What is a Level 2 Background Check?
A Level 2 background check is a more detailed and comprehensive screening process that goes beyond the basics of a Level 1 background check. Level 2 checks are typically required for individuals applying for positions where they will have direct and unsupervised access to vulnerable populations, such as children, elderly individuals, or persons with disabilities. Unlike Level 1 checks, which mainly focus on criminal records within a local jurisdiction, Level 2 background checks involve a national criminal history check, fingerprinting, and a thorough investigation into other aspects of an individual’s past, such as child abuse records, financial history, and other sensitive information.
The main difference between Level 1 and Level 2 background checks is the depth of the investigation. Level 1 checks are usually less invasive, focusing mainly on criminal history and basic background information within the local area, while Level 2 checks expand to cover a wider scope, including national databases and fingerprint analysis.
Why are Level 2 Background Checks Important?
Level 2 background checks are critical in sectors where individuals are entrusted with sensitive roles, such as in healthcare, education, government, and childcare. These checks are designed to protect both the public and organizations by ensuring that individuals in sensitive positions do not have a history that would pose a risk to vulnerable populations. Level 2 background checks are important for:
- Employment: Employers in specific sectors may be required to perform Level 2 background checks before hiring candidates, especially when the position involves working with children, the elderly, or other vulnerable individuals.
- Licensing: Certain professions, such as those in law enforcement, healthcare, and finance, may require a Level 2 background check for individuals to obtain or renew a professional license.
- Government & Security: Government agencies, especially those that handle security clearance or sensitive information, often require Level 2 checks as part of the hiring process.
Level 2 background checks help ensure that only individuals who meet the highest ethical standards are placed in positions where they have significant responsibility for others’ safety and well-being.
Disqualifications in a Level 2 Background Check
In the context of a Level 2 background check, certain disqualifying factors can prevent an individual from passing the screening. These disqualifications are typically based on the type and severity of criminal history or other factors that may raise concerns about an individual’s reliability, trustworthiness, and ability to perform their duties without risk.
Disqualifications can vary depending on the specific industry or role, as well as the legal and regulatory requirements of the jurisdiction. However, common disqualifying factors include serious criminal offenses, child abuse history, drug-related offenses, and financial misconduct. In the next section, we will dive deeper into these factors and explain how they affect an individual’s eligibility during the Level 2 background check process.
List of Disqualifying Factors for a Level 2 Background Check
Several factors can lead to disqualification during a Level 2 background check. These include:
- Felony Convictions
Felony convictions, especially those related to violent crimes, such as murder, assault, or battery, are serious disqualifiers in a Level 2 background check. These offenses often indicate an individual poses a potential threat to others and is unlikely to be suitable for roles involving responsibility for vulnerable populations. - Child Abuse or Neglect Records
Individuals with a history of child abuse or neglect are generally disqualified from roles that involve working with children. Child protective services records are often checked as part of a Level 2 background check to ensure the individual has not been involved in harmful activities toward minors. - Sex Offender Status
Any individual listed on a national sex offender registry is automatically disqualified from passing a Level 2 background check. Individuals convicted of sex crimes, especially those involving minors, pose significant risks in environments where children or vulnerable populations are present. - Drug-Related Offenses
Convictions related to drug offenses, especially drug trafficking, manufacturing, or possession of controlled substances, can disqualify an individual, particularly if they indicate substance abuse problems that could affect job performance or the safety of others. - Fraud or Financial Misconduct
Individuals with a history of fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, or other financial crimes may be disqualified during a Level 2 background check, especially for positions in finance or jobs involving access to sensitive financial information. - Violent Crimes
Convictions for violent crimes such as domestic violence, robbery, assault, or other similar offenses can result in disqualification, as these crimes often demonstrate a lack of self-control and potential risk to others. - Fraudulent Information or Falsification of Records
Providing false information on applications, including falsifying qualifications or criminal history, can lead to automatic disqualification. Integrity and honesty are key values in many positions, particularly those requiring Level 2 checks. - History of Unresolved Legal Issues
Outstanding or unresolved warrants, charges, or lawsuits may also be a red flag and could result in disqualification, particularly if the issues suggest ongoing legal or ethical concerns.
