Fingerprint Background Check: Comprehensive Guide For Employers

Fingerprint background check is a crucial screening technique that uses biometric data to confirm a candidate’s identity and find out if they have a criminal record linked to their fingerprints. Fingerprint background checks provide access to federal and state law enforcement databases, such as the FBI’s Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS), offering a more accurate and trustworthy estimate compared to name-based checks. This provides insight into when and why fingerprint checks are necessary, how the process works, and the rules that must be followed to ensure they make a safe and well-informed hiring decision.

What Is A Fingerprint Background Check?

A fingerprint background check is a type of personal identity and criminal history screening that utilizes a person’s distinctive fingerprint patterns for official law enforcement records for precise verification. It involves capturing a person’s fingerprints and them being compared to government records, such as those in the FBI’s Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS), to identify any prior arrests, crimes, or other relevant records associated with the person. The method is more accurate than name-based checks because fingerprints are unique and difficult to fake an identity, making them a reliable standard for jobs that require high security, licensing, or compliance.

What Is The Purpose Of A Fingerprint Background Check?

The purpose of a fingerprint background check is to provide a highly accurate way of confirming a candidate’s identity and revealing any criminal history by identifying their fingerprints against official law enforcement databases. The process assist with verifying that the person is who they claim to be and helps employers assess any security or legal risks associated with hiring them. It is critical for jobs in sensitive fields, such as healthcare, education, government, and finance, where safety, trust, and adherence to rules are of utmost importance.

Are Fingerprint Background Checks and Name-Based Checks the Same?

No, fingerprint background checks and name-based checks are not the same because they differ in the way they obtain information, accuracy, and depth. A fingerprint background check uses biometric information to search criminal records like the Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS) of the FBI, making the match more accurate and lowering the chance of mistaken identity. A name-based check relies on personal identifiers like name, date of birth, and Social Security number, which makes it more likely to produce inaccurate results. Fingerprint checks are frequently needed for government or high-security jobs due to their higher level of proof. The difference between fingerprint background check and name-based checks relies on the accuracy of the information they provide, and it depends on the company on what they currently require.

What Is The Importance Of A Fingerprint Background Check?

The importance of a fingerprint background check lies in its ability to use biometric data to reliably verify a person’s criminal history, identity, and background in a secure and tamper-proof manner. Fingerprinting minimizes the risk of identity theft and reduces the chances of mistaken identity compared to name-based checks, providing employers with greater confidence when hiring new employees. This process is especially crucial for roles involving vulnerable populations, financial responsibilities, or government clearance, where accurate and comprehensive background checks are essential to ensure safety, compliance, and trust.

How Does A Fingerprint Background Check Work In Employment?

A fingerprint background check is a process used by employers to assess job applicants. It involves taking the applicant’s fingerprints and sending them to approved databases, such as the FBI or state police, to search for any matching records. 

The process begins when a candidate submits their fingerprints using either a Live Scan or ink method. Afterward, the fingerprints are digitized and compared to national and state criminal databases to identify any prior arrests, convictions, or outstanding warrants. Employers use the results of these checks to determine if a candidate is suitable for positions that require a high level of trust or strict adherence to rules. This method ensures that the background check is both accurate and secure.

Is A Fingerprint Background Check Necessary For Hiring Employees?

No, A fingerprint background check is not necessary for hiring employees in most cases, although it is needed in some industries or roles. Fingerprint checks are required for jobs that usually involve high security, access to private data, working with vulnerable populations, or adhering to federal or state regulations, such as in healthcare, education, or law enforcement.

How To Conduct A Fingerprint Background Check?

Below are the steps needed to conduct a fingerprint background check.

1. Obtain Legal Authorization. Employers must obtain written permission from the candidate before taking fingerprints to comply with the law and protect their privacy.
2. Schedule a Fingerprint Appointment. Applicants make an appointment to visit a certified fingerprinting provider, such as a local police department or an authorized vendor.
3. Capture Fingerprints Accurately. Fingerprints must be taken using a Live Scan system or an ink-based method to ensure they are accurate and reduce the risk of rejection.
4. Submit Fingerprints to Relevant Authorities. Fingerprints are sent to federal, state, or local police, or the FBI, for background checks and criminal record checks when they are taken.
5. Review and Act on Results. Employers must carefully evaluate the results sent back and use the information they receive to make informed hiring choices that are fair and legal.

