Deadline Reminder for FBI Background Checks

People needing Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) criminal history background checks as a condition of employment must obtain them by December 31, 2020.

Learn More

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Gov. Tom Wolf signed Act 18 of 2020 earlier this year, extending the time period for certain professions required by the Child Protective Services Law (CPSL) to obtain an FBI background check upon hiring.

With the deadline approaching, professionals who need a new clearance or to renew an existing clearance are encouraged to start the process as soon as possible.

In order to receive an FBI background check, fingerprints must be submitted as part of the criminal history check. Fingerprint scans can be taken at an IdentoGO location in the commonwealth. Required clearances must be obtained by December 31, 2020 for workers to remain in compliance.

A map of all open IdentoGO locations is available on the DHS website, and this map is updated as new offices begin to reopen. Anyone seeking fingerprinting services should call IDEMIA’s customer service at 844-321-2101 to ensure the location is still operating, schedule an appointment, and discuss necessary COVID-19 safety precautions.

If employers have a large number of employees needing new or renewed clearances, arrangements can be made to have fingerprinting occur at the workplace. Mobile fingerprinting services are available for an additional fee through IDEMIA for groups of 20 or more needing clearances. Agencies with this need should contact IDEMIA to schedule.

For more information on clearances necessary to work with children, visit www.keepkidssafe.pa.gov.