Illinois Background Check Information
Learn about the Background Check Process in the state of Illinois.
PrintScan Illinois Background Check Guide
The fingerprinting and background check process can be complicated. We decided to put together this guide as a quick reference to make your Illinois fingerprinting experience easier.
PrintScan offers fingerprinting and background checks for FINRA and the FDLE in Illinois.
Illinois Fingerprinting and Background Check Frequently Asked Questions
Can I obtain an FBI criminal history response for myself even if I am not being hired or licensed by a gonvernmental agency?
Yes. Federal Departmental Order DO 556-73 allows that any individual may request a Copy of a Record (or proof that a record does not exist). Only you can request a copy of your own Identification Record. Accurate Biometrics was the first channeling agency in the country to be approved for this service on July 21, 2011.
Individuals typically make this request for personal review, to challenge the information on record, to satisfy a requirement for adopting a child in the U.S. or internationally, or to satisfy a requirement to live, work or travel in a foreign country (i.e., police certificate, letter of good conduct, criminal history background, etc.).
To obtain your individual FBI response, you can visit any one of our fingerprint locations in Illinois or mail a completed FBI form 258 fingerprint card along with a completed fingerprint authorization form. Click the following link for instructions on how to obtain your FBI criminal history response
What if my criminal background on file with Illinois state police is not correct?
You should contact the Illinois State Police Customer Service department at 815-740-5160. They will inform you of the “Access and Review Record” procedure that outlines the steps you will need to follow to challenge your criminal record.
How do I find out if the Illinois agency that requested my fingerprints actually received them?
For all Illinois Fee App and UCIA submissions, Accurate Biometrics does not receive the ISP/FBI response. You must contact your agency or employer directly. Some helpful contact numbers are:
- Department of Professional Regulations- 217-782-8556 (Loan originators, Nurses, Massage Therapists, Security Guards, etc.)
- Department of Consumer Services- 217-746-4444 (Chicago Cab drivers, Limousine Drivers, Chauffeurs License)
- Department of Children and Family Services- 312-808-5000 (Adoption, Foster Care, Day Care Licenses)
- Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH): 217-785-5133
- For Departmental Order 556-73 (Individual FBI response): Contact Accurate Biometrics 866-361-9944
Required documents to initiate a background check:
Primary Accepted Forms of Photo Identification:
- State-issued driver’s license*
- U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card
- Federal Government Personal Identity Verification Card (PIV)
Frequently Asked Questions
We know you have questions, we can answer them!
Q. Does the FBI have my fingerprints?
If you have ever been fingerprinted to get a license or a background check then the FBI does keep a record of your fingerprints in their criminal database.
Q. How long does an FBI fingerprinting session take?
Printscan's fingerprinting sessions for FBI background checks average at 20 minutes.
Q. How far back does an FBI background check go?
An FBI background check goes back for the entire applicants lifetime.
Q. How do I know if I need my FBI background check apostilled?
If the country you wish to visit is part of the Hauge convention then you will need to apostille your FBI background check.
Q. What payment do you accept?
We accept cash, or any major credit card. (Visa/Mastercard/Discovery/American Express)
