What is an FBI Identity History Summary?
An FBI Identity History Summary (also called a Rap Sheet) is a listing of certain information taken from fingerprint submissions retained by the FBI.
FBI Background Checks & Fingerprinting Options
Learn how to prepare fingerprints for an FBI Identity History Summary request. Confirm the applicable submission route, eligibility, fees, and timing with the FBI or your requesting agency.
Common Questions
How long does an FBI background check take?
For a personal Identity History Summary, the FBI currently lists online requests as within 48 hours after electronic fingerprint capture at a participating U.S. Post Office and mail requests as up to 15 days, plus mail-delivery time. Channeler availability and timing vary. Check the FBI's current guidance; we cannot guarantee a result date: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/identity-history-summary-checks
Who needs an FBI background check?
If an employer, licensing board, government program, or foreign authority requires fingerprints, follow that organization's instructions. A personal FBI Identity History Summary is for reviewing, correcting, or updating your own record and is not for employment or licensing; the FBI directs employment and licensing questions to the appropriate state identification bureau: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/identity-history-summary-checks
What is an FBI channeler?
An FBI-approved channeler is a private company contracted with the FBI to submit eligible personal Identity History Summary requests and relay the electronic result. Approval is specific to the named company; use the FBI's current list rather than assuming a fingerprinting provider is a channeler: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/more-fbi-services-and-information/identity-history-summary-checks/list-of-fbi-approved-channelers-for-departmental-order-submissions
Can I get an Apostille for my FBI background check?
The U.S. Department of State issues an apostille for a federal document intended for a country in the Hague Apostille Convention; it issues an authentication certificate for a country outside the Convention. Confirm what the receiving authority requires before ordering services. Federal Fingerprinting does not issue the certificate or control government processing: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/replace-certify-docs/authenticate-your-document/office-of-authentications.html