How Long Does a Police Background Check Take?
When applying for a job, volunteering, or securing a lease, many people are asked to undergo a police background check. While it may seem like an inconvenience, background checks play a crucial role in maintaining public safety and protecting private property. So, how long does a police background check take?
Answer Directly
The time it takes for a police background check can vary greatly, depending on the specific situation and the agency conducting the check. Here’s a general breakdown of the steps involved and the estimated processing times:
- Submission and Processing (0-7 days)
- Police reports: Typically takes 3-5 days
- State repositories: Takes 5-10 days
- FBI fingerprint background check: Takes 24 hours to 7 business days
- Quality Control Review (7-14 days)
- Reviewing accuracy and completeness: Can take up to 10-14 days
- Adjudication (14-30 days)
- **Expedited: 10-15 business days
- Regular processing: 14-30 business days
- Background Check Result Report (24-120 days)
- Instant background checks: No waiting
- Standard background checks: Results available in 3-10 days
In most cases, the total duration of a police background check can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks or even months.
What Affects Background Check Processing Time?
Several factors can impact the speed of a background check:
• Agency Processing Time: Local law enforcement, state agencies, or third-party background check companies each have their own processing timelines.
• Background Check Type: Standard: Typically takes longer due to manual reviews, instant: Usually takes shorter amounts of time as automated and computer-generated reports.
• Case Volume: The number of background checks being processed can significantly slow down the timeline.
• Public Holiday Closures: When administrative offices are closed for federal or state holidays, it can cause delays in background check processing.
Step-by-Step Background Check Process
Here’s an overview of the process to help you understand the individual steps and their typical turnaround times:
| Step | Duration (days) |
|---|---|
| Report Submission | 1 |
| Report Review and Approval | 2-4 |
| Background Check Inquiry | 2-6 |
| Background Check Retrieval | 4-8 |
| Result Submission | 2 |
Note: The times mentioned in the table are estimates, and actual processing times may vary.
Factors Influencing Delayed Processing Time
To avoid or reduce delays in the background check process:
• Double-check submitted information: Accuracy is crucial. Fingerprints need to match identifying data (name, birthday, and Social Security Number).
• Prefer electronic submission: FAX, mail, and hard-copy submissions may result in slower processing.
• Use an expedited or express service: Certain private companies and law enforcement agencies offer faster processing for a fee.
Final Notes
Keep in mind:
• Timely update: Changes to criminal record or legal status might extend the background check timeframe.
• Re-running a background check:** Unusual cases, inaccurate initial results, or newly submitted information might trigger an urgent re-check.
Conversely, it is best to check with the requesting authority, police department, or private entity conducting the background check about their specific procedures, estimates, and requirements. Transparency and open communication will aid you in managing your expectations.