What Are The Records That Appear In a Fingerprint Background Check?

The records that appear in a fingerprint background check include: 

• Identity and Personal Information: A fingerprint background check helps verify that the candidate is who they claim to be by matching their fingerprints against databases, ensuring the accuracy of the information.
• Detailed Criminal History: This includes a comprehensive record of all criminal actions, including arrests, convictions, and charges in various jurisdictions.
• Work History and Professional License: Some fingerprint checks examine a person’s professional licenses, certifications, and past employment to ensure they are qualified for specific roles.
• Civil Court Records: This includes any civil issues, such as lawsuits or judgments, that may affect a person’s ability to obtain certain jobs.

1. Identity And Personal Information

Identity and Personal Information refers to information that is usable to prove someone’s identity, including their name, address, Social Security number, date of birth, and other personal information. The information is necessary to confirm a candidate’s criminal history, job history, or educational background when conducting a background check on a candidate.

2. Detailed Criminal History

A detailed criminal history refers to a comprehensive record of a person’s potential past criminal activities, including arrests, charges, convictions, and the duration of any prison sentences. This information is crucial for evaluating the applicant’s history and determining if they pose a risk or liability for the job, particularly for roles that require trust or security. For example, during a background check, an employer examines a person’s criminal history to determine if they have committed any major crimes, such as felonies or violent offenses, which can impact the hiring decision based on the job requirements and the company’s policies.

3. Work History And Professional License

Work history and professional licenses refer to verifying a person’s past employment and any necessary certifications or licenses. This check verifies that the candidate’s experience and professional history align with their stated qualifications, validating any necessary credentials for the job. For example, an employer checks a job applicant’s employment history, length of employment, and whether they hold a valid professional license to ensure they are qualified and legally authorized to perform the job.

4. Civil Court Records

Civil Court Records refer to legal papers and cases that involve a person but are not linked to criminal activity, including lawsuits, financial disputes, or divorce proceedings. This check provides insight into any current or past civil legal issues the candidate has been involved in, helping employers identify potential risks or concerns related to the candidate.

How Long Does A Fingerprint Background Check Take?

A fingerprint background check takes between 24 hours and a few weeks, based on where the fingerprints are taken and how they are processed. Fingerprint checks tend to take longer due to the complexity of the process and the need for thoroughness, which is a factor in determining the overall duration of a background check.

What Are The Legal And Ethical Issues In Fingerprint Background Checks?

The legal and ethical issues in fingerprint background checks are listed below.

• Consent and Disclosure: Employers must obtain written permission from job applicants before conducting fingerprint background checks. 
• Privacy Violations: Fingerprint background checks involve private information about people, and it can lead to serious privacy violations if that information is handled incorrectly or accessed by people who aren’t supposed to.
• Compliance with State and Federal Laws: Some states have “ban the box” laws or other regulations that limit when and how companies can inquire about an individual’s criminal record. 
• Use of Results: One of the background check legal considerations is the use of results. Employers can use only the results of a fingerprint background check to decide who to hire.  

What Are The Benefits Of a Fingerprint Background Check?

The benefits of a fingerprint background check are listed below.

• Accurate Identity Verification: Biometric data is used to confirm a person’s identity, ensuring accurate verification and reducing the risk of fraud or impersonation.
• Access to Comprehensive Criminal Records: Retrieves criminal records from federal, state, and FBI databases, providing a more comprehensive picture than regular background checks.
• Compliance with Industry Regulations: Helps employers meet regulatory standards for positions in law enforcement, healthcare, finance, and child care.
• Long-Term Risk Mitigation: One of the benefits of background check is long-term risk mitigation. Reduces potential liability for bad hiring by thoroughly screening job applicants.

How Can Shield Screening Assist In Fingerprint Background Check?

Shield Screening can significantly enhance fingerprint background checks by providing comprehensive and accurate results through its services. They offer fingerprint capture through various options, including Live Scan and FBI Channeling, and access state and federal databases to match fingerprints against criminal records and other relevant information. This ensures thoroughness and compliance with legal and regulatory standards, helping organizations make informed hiring decisions and mitigate potential risks.