BCI and FBI Fingerprinting for Background Checks: Why Proper Preparation and Correct Reason Codes Are Critical
Why Fingerprinting Is Absolutely Essential
Fingerprinting is a mandatory legal requirement for thousands of regulated positions across Ohio. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) rely on fingerprints to conduct thorough background checks that protect employers, clients, and the public. These checks are required for employment, professional licensure, volunteer roles, and compliance with state and federal law. Failure to comply can result in denied applications, delayed start dates, and even permanent disqualification from certain professions.
Fingerprints are the most reliable form of identification. Unlike names or Social Security numbers, they cannot be forged or altered. When submitted to BCI and FBI databases, fingerprints confirm identity and reveal criminal history at both state and national levels, ensuring compliance with Ohio law and federal standards. This process is critical for safeguarding vulnerable populations, maintaining trust in regulated industries, and upholding public safety.
The Role of BCI and FBI Checks
BCI checks search Ohio’s criminal history database and are required for most state regulated positions and licenses including education, healthcare, and financial services.
FBI checks search nationwide criminal history records and are essential for roles involving vulnerable populations, interstate licensing, and federal compliance.
Why Preparation Is Critical
Improper preparation can lead to rejected fingerprints, costly resubmissions, and significant delays. Follow these steps to ensure success:
- Bring a valid government issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Know which check you need: BCI, FBI, or both.
- Obtain the correct ORC reason code from your employer, school, or licensing board. This code determines where your results are sent. Webcheck providers cannot supply this code; it must come from the requesting agency.
- Prepare your hands: Clean and dry them. If your skin is dry, apply Corn Huskers Lotion for several days before your appointment. Ask your provider about Ridge Builder by Evident, which temporarily enhances ridge detail for better scans.
- Arrive early and confirm payment methods to avoid rescheduling.
Jobs That Require BCI and FBI Fingerprinting and Their ORC Reason Codes
Ohio law mandates fingerprinting for a wide range of professions. Below are examples of positions and their associated ORC codes. Always confirm the exact code with your employer or licensing board.
Healthcare and Medical
Nurses (RN, LPN, students, dialysis technicians): ORC 4723.09
Home health agencies: ORC 3701.881
Hospice care programs: ORC 3712.09
Nursing homes and adult day services: ORC 3721.121
Physical therapists and occupational therapists: ORC 4755.06
Speech language pathologists and audiologists: ORC 4753.06
Radiology and imaging professionals: ORC 4773.02
Medical marijuana caregivers and dispensary staff: ORC 3796.12, ORC 3796.13
Education and Childcare
Teacher licensure: ORC 3319.291
Public school employees and bus drivers: ORC 3319.39, ORC 3327.10
Head Start programs: ORC 3301.32
Preschool programs: ORC 3301.541
Foster and adoptive parents and household adults: ORC 2151.86
Childcare center employees: ORC 5104.013
Private school staff and tutors: ORC 3319.39
Security, Law Enforcement, and Public Safety
Firefighter and EMT applicants: ORC 109.578
Law enforcement officers: ORC 109.572
Private security guards: ORC 4749.03
Bail bondsmen: ORC 3905.051
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
Real estate brokers and salespersons: ORC 4735.09
Cosmetologists and barbers: ORC 4709.07, ORC 4713.06
Auctioneers: ORC 4707.07
Financial and Regulated Industries
Banking and financial institutions: ORC 1121.23, ORC 1315.141, ORC 1321.37, ORC 1321.53, ORC 1322.03, ORC 1322.031
Hazardous waste investigations: ORC 3734.42
Lottery, casino, and racing commissions: ORC 3770.02, ORC 3772.07, ORC 3769.03
Mortgage brokers and lenders: ORC 1322.03
Areas We Serve in Mahoning County
Ohio Security & Investigations proudly serves all cities, villages, and communities in Mahoning County, including:
Alliance – 44601
Austintown – 44515
Beloit – 44609
Berlin Center – 44401
Boardman – 44511, 44512, 44513
Campbell – 44405
Canfield – 44406
Coitsville – 44436
Craig Beach – 44429
Damascus – 44619
Ellsworth – 44416
Greenford – 44422
Lake Milton – 44429
Lowellville – 44436
McDonald – 44437
New Middletown – 44442
New Springfield – 44443
North Benton – 44449
North Jackson – 44451
North Lima – 44452
Petersburg – 44454
Poland – 44514
Sebring – 44672
Struthers – 44471
Youngstown – 44501, 44502, 44503, 44504, 44505, 44506, 44507, 44509, 44510, 44511, 44512, 44513, 44514, 44515, 44555
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
Missed job opportunities or delayed certifications
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