether any records require additional review. FBI results often take longer than BCI results. If you are working against a start date, schedule your fingerprinting as early as possible.
Avoiding Rejected Prints
Poor quality fingerprints are one of the most common reasons a check is delayed. Dry skin, worn ridges from manual work, and certain medications can make prints harder to capture. An experienced technician will take the time to get clear images and will retake prints when needed before submission.
What to Bring
Plan to bring:
- A valid, unexpired government issued photo ID
- The reason code or Ohio Revised Code section provided by your employer
- Any recipient information or agency details your employer gave you
- Payment for the checks you need
Schedule Your FBI Check in Youngstown
Our Youngstown office provides FBI and BCI fingerprinting through Ohio WebCheck for individuals and employers across Mahoning, Trumbull, and Columbiana Counties. We review your paperwork before we begin so your submission is correct the first time. Visit our fingerprinting services page to learn more or plan your appointment.
