When applying for a job or professional license in Ohio, one of the most important steps in the process is completing the right type of background check. But with various options—like BCI, FBI, or a combination of both—it can be confusing to know which one you need.
At FastFingerprints, we make the background check process fast, accurate, and fully compliant with Ohio Revised Code 109.572. This guide will help you understand the different types of Ohio background checks and how to choose the one that fits your licensing or employment needs.
🔍 Understanding Ohio’s Background Check Options
1. BCI Background Check (Ohio Only)
A BCI check, conducted by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI&I), searches criminal history records within the state of Ohio.
✅ Typically required for:
- Ohio teaching licenses
- Childcare and daycare staff
- Real estate professionals
- Healthcare licensing by the Ohio Board of Nursing or Medical Board
- State government jobs
- Security guards
🛑 Important: This check will not include out-of-state or federal offenses.
2. FBI Background Check (National Check)
An FBI check uses your fingerprints to search the national criminal database, which includes records from all 50 states and federal jurisdictions.
✅ Typically required for:
- Adoption and foster care applicants
- Federal employment or military clearance
- Jobs or licenses that require national vetting
- Immigration or visa applications
- Dual BCI/FBI required positions
3. Combined BCI and FBI Background Check
Some roles require both state and national background checks to meet regulatory or agency guidelines.
✅ Common for:
- Public school employees (teachers, bus drivers, staff)
- Healthcare workers in patient care roles
- Nursing home and elder care facility workers
- DOD contractors and child-focused nonprofits
- Ohio Department of Education applications
✅ How to Know Which Background Check You Need
Your employer, licensing board, or requesting agency will tell you:
- Whether you need BCI, FBI, or both
- The ORI number or destination address for results
- If the fingerprinting needs to be completed by a specific deadline
📌 When in doubt, contact your agency before your appointment. Choosing the wrong type of check may delay your application or require reprocessing.
🧾 What to Bring to Your Fingerprinting Appointment
To avoid any hiccups at your appointment:
- Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID
- Have your ORI number or address where the results should be sent
- Confirm the type of check (BCI, FBI, or both)
- Bring payment if not covered by your agency/employer
📍 Why Choose FastFingerprints in Ohio?
- BCI and FBI WebCheck-approved provider
- Live Scan technology for fast, accurate results
- Dozens of convenient Ohio locations
- Same-day and walk-in appointments available
- Mobile services for organizations and groups
- Results in as little as 24–48 hours
Whether you’re applying for a teaching license, working in healthcare, or starting a new career, we’ll help you meet your background check requirements quickly and securely.
📬 Get Fingerprinted the Right Way—Fast
Ready to schedule your appointment?
👉 Book online now
📞 Or call 614.457.8900 for help with your agency’s requirements