Background Check / Finger Print FAQ
Who needs a criminal history check?
The University of Cincinnati requires a pre-employment criminal history check of all persons being offered a position at the university, except faculty and student employees. All temporary and affiliate employees also need a criminal history check prior to starting their assignment at UC, in addition to those persons working with children at camps held at the university.
Do you offer criminal history checks to individuals who are not affiliated with the University?
Yes, we do perform criminal history checks for those outside the university.
Who does the criminal history checks?
The University of Cincinnati Department of Public Safety.
Where do I get a criminal history check?
The University of Cincinnati Public Safety Department is located at Three Edwards, 51 W. Corry Blvd.
What are the hours of operation?
The office performs criminal history checks from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
What do I need to bring as proof of identity?
You will need a government issued photo ID such as a driver's license, passport or state ID.
How is the check accomplished?
Once your identity has been verified and a release is signed, a Public Safety employee will take you to a Webcheck computer where basic information will be entered and your fingerprints will be taken on a scanning device.
Where does this information go?
The electronic fingerprints and personal information will be sent via an encrypted message to either the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation and/or the FBI.
How long will it take for the results?
If there is no information on file, we get the results within one to two days. If a history is found by the webcheck or the check is selected for hand verification, it could take up to 40 days.
Does this process create a fingerprint record at these agencies?
The electronic fingerprints that are submitted are held for one year for any issues arising out of the submittal. After the time period has expired, the file is destroyed. There is no permanent fingerprint file created at either agency based on this process.
If I work for more than one temporary employment agency, will I be required to have the criminal check twice?
No, a criminal history check is valid for at least one year from the date it was taken.
Is there a cost for a criminal history check?
Yes. The cost is $33 for a check of Ohio records (BCI) and $35 for a national check (FBI).
How do I know which check I need?
What background check you should have done depends on the reason you are getting the background check.
How do I pay for a criminal history check?
Individuals can pay with cash, check and credit cards (Visa, MasterCard and American Express). University Departments should complete the billing form that is online for payment processing. Temporary agencies should make prior payment arrangements with the online billing form. If paying by check, the check should be made payable to the University of Cincinnati Public Safety.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
Please call 513-556-8206. The employee who operates the program will assist you with any questions.