When applying for a job, professional license, visa, or adoption, you may be asked to undergo a background check—but not all background checks are the same. The two most common types are state and federal (FBI) background checks.
Understanding the difference between state and federal background checks is essential to ensure you meet the exact requirements of your employer, licensing board, or government agency. At National Background Check, Inc. (NBCI), we offer both types and help individuals and organizations navigate the process quickly and accurately.
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between state and federal background checks—so you can choose the right one.
What Is a State Background Check?
A state background check searches an individual’s criminal history within a specific U.S. state. In Ohio, for example, this type of check is processed by the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and includes:
- Arrests within the state
- Convictions in state courts
- Local warrants or charges
- State-specific offender registries
Who typically needs a state background check?
- Teachers, nurses, and healthcare workers applying for state licensure
- Real estate agents, childcare workers, and security professionals
- State government or agency employees
- Volunteers working with vulnerable populations (in schools, nursing homes, etc.)
What Is a Federal Background Check?
A federal background check, often referred to as an FBI Identity History Summary, is a nationwide criminal history report generated using fingerprints. It searches the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) database and includes:
- Arrest records submitted by all U.S. states and federal agencies
- Federal convictions and charges
- Military criminal records (if applicable)
- Information from participating law enforcement agencies across the country
Who typically needs a federal (FBI) background check?
- U.S. visa, green card, or citizenship applicants
- International adoption applicants
- People seeking employment abroad
- Federal contractors or employees
- Individuals needing apostilles for foreign document use
Key Differences Between State and Federal Background Checks
| Feature | State Check | Federal (FBI) Check |
| Scope | One state’s records | Nationwide records |
| Managed By | State agencies (e.g., BCI) | FBI (CJIS Division) |
| Uses Fingerprints? | Yes (usually) | Yes (required) |
| Used For | State jobs, licenses | Federal clearance, visas, adoption |
| Processing Time | 7–10 business days | 24–72 hours with NBCI expedited |
| Format | Digital or mailed | Digital or mailed PDF/report |
Why Choose NBCI for Background Checks?
- FBI-Approved Channeler – Fast, secure federal background checks
- Authorized BCI Provider in Ohio – Compliant state checks
- LiveScan and FD-258 fingerprinting options
- Mail-in or in-person service available nationwide
Whether you need a state or federal background check—or both—we’ll help you understand what’s required and get it done right.
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Still unsure which background check you need?
Contact National Background Check, Inc., and our team will help guide you through the fingerprinting process and deliver fast, compliant results for your next step.
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