If you live in the Volunteer State and you’re curious about how to get a Tennessee background check, you’ve come to the right place.
Employers, landlords, and others use it to check criminal records, see how good of a driver you are (or aren’t), where you were employed, and more.
We’ll tell you how to get a Tennessee background check today, including where to get it from and what you can expect from the process.
Need a Background Check?
What Is a Tennessee Background Check?
A background check is a detailed report. Employers, landlords, and even the general public use it to make informed decisions. A pre-employment background screening is crucial for job applications.
Tennessee background checks are subject to federal, state, and local laws that uphold fair hiring practices. That includes laws in Davidson county as well as Hamilton, and Shelby.
Conducting criminal background checks is essential to avoid liability. Felony arrests and serious criminal records are reported for a set period to balance public safety with candidates’ privacy.
What Are the Background Check Laws and Regulations in Tennessee?
Employers and job applicants need to know the appropriate laws about checking someone’s background. Transparency is the best policy for all parties involved.
Employers must follow both federal and state laws when obtaining a Tennessee background report. The laws protect applicant rights and also give employers the information they need to hire.
Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
The FCRA regulates how credit agencies can collect and use your data. This includes credit history, criminal past, and other data.
Employers must get written consent before checking someone’s background. The candidate should receive a copy of the report and a summary of rights. An employer must do this if they take adverse action based on the information they find out.
Tennessee Public Records Act
According to the Tennessee Public Records Act, employers can request access to public records. Limits exist on what details they see and how they can use what they know. One of the biggest examples of this involves a person’s criminal history information.
Local Fair Hiring Laws
Some cities and counties in Tennessee have extra rules that promote fair hiring. There are some things an employer can’t do early on while screening potential employees.
For example, an applicant does not have to provide their social media account passwords in an employer’s presence or details about a criminal past.
- Fair Hiring Laws in Tennessee: Uphold equal job opportunities statewide and in the public sector, guided by federal laws like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or candidate’s age (40 or older).
- Local Ordinances: Cities and counties in Tennessee enforce additional fair hiring ordinances, complementing state and federal regulations.
- Davidson County’s “Ban the Box” Policy: Delays criminal history checks until later in the hiring process to offer applicants with prior records a fair chance at employment.
- Shelby County’s Emphasis on Qualifications: Prioritizes evaluating applicants based on qualifications before considering criminal background checks, ensuring transparency and fairness in hiring practices.
Tennessee Ban the Box Law
Tennessee has a “Ban the Box” law. It stops public employers from asking about criminal histories on initial job applications.
This law aims to give individuals a fair chance at employment. Candidates cannot become ineligible immediately due to past criminal activity either.
Tennessee County Resources
Tennessee counties have a lot of public information and records. These are crucial for comprehensive background checks. These resources can be invaluable.
They have detailed information on a person’s history. They are for employers, landlords, and individuals. Here’s how you can access and utilize these records:
- Davidson County: Online access to criminal records, court documents, and civil judgments through the county clerk’s office.
- Shelby County: Public records, including criminal background checks and civil court records are accessible via the county government website.
- Knox County: Access to public documents, including criminal history checks and civil judgments, via the county clerk’s office.
- Hamilton County: Offers public records, including criminal background information and court documents, with an online search tool available.
How Do I Get a Background Check in Tennessee?
Getting a background screening is essential for employers to comply with the law. At the end of the day, it keeps everyone safe.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the background screening process:
- Visit the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) Website: Head to the TBI website to start your background check process. Look for the section on getting a Tennessee background check.
- Fill Out the Request Form: Complete the check background request form. You’ll need to provide personal information such as name, date of birth, and telephone number. Ensure all details are accurate to avoid delays.
- Submit Your Fingerprints: Go to a local police department or a TBI office to submit your fingerprints. This step is important for a thorough criminal background check. In Hamilton, Shelby, and Davidson county, they have designated locations for fingerprinting.
- Pay the Processing Fee: There’s a fee to get background checks processed. The cost varies depending on the type of check you need. Make sure you pay the fee online or at the location where you submit your fingerprints.
- Wait for the Results: After submitting all the necessary materials, wait for the results. The turnaround time isn’t set in stone. Standard Tennessee background checks might take a few days, while more detailed checks could take up to two weeks.
What Shows Up on a Tennessee Background Check?
A Tennessee background check today contains all kinds of significant information about a person’s past. Here’s what you can typically expect to show up on the report:
- Criminal History Records Check: Criminal checks reveal all offenses, whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony. Private and public sector employers must use this information in accordance with fair hiring laws.
- Employment History: Tennessee employers will verify who you’ve worked for so they can confirm your work history. Doing so helps assure them that you have the experience you claim to possess. This background check process highlights gaps in employment and reasons for leaving previous jobs.
- Education History: Tennessee background checks can also verify your educational qualifications. The records will disclose high school diplomas and college degrees. An education check is common for jobs with school children.
- Credit Checks: For positions associated with financial responsibility, or if you need to borrow cash, employers and lenders might conduct credit checks. A credit report demonstrates your financial stability and outlines your credit history. It’s crucial for jobs in the public sector and other sensitive roles.
