District of Columbia Background Check: Timelines, Laws & More

Background checks are important for verifying an individual’s history, whether for employment, housing, or security purposes. In the District of Columbia, these checks play an important role in maintaining safety and fairness by uncovering information such as criminal records and employment history.

This article will guide you through the procedures to obtain a background check, highlight what information typically appears, explain the relevant federal law, and recommend the best services for conducting these checks.

What Are the Background Check Laws in the District of Columbia?

Understanding the background check laws in the District of Columbia is important for both employers and employees. Below are the key regulations governing background checks in this jurisdiction.

Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)

The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) is a federal law that governs how consumer reporting agencies collect and use consumer information. It ensures the accuracy, fairness, and privacy of information in the files of consumer reporting agencies. 

Under FCRA, employers must get written consent before a background check and provide the report if it leads to adverse action. Additionally, employers may need a registration certificate to legally conduct these checks.

District of Columbia Human Rights Act (DCHRA)

The District of Columbia Human Rights Act (DCHRA) prohibits discrimination based on various protected characteristics, including race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity, family responsibilities, disability, matriculation, and political affiliation.

This law applies to employment practices and includes provisions related to background checks, ensuring that these checks are not used in a discriminatory manner, especially for new hires.

District of Columbia Fair Criminal Record Screening Amendment Act (FCRSA)

The District of Columbia Fair Criminal Record Screening Amendment Act (FCRSA) restricts when and how employers can inquire about an applicant’s criminal history. Employers cannot ask about criminal records on job applications and can only inquire after a conditional job offer has been made. This law aims to reduce employment barriers for individuals with criminal records.

District of Columbia Ban the Box Law

Similar to FCRSA, the District of Columbia Ban the Box Law also prevents employers from including questions about criminal history on job applications. This law is part of a broader effort to give individuals with criminal records a fair chance at employment by delaying background checks until later in the hiring process.

District of Columbia Credit Information in Employment Amendment Act

The District of Columbia Credit Information in Employment Amendment Act limits employers’ use of credit information when making employment decisions. This law prohibits employers from asking for or using credit information for hiring, firing, or promotion decisions, with some exceptions for financial institutions and other specific job roles.

District of Columbia Code § 16-801 et seq. (Expungement and Sealing of Records)

Under the District of Columbia Code § 16-801 et seq. (Expungement and Sealing of Records), individuals can petition to have their criminal records sealed or expunged under certain circumstances. This law helps individuals move past their criminal history and reduce barriers to employment and other opportunities.

How Do I Get a State Background Check in the District of Columbia?

Getting a state background check in the District of Columbia is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the Metropolitan Police Department: Head to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) website to access information on obtaining a background check.
2. Complete the Request Form: Fill out the necessary forms available online or at the MPD office.
3. Provide Identification: Submit a valid government-issued ID for verification.
4. Fingerprinting: Depending on the type of check, you may need to undergo electronic fingerprinting at an approved location.
5. Pay the Fee: There is a fee for processing the background check, which varies based on the type of check required.
6. Submit the Request: Submit your completed forms, identification, and payment to the MPD.
7. Wait for Processing: Processing times can vary, but you will typically receive your background check results within a few days to a couple of weeks.

What Shows up on a District of Columbia Background Check?

Drug Testing

Drug testing results can show the presence of illegal substances or the misuse of prescription medications. This is often a requirement for employment, especially in safety-sensitive positions, to ensure there is no illegal use of drugs or medications.

Criminal Background Checks

Criminal background checks will reveal any criminal convictions, arrests, and pending charges. Conducted by the Metropolitan Police Department or a private agency, these checks are crucial for assessing an individual’s criminal history.

Employment Verification

Employment background checks confirm past employment details, including job titles, durations, and reasons for leaving. This helps employers verify a potential employee and their professional experience.

Education Verification

Education verification ensures that the educational qualifications listed by an applicant are accurate. This includes verifying degrees, certificates, and other educational credentials.

