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Need an Ohio BCI or FBI WebCheck background check for work, licensing, volunteering, school, or another approved purpose? This guide explains what to bring, what to confirm with the requesting organization, and how to verify a WebCheck provider before you go.
DMVQ is an independent informational resource, not a WebCheck provider or government agency. We do not perform fingerprinting or process background checks.
Want a one-page checklist? Download DMVQ WebCheck PDF or use the accessible WebCheck checklist.
This page helps you prepare before you visit. The most important thing is to bring the instructions from the employer, licensing board, school, or agency that told you to get fingerprinted. They should tell you whether you need BCI, FBI, or both, and where the results should be sent.
What WebCheck is
WebCheck is Ohio’s electronic fingerprint submission system for civilian background checks. The Ohio Attorney General explains that WebCheck agencies transmit fingerprints and related data electronically to the Bureau of Criminal Investigation, where fingerprints are checked against criminal fingerprint records for the requested background report.
Some checks are Ohio-only BCI checks. Some require an FBI check. Some require both. The requesting organization should tell you exactly which check they need and the reason code or recipient information to use.
What to bring
Bring:
| Bring | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Valid government photo ID | The provider needs to verify your identity before fingerprinting |
| Requesting agency or employer instructions | This should include the background-check type, reason code, and where results should go |
| Any required form or authorization | Some licensing boards, schools, or employers provide a form you must bring |
| Payment | Fees depend on the background-check type and current processing charges |
Fees and figures change. Verify current amounts on bmv.ohio.gov before your visit.
If your requesting organization gave you a code, mailing address, direct-copy instruction, or form, bring it with you. A missing code or recipient can delay your result or require a new submission.
BCI, FBI, or both
Your requesting organization should tell you which background check is required:
| Check | Typical use |
|---|---|
| BCI | Ohio criminal-record background check |
| FBI | National fingerprint-based background check when required for an eligible Ohio purpose |
| BCI and FBI | When both Ohio and national checks are required |
The Ohio Attorney General notes that BCI can process FBI background checks only for specific types of Ohio employment or other eligible purposes. If you need an FBI background check for personal use, follow the FBI’s direct process instead.
Before you visit
- Confirm whether you need BCI, FBI, or both.
- Ask the requesting organization for the reason code, form, or result-recipient instructions.
- Bring a valid government photo ID.
- Bring payment.
- Check queueing options and choose the “Other” service option if available at your location.
Common reasons people need WebCheck
People commonly need a BCI/FBI WebCheck for:
- Employment screening
- Professional licensing
- School or education programs
- Volunteer work
- Health care, child care, or similar roles where a background check is required
Your employer, licensing board, school, or agency is responsible for telling you the exact background-check requirement. A WebCheck provider can perform the fingerprinting and submission, but it cannot decide which check your outside organization requires.
Common questions
Can I get BCI/FBI WebCheck fingerprinting at a BMV deputy registrar? Some deputy registrar offices and approved providers offer Ohio BCI/FBI WebCheck services. Verify current availability with the office or the Ohio Attorney General WebCheck listing before you go.
Do I need an appointment? Check queueing options before you arrive. Choose the “Other” option for WebCheck or background-check service.
What if I do not know whether I need BCI, FBI, or both? Contact the employer, licensing board, school, or agency that requested the check. They should tell you which check is required and provide any reason code or recipient instructions.
Can a WebCheck provider choose the reason code for me? No. The requesting organization should provide the reason code or submission instructions. Bring those instructions with you.
Can I get an FBI background check for personal use here? The Ohio Attorney General says BCI can process FBI background checks only for specific Ohio employment or eligible purposes. For personal-use FBI background checks, follow the FBI’s direct process.
Helpful next pages
Where this information comes from
- Ohio Attorney General, Background Check: https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/backgroundcheck
- Ohio Attorney General, WebCheck Community Listing: https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Business/Services-for-Business/WebCheck/Webcheck-Community-Listing
- Ohio Attorney General, Background Check FAQs: https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/faq/background-check-faqs.aspx