Background checks have become a driving force in the workplace. While basic background checks help with identity verification, more in-depth checks are necessary for jobs that have more responsibilities or clearance. That said, what shows up on these background screenings can vary depending on the level of the check.
So, what is a level 2 background screening? Stick around to find out in this article. We take you through everything you must know.
What Is a Level 2 Background Screening?
A level 2 background screening is an intensive background check that tends to require fingerprints. Many employers also require providing an SSN for background check purposes to ensure accurate identity verification and access to complete national records. What’s more, these background checks go beyond name and employment verification because they include sex offender status, criminal records, and much more. It’s also important to note that the key difference between a level 2 background screening and a level 1 background screening is the fact that level 2 screenings look at criminal records from across the United States, whereas level 1 checks are usually state-level checks.
Not all jobs require level 2 background screenings. However, the jobs that do require these screenings tend to be jobs with a lot of responsibility. Jobs that involve government clearance, working with children, or working with the elderly also tend to require level 2 background screenings. Military and police work also tends to require more extensive background checks, as well as financial advisors and fiduciaries.
What Shows Up on a Level 2 Background Screening?
Level 2 background screenings reveal a lot of information about someone, more so than a standard background check. That said, it also covers a lot of what’s included in your average background check, so think of it as a more in-depth version of these checks.
On a level 2 background screening, you can expect to find the following information:
- National criminal records, so not just at the state level.
- Someone’s employment and education history, along with transcripts and other records.
- Sex offender status on state and national registries.
- Identify verification.
- Drug screenings (sometimes).
- Driving records (sometimes).
At the end of the day, what shows up on a level 2 background check comes down to the organization running the check.
How Long Does a Level 2 Background Screening Take?
Level 2 background screenings aren’t as fast as your average background check. For this reason, you can expect them to take about one business week. If you’re lucky, you may be done faster, but sometimes it can take even longer. In fact, it’s not unheard of for a level 2 background screening to take two weeks.
How Far Back Does a Level 2 Background Screening Go?
In most cases, level 2 background checks go back around seven to ten years. That said, some states may allow these background checks to go back even further. Therefore, it depends on state laws. For example, Texas allows criminal records to be viewed indefinitely, even for hiring decisions.
How to Prepare for a Level 2 Background Screening
The best way to prepare for a level 2 background screening is to use a tool like UnMask. The background check tools that UnMask offers enable you to check your records at any time. Simply enter your name and address to learn more about what will appear in your criminal records.
The best part about using UnMask is that you don’t have to worry about any state-level limitations. Instead, UnMask helps you find public records from across the country. Everything the tool helps you find is then condensed into a comprehensive full report that contains criminal records, court records, real estate records, and much more.
Not only is UnMask great for checking your records, but with consent from an applicant, you can use the tool to run additional background checks.
What Is a Level 2 Background Screening? Our Final Thoughts
So, what is a level 2 background screening? At the end of the day, it’s a more in-depth background screening. Typically, you’ll need to provide fingerprints, and these checks are reserved for people who will have more complex jobs or for people who work with children or the elderly.
A lot of information is available through these checks, ranging from criminal records to sex offender status, so it’s important to be prepared. Always check your public records before going through one of these background screenings.