How a Level 2 Background Check Process Works
The process of conducting a Level 2 background check is typically more thorough than a Level 1 check and involves the following steps:
- Collection of Personal Information
The process starts with the collection of personal information from the individual undergoing the check. This typically includes their name, address history, Social Security number, and employment history. - Fingerprinting
One of the key components of a Level 2 background check is fingerprinting. The fingerprints are sent to both state and federal law enforcement agencies to check for any criminal records that may be associated with the individual. - Criminal History Search
The background check will search both state and national databases to identify any past convictions or arrests. This search includes checking databases for violent crimes, sex offenses, drug-related crimes, and financial misconduct. - Child Abuse and Neglect Registry
A thorough background check will often include a search of child abuse and neglect registries. This ensures that those who work with children are not listed in state or national databases for child-related offenses. - Sex Offender Registry
A search of the sex offender registry is mandatory in Level 2 checks, especially for roles involving minors or vulnerable populations. This check ensures that individuals with past sexual offenses are disqualified from roles where they may have unsupervised access to children. - Verification of Employment and Education
The check may also verify the individual’s employment history, educational background, and any professional certifications to confirm their qualifications for the role. - Reference and Credential Checks
Employers may conduct reference checks to confirm that the individual has a history of responsible behavior in previous roles. - Timeframe
The length of time it takes to complete a Level 2 background check can vary, but it typically takes 3 to 10 business days to process the information, depending on the complexity of the check and the databases being searched.
Exact Background Checks & Its Services
For employers, licensing agencies, and organizations needing reliable Level 2 background checks, services like Exact Background Checks can provide fast and accurate results. Exact Background Checks specialize in a range of employment and licensing background screenings, including Level 2 checks, offering customized solutions to meet the specific needs of each industry.
Legal Aspects of Level 2 Background Checks
Level 2 background checks are governed by several key legal aspects to ensure fairness and compliance:
- FCRA Compliance
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) ensures that individuals are informed and give consent before their background is checked. The FCRA also requires employers to provide individuals with a copy of their background check results if the information is used to make an adverse employment decision. - State-Specific Regulations
State laws govern the scope and depth of Level 2 background checks. These laws vary, but most require checks for criminal history, child abuse, and sex offender status. Employers must comply with these state-specific regulations to ensure they are hiring qualified candidates. - Employer Responsibilities
Employers are responsible for using background check information fairly and ensuring that it is used for legitimate hiring purposes. This means avoiding discrimination based on a past criminal record, except when the offense is directly relevant to the job position. - Equal Employment Opportunity Laws
Employers must comply with EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) guidelines, which require them to ensure that background check decisions do not disproportionately affect applicants based on race, ethnicity, or other protected classes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does a Level 2 background check include?
A Level 2 background check typically includes criminal history checks, fingerprinting, child abuse and neglect registry searches, sex offender checks, and sometimes employment or education verification.
How long does it take to complete a Level 2 background check?
It usually takes between 3 to 10 business days to complete a Level 2 background check, depending on the scope and complexity of the information being reviewed.
Can you pass a Level 2 background check with a felony?
It depends on the nature of the felony. Serious offenses such as violent crimes or sexual offenses may disqualify an individual from passing a Level 2 background check, especially for jobs involving children or vulnerable populations.
Who requires a Level 2 background check?
Level 2 background checks are commonly required by employers in fields like education, healthcare, childcare, government, and positions involving security clearance or working with vulnerable groups.
Can I challenge the results of a Level 2 background check?
Yes, you can challenge incorrect or outdated information on your background check. It’s important to review your report and dispute any errors directly with the reporting agency.
Conclusion
Understanding the disqualifying factors of a Level 2 background check is essential for anyone applying for positions that require thorough background screening. By knowing what offenses and behaviors may disqualify you, you can be better prepared for the hiring or licensing process. A Level 2 check plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and integrity of industries that serve vulnerable populations, from childcare to healthcare and beyond.
