Absolutely! Here’s a long and detailed step-by-step guide on how to obtain an FBI Criminal Background Check (Identity History Summary), including how to get biometrics (fingerprints) done, where to submit your application, processing times, fees, and official backlinks.
This guide is perfect for U.S. citizens or residents needing an FBI background check for immigration, employment, adoption, travel, visa applications, or apostille certification for international use.
How to Get an FBI Background Check (Identity History Summary) – Complete Step-by-Step Guide
What Is an FBI Background Check?
An FBI Background Check, also known as an Identity History Summary (IdHS), is a report that contains any criminal history associated with your fingerprints in the FBI’s national database. It is often required for:
• International visa and immigration processes
• Foreign residency or dual citizenship applications
• Government jobs or clearances
• Adoption (domestic and international)
• Apostille certification
• Employment with private firms (especially abroad)
Official FBI background check page:
https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an FBI Background Check
STEP 1: Choose Your Submission Method
You can request your FBI Background Check in one of three ways:
1. Directly through the FBI (mail or online)
2. Using an FBI-Approved Channeler
3. Via U.S. Embassy or Consulate (if abroad)
For fastest results, use Option #2: An FBI-Approved Channeler.
List of FBI-Approved Channelers:
https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks#Approved-Channelers
STEP 2: Get Your Fingerprints Taken (Biometrics)
You must submit fingerprints for the FBI to process your background check.
Where to Get Fingerprints Done:
• Local police departments or sheriff’s offices
• Live Scan providers in California:
Find a California Live Scan Location
• FBI-authorized fingerprinting services (e.g., PrintScan, Fieldprint)
• Mobile notary/fingerprint services
If you plan to apostille your FBI background check, fingerprints must be on FD-258 fingerprint cards.
Download the FD-258 card here (PDF):
https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/standard-fingerprint-form-fd-258-1.pdf
Fingerprinting Tips:
• Bring a valid photo ID
• Use black ink only
• Complete all fields on the card clearly
• Make sure prints are legible – smudged cards will be rejected
• Get 2–3 fingerprint cards in case of rejection
Fingerprinting cost:
$25–$50, depending on provider and location
STEP 3: Submit Your Application
Option A: Apply Online Directly Through FBI
1. Visit:
2. Create an account and fill out the application.
3. Pay the fee online:
• 
$18 USD (non-refundable)
• Payment by credit/debit card
4. Mail your FD-258 fingerprint card to:
FBI CJIS Division – Summary Request
1000 Custer Hollow Road
Clarksburg, WV 26306Use a trackable mailing service like USPS Priority, FedEx, or UPS.
You will receive a digital copy (PDF) of your report via email and a mailed hard copy if requested.
Processing time: 3–5 business days once fingerprints are received.
Option B: Use an FBI-Approved Channeler
An FBI Channeler is a private company authorized to expedite background checks.
Advantages:
• Faster turnaround (1–2 days)
• Often includes fingerprinting service on-site
• Secure delivery of digital results
Some top FBI-Approved Channelers:
• PrintScan: https://www.printscan.com
• Fieldprint: https://www.fieldprintusa.com
• National Background Check, Inc.: https://www.nationalbackgroundcheck.com
Channeler fees vary: $50–$90 total (including processing and fingerprints)
STEP 4: Receive Your FBI Background Check
You can choose to receive:
• Digital PDF copy via email
• Hard copy by mail
• Both
Make sure the report includes:
• Full name
• Date of birth
• Date of processing
• Official FBI seal
Step 5 (Optional): Apostille Your FBI Background Check
If your background check is for use outside the United States, you will likely need it apostilled by the U.S. Department of State.
How to Apostille an FBI Background Check:
1. Ensure the background check is issued by the FBI directly (not just local police)
2. Submit the document to:
U.S. Department of State – Authentications Office
600 19th Street NW
Washington, DC 20006 Official State Department Apostille Instructions:
Fee: $20 per document
Processing time: 2–3 weeks (expedited services available)
Want faster processing? You can also use a registered apostille service like:
• https://www.apostillepros.com
• https://www.usauthentication.com
Quick Checklist of What You’ll Need
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid photo ID | Driver’s license, passport, or state ID |
| FD-258 card | Fingerprints in black ink or electronic scan |
| Completed application | Online form via FBI EDO or paper form |
| Payment | $18 to FBI (credit card) or $50–$90 to channelers |
| Mailing envelope | If applying by mail, use a trackable method |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get an FBI background check?
• FBI Direct (mail-in): 3–5 business days (plus shipping time)
• FBI Channeler: 24–72 hours
• Apostille: 2–3 weeks (standard), 1–5 business days (expedited)
Can I get fingerprinted at home?
Yes! You can:
• Order FD-258 fingerprint cards
• Use mobile fingerprinting services in California
• Use fingerprinting kiosks via companies like PrintScan
What if I have no criminal history?
Your Identity History Summary will state:
“No Identity History Summary Information was found on file at the FBI.”
Official Links & Resources
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| FBI Background Check Main Page | https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks |
| FBI Online Application (EDO) | https://www.edo.cjis.gov |
| FD-258 Fingerprint Card (PDF) | https://www.fbi.gov/file-repository/standard-fingerprint-form-fd-258-1.pdf |
| FBI-Approved Channelers | https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks#Approved-Channelers |
| Apostille Information (U.S. State Dept) | https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/records-and-authentications/authenticate-your-document/apostille-requirements.html |
Final Thoughts
Getting your FBI background check is easier than ever thanks to online submissions and fingerprinting options in California. Whether you need it for immigration, dual citizenship, work, or apostille, this guide should help you do it fast, correctly, and legally.
Need help apostilling your FBI background check? I can help with that too—just ask!
