What Appears on an Employer’s Background Check?

You applied to your dream job. You nailed the interview. Now, your employer is running a background check – and you’re nervous.

What appears on an employer’s background check? How far back do employer background checks go? Will employers be able to see a random arrest from when you were a teenager?

Today, we’re explaining everything you need to know about what appears – and what does not appear – on a typical employer background check.

Employment Verification: Your new employer will contact past employers to verify you worked there.

Education and License Check: Did you really graduate from college with a 4.0 GPA? Some employers contact schools to verify your education. Employers may also check licensing organizations and other regulatory bodies.

Criminal Record: Most employers run some type of background check on all new employees. 13 states prevent employers from viewing information older than seven years. Most states, however, allow employers to view any public information. Arrest records, misdemeanors, felonies, and other information can all appear on a criminal record.

Identity Verification: Some people use fake names or aliases to infiltrate an organization. Employers will check your identity to verify you have a validly issued ID, and that your information matches your name. Your employer may ask for a driver’s license, passport, or other piece of government-issued photo ID.

Driving Record: If your job requires driving a company vehicle, then your employer may run a driving record check. Your employer will check your motor vehicle record (MVR) from your local authority (like your DMV). Any DUIs or similar convictions may appear, as will speeding tickets, citations, fines, penalties, and other infractions.

Drug Use: Employers may require a drug screening before hiring you. In this situation, you may need to visit a clinic or lab to provide a urine, saliva, or hair sample. Your employer will receive a report highlighting any drug usage – including legal or illegal drugs, prescription medication, and more.

Employers can legally request this information – although they generally need your permission to do so. Employers must also work with a Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) registered agency to run a background check.