FBI Identity History Summary Check: Need to Knows

An FBI Identity History Summary Check, also known as an FBI Background Check or FBI Rap Sheet, is a detailed report of an individual’s criminal history. This summary is compiled from data submitted to the FBI from various local, national or international authorities, usually in the form of fingerprints, and is often requested for purposes like employment screening, immigration, travel, and personal use. 

In certain cases, applicants may request the FBI Rap Sheet obtain an Apostille from the US State Department. 

1. What Is an FBI Identity History Summary Check?

An FBI Identity History Summary Check is a formal document that outlines an individual’s past criminal record based on fingerprint submissions. It includes information such as arrest records, federal employment, naturalization details, and any involvement in criminal proceedings. If there is no criminal record, the report will simply state that there is no information. 

The report only reflects data that has been officially submitted to the FBI. The report states that it does not include information from local law enforcement agencies unless submitted to the FBI’s database. However, in many cases local arrest data will be there. But in other cases, it may not be. There is no absolute guarantee that all local arrest information will be there. So if you really want to be sure of your record, it’s best to obtain both a California Background Check and FBI Background Check.  Therefore, while it is a comprehensive check, it might not cover every possible criminal history unless specifically tied to federal cases or those that involve fingerprinting.

2. Who Needs an FBI Identity History Summary Check?

An FBI background check can be required for a variety of reasons, depending on the individual’s needs and goals. Here are some common examples:

Job Seekers:

People applying for positions in federal or state government agencies, as well as private companies that handle sensitive information, frequently require an FBI background check to ensure that they meet strict employment criteria.

Immigrants and Expats:

Those applying for visas or permanent residency in the U.S. or abroad are often asked to provide an FBI Identity History Summary Check. Countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK may require an FBI background check as part of their residency or work visa application process.

Personal Record Verification:

If you’re unsure about the accuracy of your criminal record or simply want to verify your personal history, you can request an FBI Identity History Summary Check for your own records. This can be particularly helpful if you want to dispute inaccurate entries.

3. Purpose for obtaining an FBI Background Check

Employment Screening:

Many jobs require a thorough review of an individual’s criminal history, particularly in fields such as government, finance, healthcare, and childcare. Employers want to ensure they are hiring someone with a clean record or, at minimum, no serious offenses that would hinder their ability to perform the job responsibly.

Visa and Immigration Applications:

When moving to a different country for work or residency, certain immigration programs ask for FBI background checks to confirm the applicant’s criminal history. A clean FBI Identity History Summary can demonstrate that the person poses no security risk.

Travel Requirements:

Some countries require FBI background checks for individuals applying for work or long-term visas. Countries with stringent entry or residency requirements may request proof of a clean criminal record before granting permission to stay.

Name Changes and Record Disputes:

Individuals who are in the process of legally changing their name may be required to provide an FBI Identity History Summary Check to ensure that the name change is not an attempt to avoid legal proceedings.

Personal Use:

People also request FBI background checks to ensure that their records are correct. This can be useful in instances where you may dispute information or if you simply want a personal copy for peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long is an FBI background check valid for?

The answer is that  it’s up to the organization you are submitting it to. An FBI Identity History Summary Check does not have an official expiration date, but many organizations, such as immigration services, require that the check be recent (usually within the last 6 months).  

2. What is the difference between an FBI Identity History Summary Check and other background checks?

An FBI Identity History Summary Check is based on fingerprint data submitted to the FBI, while other background checks may include local police records or court databases. The FBI check is often more comprehensive for federal-level information. It also includes information from international databases such as Interpol.

3. Can someone else request my FBI background check on my behalf?

No. You must appear in person with valid government issued photo identification. However, after submitting your fingerprints, it is ok to have your record emailed to your agent, such as your attorney.  

4. What happens if I have no criminal history?

If no criminal history is found, your FBI Identity History Summary will indicate that there is no record associated with your fingerprints.

5. Can I submit fingerprints from outside the U.S.?

Yes, non-U.S. residents can submit fingerprint cards from outside the U.S. using authorized third-party services or directly through the FBI.