Federal Background Check
Federal Background Check Online
Learn how to request a federal identity history summary online, what it includes, when fingerprints are required, and what other official sources you may still need.
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Check Guide:
Your Starting Point
Confirm the correct federal route and whether it can be done online.
Quick Answer
- Yes, you can start a federal identity history summary request online; fingerprints are still required.
- This federal report is about you and is not a nationwide search of all state and local records.
- If a form asks for state or court records, use state criminal history repositories and court case searches too.
Best Start Route
title
FBI identity history summary route
best for
People asked for a “federal background check” or who want to self-check their federal-level record.
why this is usually first
It is the official federal personal criminal-history route and can be initiated online with identity verification and fingerprints.
when to move on
Move to state criminal history repositories and court index searches if a requestor needs specific state or case-level records not covered federally.
Official vs Private Sources
| Check Type | Best For | What It Shows | Main Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| FBI identity history summary route | A federal-level self background check when asked for a 'federal background check.' | Your identity-linked federal record history as maintained at the federal level. | Does not replace state repository checks or detailed court dockets. |
| state criminal history repository route | Jobs or licenses that require a state-level record or statewide self-check. | Arrest or conviction data reported within that state. | Covers only one state and may exclude some court outcomes. |
| court index and case-search route | Verifying cases, dispositions, or recent filings in specific courts. | Case listings, charges, and outcomes where available. | Not a background check; availability and identifiers vary by court. |
| commercial background-check site | Convenient name-based screening when official sources are not required. | Compiled public data and past addresses from many places. | Not an official federal record and can miss or misattribute records. |
Access Notes
- The federal route requires fingerprints; online submission begins the process, but identity proof is still needed.
- A federal report is not a nationwide catch‑all; add state repositories and court searches if required.
- Name-only searches risk mismatches; use full legal name, date of birth, and addresses to confirm identity.
- Self-check first; if something looks wrong, follow the listed correction process for that specific source.
Search Flow
Confirm Need
Verify the request calls for a federal identity history summary, not a state or court record.
Start Online
Begin the FBI identity history summary request online and prepare to submit fingerprints as instructed.
Add Sources
If needed, run a state criminal history repository search and check court indexes where relevant.
Micro FAQ
Is a federal background check the same as a nationwide search?
No. The federal identity history summary is federal-level. You may still need state repository and court checks.
Can I order a federal check on someone else online?
Generally no. The official route is for your own record, and third-party access is restricted.
Do I need fingerprints for the federal request?
Yes. You start online but must provide fingerprints digitally or by mail as directed.
Will federal results include local court dockets?
Not usually. For case details, search the relevant court index or records office.