- Social Media Accounts: Some private and public sector employers look at your social accounts to gauge your personality and behavior. While this is a more modern approach, it’s becoming increasingly common in the hiring procedure.
How Far Back Does a Background Check Go in Tennessee?
A Tennessee background check covers a seven-year lookback for non-conviction information. The period of time varies depending on the type of check and the federal or state law stipulations.
Criminal History
The rules are different for a criminal background check. Criminal convictions are reported indefinitely. Pre-employment background checks can go beyond the seven-year lookback period for several reasons.
If a job offers an annual salary over $75,000, the employer may need more thorough checks of an applicant’s criminal history. Also, some public sector jobs require extensive checks.
How Long Does a Background Check Take in Tennessee?
Checking someone’s history requires careful planning. If you were trying to get a Tennessee background check today, the results would not be immediately available.
The turnaround time varies because it is contingent on the type of check, the resources used, and county rules. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect:
Standard Pre-Employment Background Checks
A standard background review in Tennessee typically verifies employment history and educational credentials. It usually takes one to three business days for completion.
The procedure to gather this information can be time-consuming. It depends on the responsiveness of past employers and schools. Engaging a dependable third-party service can expedite this process.
Criminal Background Check
A background check in Tennessee includes criminal history records. An online database handles them, and it takes about three to five business days. It might take longer in some areas due to local procedures.
Tennessee criminal background checks follow federal and state law. The results must remain confidential.
Employment Screenings
Private and public sector employers conduct background checks according to state and federal law. It usually takes two to five business days.
How Much Does a Background Check in Tennessee Cost?
A basic background check typically costs $10 to $50. It includes work and education history. A more comprehensive check costs $50 to $100. County-specific checks usually add $15 to $25 per county.
Compliance with background check regulations can increase costs for public sector employers. $200 or more, these checks tend to be comprehensive.
Using a third-party company for background screenings can add an extra $20 to $50 per screening. Companies like those streamline the check process but come with their own fees.
Additional searches, such as credit or civil, might add $10 to $30 per check. Adverse action notifications, if required, may also incur extra costs. In summary, background checks in Tennessee cost from $10 to $200.
Where to Get a Background Check in Tennessee?
Here are ways to get a background check in Tennessee. The method depends on the type of info you need.
- The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) offers personal account services. They’re for basic criminal checks in Tennessee.
- Local law enforcement agencies have county-specific information. Contact these agencies or visit their official websites. They can provide details specific to local fair hiring laws.
- Tennessee’s Department of Safety and Homeland Security offers resources. They serve public sector employers and qualified organizations. The department can use these resources for more specialized checks.
- Third-party companies can help speed up background checks, but unless they are FCRA compliant, you only can use them for personal purposes and basic searches.
Best Background Check Services
Several trusted websites stand out for their reliable and thorough background checks. Here are some of the best options, each with its own strengths and potential drawbacks.
- TruthFinder: Best for Comprehensive Reports
- Instant Checkmate: Best for Quick Searches
- BeenVerified: Best for User Experience
TruthFinder provides detailed results. The agency covers criminal records, past employment, education verification, and social accounts. Users recognize this service by its intuitive design and vast information store. It’s one of the safest and easiest ways to get the details you need to know about someone. Star Rating / 5.0 Instant Checkmate is ideal for those needing fast and straightforward background checks. It covers a lot of info. This includes background checks and criminal histories. It’s particularly beneficial for users seeking immediate results. Star Rating / 5.0 BeenVerified offers an excellent user experience with clear, concise reports. It’s perfect for those who need reliable and accessible information. BeenVerified is also known for its quick mobile app. It makes doing your pre-employment background screenings a breeze. Star Rating / 5.0
Pros
Detailed and comprehensive reports
Easy-to-use interface
Access to deep web information
Cons
Requires a subscription for full reports
Non-FCRA compliant
Pros
Quick and easy searches
Covers criminal records and personal details
Affordable subscription plans
Cons
Some reports may include outdated information
Non-FCRA compliant
Pros
Simple and intuitive user interface
Mobile app for on-the-go checks
Wide range of information
Cons
Monthly subscription required
Non-FCRA compliant
Recap on Tennessee Background Check
It’s easy to get a Tennessee background check. First, know and understand the applicable laws at every level. Thorough research will help to avoid any potential liability.
Consider the costs and what you need to know so you can make the best decision to suit your needs. Remember that transparency and following the rules are the keys to success.
Disclaimer: Some background check sites are just for personal use and conducting basic people searches. Others, such as those used by potential employers, must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). This law limits the types of information you can find on other people. If you’re an employer or landlord using a background check for professional purposes, be sure to choose a site that’s FCRA compliant. Using a people search site that doesn’t comply with the FCRA to screen potential tenants, domestic workers or employees is illegal.
The information available on our website may not be 100% accurate, complete, or up to date, so do not use it as a substitute for your own due diligence, especially if you have concerns about a person’s criminal history. The services we mention do not make any representation or warranty about the accuracy of the information available through our website or about the character or integrity of the person about whom you inquire. For more information, please review each service’s Terms of Use.
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Published : August 20,2024
Published : August 20,2024