Can Background Checks See Warrants?

Can Background Checks See Warrants?

Understanding the Scope of Background Checks

When considering partnering with a new background screening provider, it’s crucial to select a company that not only offers comprehensive services but also ensures speed, affordability, and, most importantly, compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and both local and state laws. A common question posed by prospective clients is: Can background checks see warrants?

Arrests, Warrants, and Jurisdictional Variability

Background checks can indeed reveal warrants; however, the visibility of these warrants can vary significantly across different jurisdictions. This variability is due to the disparate ways in which state and local laws govern the reporting and accessibility of arrest and warrant information. While some jurisdictions may readily include active warrants in their public records, others might restrict access to such information. Therefore, the inclusion of warrants in a background check report can depend heavily on the specific legal frameworks and reporting practices of the jurisdiction in question.

Components of a Comprehensive Background Check

A thorough background check goes beyond merely searching for warrants and includes multiple components to provide a holistic view of an individual’s background. These components typically encompass:

  • Social Security Trace: Verifies the applicant’s social security number, often uncovering any aliases or history of address changes.
  • Sex Offender Search: Checks national sex offender registries to identify any matches.
  • Security Watch Lists Search: Screens against various domestic and international watch lists to ensure compliance and security.
  • Criminal History: Searches state, national, and, if applicable, international criminal records for any convictions or pending cases.
  • Driving Records: Provides insights into an individual’s driving history, including any violations or suspensions.
  • Education Verification: Confirms the authenticity of an applicant’s educational claims.
  • Employment History: Verifies previous employment claims, including positions held and durations of employment.
  • Additional Checks: Depending on the role and industry, checks might also include credit history, professional license verification, and drug testing.

Timing and Performance of Background Checks

Typically, background checks are conducted after a conditional offer of employment has been made but before the candidate officially starts their role. This timing ensures that the employer makes informed hiring decisions while remaining compliant with regulatory guidelines and respecting the candidate’s privacy.

The Background Check Process

The process of conducting a background check involves several steps, beginning with obtaining the candidate’s consent and ending with the analysis and reporting of findings. Here’s a brief overview:

  1. Consent and Information Collection: The candidate provides written consent for the background check, along with personal information necessary for conducting the search.
  2. Search Execution: Using both public and private records, the background screening provider conducts a comprehensive search based on the components outlined by the employer.
  3. Analysis and Reporting: The findings are analyzed, compiled, and reported back to the employer, highlighting any areas of concern or notable findings.

Public records, such as court records, driving history, and sex offender registries, are typically accessible. However, private records, which might include certain databases and employment history, require consent and, sometimes, specific requests to access.

Choosing the Right Background Screening Provider

For businesses seeking a reliable and comprehensive background screening provider, it’s essential to choose a partner like EDIFY Background Screening. With our experience, technology, and commitment to compliance, we ensure that your background investigations are conducted efficiently, affordably, and in alignment with all relevant legal requirements.

We understand the nuances of accessing and interpreting arrest and warrant information across various jurisdictions. Our team is equipped to navigate these complexities, providing you with thorough and actionable insights to make informed hiring decisions.

For more information on how EDIFY Background Screening can support your background check needs, ensuring compliance and peace of mind, please contact us at 336-283-0237 or info@edifyscreening.com. Visit our website at www.edifyscreening.com to discover how we can tailor our services to meet your unique requirements.


At EDIFY Background Screening, we’re dedicated to helping you make informed and compliant hiring decisions. Let us be your partner in navigating the complexities of background checks, ensuring a safer and more secure future for your organization.

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