A Level 2 background check is a comprehensive screening process that delves into an individual's history to uncover potential risks or concerns. This type of check is typically required for positions that involve working with vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, or individuals with disabilities. It is also commonly used for roles that require a high level of trust, such as in the financial or healthcare industries. The primary goal of a Level 2 background check is to provide employers with a thorough understanding of a candidate's background, enabling them to make informed hiring decisions.
What is Included in a Level 2 Background Check?
A Level 2 background check involves a thorough examination of an individual’s history, including their criminal record, employment history, and personal references. The specific components of a Level 2 background check may vary depending on the employer or industry, but typically include:
- Fingerprinting: This involves taking an individual's fingerprints and comparing them to those on file with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and other law enforcement agencies.
- Criminal history search: This search involves reviewing an individual's criminal record, including any arrests, convictions, or pending charges.
- Employment verification: This involves confirming an individual's previous work experience and checking for any gaps in employment.
- Personal reference checks: This involves contacting an individual's personal references to verify their character and work ethic.
- Driver's license verification: This involves checking an individual's driver's license to ensure it is valid and has not been suspended or revoked.
The Process of Conducting a Level 2 Background Check
Conducting a Level 2 background check typically involves the following steps:
- The employer or hiring manager requests a background check on the candidate.
- The candidate provides their consent for the background check, which typically involves signing a release form.
- The background check company or agency collects the necessary information, including the candidate's fingerprints, personal references, and employment history.
- The background check company or agency conducts the search, which may involve reviewing public records, contacting personal references, and verifying employment history.
- The results of the background check are provided to the employer or hiring manager, who uses the information to make an informed hiring decision.
The process of conducting a Level 2 background check can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, which is why many employers rely on background check companies or agencies to handle the process. These companies have the expertise and resources to quickly and accurately conduct background checks, providing employers with the information they need to make informed hiring decisions.
| Type of Search | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal history search | A search of an individual's criminal record, including any arrests, convictions, or pending charges. | $20-$50 |
| Employment verification | A verification of an individual's previous work experience, including job title, dates of employment, and reason for leaving. | $10-$30 |
| Personal reference checks | A check of an individual's personal references to verify their character and work ethic. | $20-$50 |
Benefits of a Level 2 Background Check
There are several benefits to conducting a Level 2 background check, including:
- Improved safety and security: By identifying potential risks or concerns, employers can take steps to protect their employees, customers, and assets.
- Reduced liability: Conducting a thorough background check can help employers reduce their liability in the event of a lawsuit or other claim.
- Enhanced due diligence: A Level 2 background check demonstrates an employer's commitment to due diligence and their desire to make informed hiring decisions.
- Compliance with regulations: In some industries, such as healthcare or finance, conducting a Level 2 background check is required by law or regulation.
Overall, a Level 2 background check is an essential tool for employers who want to ensure they are hiring qualified and trustworthy candidates. By providing fast and accurate results, background check companies or agencies can help employers quickly fill open positions while also reducing their risk and liability.
What is the difference between a Level 1 and Level 2 background check?
+A Level 1 background check is a basic search that typically includes a review of an individual’s criminal record and employment history. A Level 2 background check, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive search that includes a fingerprinting, a review of an individual’s criminal record, employment verification, personal reference checks, and driver’s license verification.
How long does a Level 2 background check take?
+The length of time it takes to complete a Level 2 background check can vary depending on the background check company or agency and the specific components of the search. On average, a Level 2 background check can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to complete.
What is the cost of a Level 2 background check?
+The cost of a Level 2 background check can vary depending on the background check company or agency and the specific components of the search. On average, the cost of a Level 2 background check can range from 50 to 200 or more.
