What Shows Up on an FBI Fingerprint Check?
Whether you’re applying for a job, seeking immigration benefits, or undergoing a security clearance process, an FBI fingerprint background check may be a critical part of your screening. But what exactly shows up on an FBI fingerprint check?
At PacSigning, we help individuals and businesses navigate this process with confidence. In this guide, we’ll break down what an FBI fingerprint check includes, how it’s used, and what you can do if there’s something on your report you weren’t expecting.
What Is an FBI Fingerprint Background Check?
An FBI fingerprint check—also known as an Identity History Summary (IdHS)—is a comprehensive background screening tool used by government agencies, employers, and licensing authorities to verify an individual’s criminal and sometimes employment history.
When your fingerprints are submitted to the FBI’s Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS), they are cross-referenced with millions of records to produce a detailed report.
What Information Shows Up on an FBI Fingerprint Check?
Here’s what typically appears on your report:
🔹 Arrest Records
The most common type of information found on an FBI fingerprint background check includes details of any arrests made by local, state, or federal authorities. Each entry may include:
- The date of arrest
- The arresting agency
- The charges filed
- Disposition (if known)
Even if you were never convicted, the arrest may still appear.
🔹 Criminal Charges and Convictions
If you’ve been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, those charges and their outcomes will show up. Details include:
- Type of offense (misdemeanor, felony, infraction)
- Court name and case number
- Sentencing information
- Probation or parole history
In some cases, dismissed charges may also be listed unless sealed or expunged.
🔹 Warrants and Outstanding Cases
If you have any outstanding warrants or pending charges, they are likely to show up on your report. Agencies may take this into consideration when making decisions on employment or approval.
🔹 Federal Employment and Military Records
Your federal employment history (including military service), especially positions involving security clearances or sensitive duties, may appear in the report.
🔹 Deportation or Immigration Violations
If applicable, any violations tied to immigration enforcement—such as deportation orders—can also be noted.
🔹 Sealed or Expunged Records
In most cases, records that have been legally sealed or expunged will not show up. However, certain government entities (such as immigration services or federal employers) may still access sealed records depending on the purpose of the background check.
What Does Not Show Up on an FBI Fingerprint Check?
- Credit reports or financial history
- Education records
- Employment history (unless federal employment)
- Medical records
- Civil court judgments (unless tied to a criminal matter)
These types of checks fall under civil background checks, not criminal fingerprint checks.
How Far Back Do FBI Fingerprint Checks Go?
There is no time limitation. An FBI fingerprint check shows a complete history of arrests and convictions that were reported to the FBI, even if they are decades old. However, the accuracy and completeness of this information depend on how local agencies reported it.
Why Is an FBI Fingerprint Check Required?
FBI background checks are often mandated for:
- Immigration and naturalization applications
- Adoptions (domestic and international)
- Security clearances and federal employment
- Licensing (teachers, healthcare, law enforcement, etc.)
- Working with children, the elderly, or vulnerable populations
- Visa or travel-related processes
How to Get Your FBI Fingerprint Check
There are two primary ways to submit fingerprints:
- Via an FBI-Approved Channeler:
These are third-party agencies authorized to collect and submit fingerprints electronically.
- Direct Submission to the FBI:
You can submit FD-258 fingerprint cards by mail, but this process takes longer.
At PacSigning, we work with trusted partners and channelers to ensure you get your results quickly and securely.
How Long Do Results Take?
- Electronic submissions: 24–72 hours
- Mailed FD-258 cards: 2–6 weeks
Choosing a provider like PacSigning allows you to get results faster and with fewer errors.
What If There’s a Mistake on Your Report?
If your background check includes inaccurate or outdated information:
- Request your Identity History Summary from the FBI.
- File a correction request through the FBI or relevant law enforcement agency.
- Provide official documentation such as court orders or dismissal papers.
You have the legal right to challenge and correct erroneous records.
How PacSigning Ensures Accuracy
At PacSigning, we offer:
- Live scan and ink fingerprinting
- Mobile fingerprinting services for your convenience
- Error-free capture with trained technicians
- Fast turnaround through approved FBI channelers
- Appointment flexibility for individuals and organizations
Whether you’re applying for immigration, a job, or professional licensing, we provide accurate and hassle-free fingerprinting services tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will a dismissed charge show up on an FBI fingerprint check?
Yes, it may still show up unless it was expunged or sealed.
Q: Does traffic court or speeding tickets appear on the report?
No, unless the offense resulted in a criminal charge (e.g., DUI or reckless driving).
Q: Can I get a copy of my own report?
Yes. You can request your Identity History Summary directly from the FBI for personal review or to correct records.
Q: Is the check the same as a background check for employment?
Not always. FBI fingerprint checks focus on criminal records; civil background checks may include credit, employment, and more.
Schedule Your Fingerprint Appointment Today
Whether you’re applying for immigration, security clearance, or licensing, PacSigning makes your FBI fingerprinting process fast, secure, and stress-free.
👉 Book your appointment today at https://www.pacsigning.com or contact us for mobile fingerprinting options across Oregon and beyond.