background check florida: practical guide and FAQs

What is covered

A Florida background check often includes an FDLE criminal history search, county court records, and, for licensed or sensitive roles, a Level 2 fingerprint screening. Employers and landlords must obtain written consent and follow the FCRA, including disclosure and adverse action steps.

How to get started

Define your purpose, gather full legal name and identifiers, secure authorization, then choose an FDLE portal or a compliant consumer reporting agency. Most name-based results return in one to three business days; fingerprint-based checks can take longer if manual reviews are needed.

• Level 1 vs Level 2: Level 1 is name-based; Level 2 uses fingerprints and national databases.
• Adverse action: Provide a pre-adverse notice, report copy, and time to dispute.
• Sealed/expunged: Generally excluded from employment reports.
• Costs: Expect state fees plus vendor charges.
• Accuracy: Verify identifiers; dispute errors promptly.

Common questions

How far back do checks go? Many employers review seven years, though regulated roles may look further. What shows up? Typically convictions, dispositions, and pending cases; traffic infractions rarely appear. This is general information, not legal advice.