criminal background check california: what to know before you request one

Why people use it

In California, a criminal background check helps employers, landlords, and licensing boards make informed, fair decisions while protecting clients and property.

Individuals also order their own reports to spot errors, confirm expungements, or prepare for job applications.

What a check can include

Depending on the purpose, results may show state Department of Justice records, county court cases, and federal filings. Convictions are the focus; mere arrests are limited by law.

• Live Scan fingerprints for licensed roles
• County searches for the most current case status
• Identity verification and alias checks
• Sex offender registry review
• Compliance screening under the FCRA

Best practices

Always get written consent, evaluate only job-relevant history, and follow adverse action steps if denying an applicant. Use consistent criteria to reduce bias and document your decisions.

Turnaround can range from minutes for database queries to several days for courthouse pulls. To improve accuracy, provide full legal names, prior addresses, and any known case numbers. If you find inaccuracies, you can dispute them or request a personal DOJ record review to correct it.