What is Included on a Criminal Background Check?
- Some criminal background checks will search public records for outstanding arrest warrants. If the background check only searches a certain state, it may not show warrants issued in other states.
- Most criminal background checks will show a person's arrest record for the past seven years. Some states seal arrest records unless the person is awaiting trial for the arrest.
- Misdemeanor convictions are usually included on background checks, though some companies do not report misdemeanors. Some states seal convictions for drug possession or if a certain amount of time passes.
- Felonies are the most serious of convictions and will be reported on standard background checks. Almost all criminal background checks report felony convictions, regardless of how old the conviction is.
- Criminal background checks typically search sex offender registries. Applicants applying for government jobs or positions working with children will be checked for sex offenses.
Warrants
Arrests
Misdemeanors
Felonies
Sex Offenses
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