Skip to main content

System Status: 

  1. Home
  2. Human Resources
  3. Supervising & Management
  4. Hiring
  5. Background Checks

Background Checks

Last Updated: January 9, 2025 2:03:16 PM PST
Give feedback

Find out about background checks and when to use them.

Background checks help ensure a safe work environment and the protection of key organizational assets, including people, property, and information. Per UCOP policy a position that is defined as "critical" requires a background check. This applies for people hired, promoted, reclassified, or transferred into certain staff positions designated as "critical" which includes, but is not limited to, positions that have access to cars, keys, cash, children, computers, and sensitive information. Effective January 1, 2025, background checks include misconduct disclosures as required by California Senate Bill SB 791 and California Assembly Bill AB 810. Please visit Talent Support Services for additional information.

Steps

  1. Use the UCOP policy 21.E. Appointment - Background Checks - Systemwide Guidelines on Designating Critical Positions to determine the appropriate screening services (in addition to the required criminal background check package ancillary services such as Motor Vehicle Record, Education Verification, Credit History may be appropriate. Please consult your Talent Advisor for additional guidance).
  2. Navigate to Talent Support Services to request services. If necessary contact Human Resources to assist you with the process and forms. Job offer and start date are contingent on the results of the background check.

Also see How to Conduct Reference Checks.

Cost

Departments are responsible for the cost of background checks, which vary based on the kind of check and the agency that conducts it. Generally, Human Resources works with two kinds of agencies:

Universal Background Screening (primary method for campus)

  • Method: Reporting agencies use the individual's name, Social Security number, date of birth, or driver license number to verify identity and other requested information.
  • Fees can vary depending on the address(es) identified for the applicant and the level of service (county, state, district, and agency fees may apply).  A processing fee of $30 is charged in addition to consumer reporting agency fees.

California Department of Justice (DOJ) Live Scan

  • Method: DOJ uses laser-scanning technology to check fingerprints against state and FBI criminal  records.
  • DOJ & FBI (National check) - $77 (Live Scan should only be utilized by departments with regulatory or contractual requirements)
Contact Talent Support Services
Note: Other fees may apply for other kinds of checks.
Notice: This is a summary of campus business services. In case of conflict in interpretation, the actual policies apply.