Identity History Summary Checks
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) now allows individuals to obtain "Identity History Summary Checks". Also known as a "FBI Report", Identity History Summary Checks are basically reviews or proofs that criminal records may or may not exist for individuals. The US Department of Justice Order 556-73, also known as Departmental Order, has established guidelines and procedures for this.
The Identity History Summary Checks are done by individuals seeking their "personal record review" typically for:
- Challenge Information on Record
- Child Adoption
- Work Visa/Student Visa
- Immigration
- Foreign Residency/Travel
- Attorney Request
Background Checks for Employment or Licensing
The FBI's Identity History Summary Checks are typically NOT for employment or licensing purposes within the United States. In most cases the applicant are required by applicable state statute and/or federal law when submitting the background check request through the state's identification bureau, the requesting federal agency, or other authorized (channeling) agencies. It is recommended that applicants contact their requesting agency that is seeking the fingerprinting submission to ensure the appropriate method is followed.
Also Know As...
Other names for the FBI Identity History Summary Checks are Federal Police Clearances, Rap Sheets, Criminal Background Checks, Police Certificates, or even Police Clearance Certificates, just to name a few.
Obtaining Identity History Summary Checks
One of most surprising aspects of obtaining a FBI Identity History Summary Check is the time frame. In the past the only way to obtain a FBI Report is by getting fingerprinted on FD-258 Fingerprint Ink Cards. Once fingerprinted, applicants will need to send their FD-258 Ink Cards directly to the FBI and wait, and wait, and wait for their FBI Report to show up on their door steps. This waiting game is typically about 12-14 weeks. The price for this process is $18 plus the cost for getting fingerprinted.
FBI-Approved Channelers
If the waiting game is not the popular here, then perhaps paying extra for a FBI-approved Channeling service to expedite your request is the best option. When using FBI-approved Channeling services, obtaining FBI Identity History Summary Checks will take about 1-3 days on average for completion.
FBI-approved Channelers have be contracted by the FBI to assist in expediting the delivery of Identity History Summary Checks on behalf of the FBI. A list of a FBI-approved Channelers can be found on the FBI's website.
National Live Scan Association
Members of the National Live Scan Association (NLSA) can assist those seeking to get fingerprinted in obtaining their FBI Identity History Summary Checks. Based on the urgency of time, obtaining FBI Identity History Summary Checks be accomplished via Ink Card Fingerprinting or Live Scan Fingerprinting. Contact the National Live Scan Association (http://NationalLiveScan.org) to learn more, 888.498.4234.
