If you live or work in Ohio, chances are you—or someone you know—will need a background check at some point. Whether it’s for a job, professional license, or volunteer position, background checks are required by law in many industries across the state.
At FastFingerprints, we specialize in providing fast, secure, and compliant fingerprint-based background checks across Ohio. In this guide, we break down which professionals need a background check in Ohio, why it matters, and how to complete the process quickly and easily.
What Type of Background Check Is Required in Ohio?
In Ohio, most regulated professions require a BCI background check (from the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation), an FBI background check, or both. The type depends on your employer, licensing board, or state law.
We use Live Scan fingerprinting to ensure fast and accurate submission to BCI and FBI databases, eliminating the need for ink cards or mail delays.
Professions That Require a Background Check in Ohio
- Healthcare Workers
- Nurses, STNAs, and medical assistants
- Physicians and physician assistants
- Dentists and dental hygienists
- Home health aides and caregivers
- EMTs and paramedics
Required: BCI + FBI (especially if working with vulnerable populations)
- Teachers and School Employees
- Teachers, aides, and administrators
- Coaches, counselors, and substitutes
- Bus drivers and maintenance staff
Required: BCI + FBI, through the Ohio Department of Education (ODE)
- Childcare and Early Learning Professionals
- Daycare employees and providers
- Preschool teachers
- Babysitters working in licensed centers
Required: BCI + FBI, required by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS)
- Real Estate Professionals
- Real estate agents and brokers
- Appraisers and inspectors
Required: BCI (via the Ohio Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing)
- Security Guards and Private Investigators
- Armed and unarmed security personnel
- Private investigators
Required: BCI + FBI, regulated by the Ohio Department of Public Safety
- Barbers and Cosmetologists
- Hair stylists and nail techs
- Estheticians and barbers
Required: BCI, through the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board
- Social Workers and Counselors
- Licensed social workers
- Marriage and family therapists
- Mental health counselors
Required: BCI + FBI, required by the Counselor, Social Worker & Marriage and Family Therapist Board
- Firefighters and Law Enforcement
- Police officers and sheriff’s deputies
- Firefighters and EMTs
- Correctional officers
Required: BCI + FBI, often pre-screened through academy or hiring process
- Volunteers Working with Children or Seniors
- Church and youth group leaders
- Mentors, tutors, and sports coaches
- Nursing home and hospice volunteers
Often required: BCI or BCI + FBI, depending on the organization’s policies
- Adoption and Foster Care Applicants
- Prospective foster parents
- Adoptive parents and guardians
Required: BCI + FBI, through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services
How to Get a Background Check in Ohio
At FastFingerprints, we make it easy with:
- Online appointment scheduling
- Live Scan technology (no messy ink)
- Dozens of locations across Ohio
- Mobile fingerprinting services for groups or employers
- Direct submission to BCI and FBI
We’re an approved vendor for the State of Ohio, and we support all major licensing boards and background check requirements.
Why Choose FastFingerprints?
- Approved by BCI and FBI
- Fast turnaround times (most results in 1–5 business days)
- Secure, accurate Live Scan fingerprinting
- Experienced team with deep knowledge of Ohio’s licensing rules
Ready to Schedule Your Ohio Background Check?
Whether you’re an individual or coordinating checks for your team, FastFingerprints is here to help.
Book your appointment now
Or call 614.457.8900 to speak with our Ohio support team.