The hiring process often includes a background check to verify a candidate’s credentials and suitability for a position. Understanding how long background checks take is crucial for both employers aiming to fill roles quickly and candidates eager to start their new jobs. The duration can vary widely based on several factors, including the type of check, the scope of the search, location, record availability, and whether you are conducting the check yourself or using a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA).
Average Background Check Turnaround Time
Generally, when partnering with a CRA like Checkr, the industry standard turnaround time for background screenings is approximately 3 to 5 business days. However, certain database screenings, such as National Criminal Records Checks and Sex Offender Registry Checks, can deliver results in mere minutes. It’s important to note that the overall timeframe can be influenced by the number of screenings required, the geographical locations of both the employer and candidate, and any specific searches like fingerprint checks.
For a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of typical timelines for common types of background checks:
| Type of Screening | Average Turnaround Time |
|---|---|
| Employment Background Check (Comprehensive, including multiple screenings) | >1 hour to 1-5 business days |
| Criminal Background Check | 1-3 business days |
| Employment Verification | 1-3 minutes (instant verification) to 2-7 business days (manual verification) |
| Reference Checks | 2-5 business days |
| Driving Record (MVR) Check | >1 hour to 1-3 business days |
| Drug Testing | 10 minutes (on-site) to 3-10 business days (lab-based) |
Checkr distinguishes itself in the background check industry by offering some of the fastest turnaround times. This efficiency is attributed to our real-time, proprietary data network and strong relationships with court record retrievers. Furthermore, Checkr’s ETA tool provides estimated turnaround times for each background check report at the county level, enhancing transparency for both employers and candidates regarding how long a background check will take.
Factors Influencing Employment Background Check Duration
The time it takes to complete an employment background check can range from minutes to several business days, largely depending on the depth of the search. An employment background check can encompass various screenings, including criminal record searches, verification of employment and educational history, driving record checks, and drug testing. The more thorough the background check, the longer it may take to compile the complete report. International background checks, due to their complexity, can extend the process to 2-3 weeks.
Several elements can further affect the timeline. Inaccurate or incomplete information provided by the candidate can cause delays. Operational factors at county courthouses, particularly those relying on non-digitized records requiring manual review by court runners, can also increase turnaround times.
Moreover, companies choosing to conduct employment background checks in-house often find it a significantly time-consuming undertaking for their HR departments. Requesting and reviewing public records, contacting previous employers, and coordinating drug tests can collectively take weeks.
Criminal Background Check Timeframe
Typically, a criminal background check takes between 1 to 3 business days to complete. However, in many cases, results can be expedited depending on the specific type of check and the provider used. For instance, at Checkr, a significant majority of criminal checks are completed within just one hour.
Criminal background checks may include a combination of the following searches:
- Federal criminal records check
- National criminal records check
- State criminal records check
- County criminal records check
- Sex offender registry search
- Global and domestic watchlist searches
- International criminal record searches
The specific type of criminal background check and geographical location are key determinants in how long a criminal background check takes. For example, if a national background check indicates a potential criminal record, county records are often subsequently examined for verification. This additional step can extend the overall completion time by a few days to several weeks.
Criminal record checks are essential for employers to confirm a candidate’s eligibility and suitability for a role, mitigate workplace risks, and prioritize safety. These screenings generally involve searching court records to identify a candidate’s criminal history, potentially including felony and misdemeanor convictions.
Employment Verification Processing Time
The duration of employment verification is contingent on whether employers handle verifications directly or utilize a background check provider like Checkr. Direct employer outreach can lead to extended wait times, potentially spanning days or even weeks, for responses. The number of previous employers to be contacted also affects the overall time.
Opting for a professional background check provider can significantly streamline this process. Standard reports are typically delivered within 2-5 business days. Checkr provides a quick verification option allowing candidates to directly log into their payroll provider, often resulting in reports completed in just 1-3 minutes. In situations where candidates prefer their current employer not be contacted, they may need to provide supporting documentation like W-2s, 1099s, or pay stubs, which could add up to a week to the turnaround time.
Employment verification screenings serve to confirm a candidate’s past work experience, ensuring they possess the necessary skills and experience for the role and validating the accuracy of their resume information. This typically involves database searches, verification of employment documents, or direct contact with previous employers to confirm employment dates and job titles. Where legally permissible, salary history may also be verified.
Reference Check Completion Time
If a background check provider is used, reference checks can generally be completed within 2-5 business days. However, conducting reference checks independently can extend the process to a few weeks.
The time required for reference checks depends on the availability of the references and the method of contact. Phone reference checks can take around 30 minutes per call, while email-based checks might require several days for responses.
Reference checks provide deeper insights into a candidate’s job performance, skills, and character. The process usually involves obtaining a reference list from the candidate, securing their permission to contact these references, and then scheduling discussions using a set of predetermined questions.
Streamlining Background Checks with Checkr
Background checks are a vital component of informed hiring decisions. However, lengthy turnaround times can impede the hiring process and delay filling crucial roles. Checkr’s advanced background check platform and real-time data network enhance both speed and accuracy, enabling employers to hire more efficiently and equitably. While the exact turnaround time varies based on the screening type, a significant 89% of criminal checks are completed within an hour. Our diverse range of screening options and customizable packages are designed to support businesses of all sizes in scaling their hiring processes with comprehensive and efficient background checks.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and not legal advice. Consult legal counsel for questions related to your specific practices and legal compliance.
