A standard pre-employment background check often takes around one to two weeks, but it can be shorter or longer depending on the factors being considered.
Let’s take a look at those factors below.
- Scope of the Check: The time required for a pre-employment background check depends on its scope. Standard checks often include criminal history, education verification, employment history, and reference checks. More extensive checks, such as credit history or international background checks, can take longer.
- Criminal Background Checks: Criminal history checks are a critical component. In many cases, these checks can be completed within a few days, especially if conducted at the county level. However, delays may occur if a candidate has lived in multiple jurisdictions.
- Education Verification: Verifying educational credentials may take some time, especially if the educational institution has specific procedures for responding to verification requests. This process typically takes a week or two.
- Employment Verification: Confirming past employment details can vary. Some companies have streamlined processes, while others may take more time. Contacting previous employers and waiting for responses can extend the verification process.
- Credit History Checks: If a credit history check is part of the process, it may add extra time. This type of check requires authorization from the candidate, and the reporting agencies may take some time to provide the information.
- International Background Checks: If a candidate has lived or worked internationally, the background check may involve dealing with various legal systems and databases, potentially extending the timeline.
- Efficiency of Screening Provider: The efficiency of the background screening provider also plays a role. Reputable providers with established processes may complete checks more quickly than less experienced or less organized ones.
