Fingerprinting is an essential component of background checks conducted by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). These checks are required for employment, professional licensure, volunteer work, and compliance with state and federal regulations. Submitting accurate fingerprints with the correct Ohio Revised Code (ORC) reason codes ensures that results are processed promptly and sent to the appropriate agency.
Why Fingerprinting Is Important
Fingerprints are unique identifiers that provide a reliable method of confirming identity. Unlike names or Social Security numbers, fingerprints cannot be easily altered or forged. When submitted to BCI and FBI databases, they allow agencies to verify criminal history at both state and national levels, supporting public safety and regulatory compliance.
The Role of BCI and FBI Checks
BCI checks search Ohio’s criminal history database and are required for many in-state positions and licenses. FBI checks search nationwide criminal history records and are often required for roles involving vulnerable populations or for licenses that need portability across states.
Be Prepared for Your Appointment
Proper preparation prevents delays and resubmissions. Follow these steps:
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Confirm whether you need a BCI check, an FBI check, or both.
- Obtain the correct ORC reason code from your employer, school, or licensing board. This code specifies the legal basis for the background check and determines where results are sent. Webcheck providers cannot supply this code; it must be provided by the requesting agency.
- Ensure your hands are clean and free of cuts or heavy lotions. If your hands are dry, apply Corn Huskers Lotion for several days before your appointment. Ask your provider if they have Ridge Builder by Evident, which temporarily raises ridge detail for better fingerprint capture.
- Arrive early and confirm accepted payment methods and appointment requirements.
Common Ohio Jobs That Require Live Scan Fingerprinting and Typical Reason Codes
Many professions in Ohio require Live Scan fingerprinting for BCI and FBI background checks. Below are examples of job categories and their associated ORC reason codes. Always verify the exact code with your employer or licensing board.
Healthcare and Medical
- Nurses (RN, LPN, students, dialysis technicians): ORC 4723.09
- Home health agencies serving children or adults: ORC 3701.881
- Hospice care programs: ORC 3712.09
- Nursing homes and adult day services: ORC 3721.121
Education and Childcare
- Teacher licensure: ORC 3319.291
- Public school employees and bus drivers: ORC 3319.39 and ORC 3327.10
- Head Start programs: ORC 3301.32
- Preschool programs: ORC 3301.541
- Foster and adoptive parents and household adults: ORC 2151.86
Security, Law Enforcement, and Public Safety
- Firefighter and EMT applicants: ORC 109.578
- Concealed carry permits: ORC 311.41 and related variants
Professional Licensure
- Accountancy Board: ORC 4701.08
- Dental Board: ORC 4715.101
- Embalmers and funeral directors: ORC 4717.061
- Optometrists: ORC 4725.121
- Optical dispensers: ORC 4725.501
- Pharmacy Board applicants: ORC 4729.071
- Insurance license applicants: ORC 3905.051
Financial and Regulated Industries
- Banking and financial institutions: ORC 1121.23, 1315.141, 1321.37, 1321.53, 1322.03, 1322.031
- Hazardous waste investigations: ORC 3734.42
- Lottery, casino, and racing commissions: ORC 3770.02, 3772.07, 3769.03
- Medical marijuana industry: ORC 3796.12, 3796.13
Consequences of Poor Preparation
Failure to bring the correct ORC codes, valid identification, or readable fingerprints can result in:
- Rejection or resubmission of fingerprints
- Processing delays that affect employment or licensing timelines
- Additional fees for reprinting
Final Checklist
Before your appointment:
- Confirm whether you need BCI, FBI, or both checks
- Obtain the exact ORC reason code from your employer or licensing board
- Bring valid government-issued identification
- Prepare your hands to ensure clear prints
- Verify payment methods and appointment details
Ohio Security & Investigations LLC
7087 West Blvd #8, Youngstown, Ohio 44512
Phone: (888) 341-6960
Email: info@ohioinvestigators.com
Website: https://ohioinvestigators.com/fingerprinting-youngstown-ohio/