Driving Record Checks

Driving record checks provide information on an individual’s driving history, including traffic violations, DUIs, and driver’s license status. These checks are essential for positions that involve driving.

Civil Court Searches

Civil court searches reveal information on civil cases involving the individual, such as lawsuits, restraining orders, and judgments. This helps assess any potential legal issues that may affect employment while ensuring compliance with the Civil Rights Act.

Credit Background Checks

Credit background checks provide an overview of an individual’s financial history, including credit scores, bankruptcies, and outstanding debts. These checks are often used for positions involving financial responsibilities.

How Far Back Does a Background Check Go in the District of Columbia?

In the District of Columbia, background checks typically cover the last seven years of criminal history. However, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) allows employers to check non-conviction information, such as arrests, without a time limit. This means that some aspects of a person’s history could be reviewed for much longer periods.

How Long Does a Background Check Take in the District of Columbia?

The turnaround time to obtain background checks in the District of Columbia is often completed in just a few hours. This quick process is facilitated by electronic fingerprinting, which is securely transmitted for review. However, the specific timeframe can vary depending on the type of check and the applicant’s circumstances.

For example, a standard criminal background check might be completed within hours, but more detailed checks, such as those for security clearances or sensitive positions, could take longer. Employers need to plan accordingly and consider these timelines in their hiring processes.

How Much Does a Background Check in the District of Columbia Cost?

The cost of a background check in the District of Columbia generally ranges from $7.00 to $14.00. The type of check can affect the cost, with criminal history checks being more essential and possibly more expensive for certain applications. Some checks might also require written consent from the individual being screened.

In fields like healthcare or education (e.g., DC Public Schools), background checks may be free. Employers should budget for these costs and understand the requirements for different types of checks to comply with hiring standards effectively.

Where To Get A Background Check In the District of Columbia?

In the District of Columbia, background checks can be obtained through various means depending on the level of detail required. For official and comprehensive checks, visit the Metropolitan Police Department or use their online services. 

Private agencies and online services are also a great source of information, but it is important to make sure they are FCRA compliant. If you just need to find someone or run a background check on yourself, you can use a personal background check service.

Best Background Check Services

For personal and basic searches, these are the best options you can find online:

1. Truthfinder – Best for thorough reports
2. Instant Checkmate – Best for fast searches
3. BeenVerified – Best for user-friendly checks

1

TruthFinder

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Overview:
TruthFinder offers detailed information, including criminal records, employment history, and personal data, making it a reliable choice for thorough personal background checks. Truthfinder ensures accurate and up-to-date information, helping users to search for family members, friends, potential dates and more.

Pros

• Detailed and comprehensive reports
• User-friendly interface
• Access to extensive public records

Cons

• Subscription required for full access
• Occasional delays in report generation
• Non-FCRA compliant

Star Rating

/ 5.0

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2

Instant Checkmate

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Overview:
Instant Checkmate provides instant access to public records, criminal history, and more. It is ideal for those needing immediate information without the hassle of lengthy processes, making it a convenient option for urgent people searches.

Pros

• Fast and efficient searches
• Simple and intuitive interface
• Real-time updates

Cons

• Limited to basic information without subscription
• Some reports may lack depth
• Non-FCRA compliant

Star Rating

/ 5.0

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3

BeenVerified

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Overview:
BeenVerified offers a straightforward and accessible platform for conducting background checks, including criminal records, employment history and contact information. BeenVerified is a great choice for users looking for an easy and reliable way to perform background checks.

Pros

• User-friendly and accessible platform
• Affordable pricing options
• Comprehensive contact information

Cons

• Some data might be outdated
• Limited advanced search features
• Non-FCRA compliant

Star Rating

/ 5.0

Visit

Conclusion on District of Columbia Background Check

Understanding background check laws in the District of Columbia is important for making fair decisions. Using reputable background check services ensures you have access to accurate and comprehensive information, safeguarding your interests and promoting transparency.

Staying informed and using the right tools helps you handle background checks with ease, making sure every decision is responsible and well-informed.

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.