Whether it is for employment, immigration, licensing or volunteering, you might be wondering “How do I get a US FBI clearance?” You can request the Federal Bureau of Investigation to provide an Identity History Summary Check - based on your fingerprint verification - listing information related to your criminal history, detentions, naturalization, federal employment, or military service.
How to Obtain a US FBI Clearance?
There are three ways you can get the FBI clearance certificate:
From Inside the USA
It is the fastest way to submit your application and obtain a clearance certificate from the FBI. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Visit any participating U.S. Post Office or an FBI-authorized location in the USA to submit your fingerprints digitally to the FBI.
Via Mail
Located outside the USA and do not have the option to submit your request electronically to the FBI and wondering “How do I get a US FBI Clearance?” You can follow these steps to send your request via mail.
- Get your fingerprints on a standard form (FD-1164 or FD-258 card) and include this with your application. You may complete the fingerprints with the help of a local police station or reputable fingerprinting agency.
- Complete the online application form with the FBI and submit the processing fee of $18 per person by using the Credit Card Payment
- Form, certified check, or money order payable to the Treasury of the United States.
- Mail all relevant documents, including the applicant information form, your fingerprint card, and the fee to the FBI. Provide a complete mailing address and do not use a self-addressed envelope.
Working with an agency
To avoid the hassles of getting an FBI clearance certificate, you can consult an agency like Globeia which can submit the request on your behalf and help with expediting your application. Here’s how they work:
- The agency will review the fingerprint quality and advise if they are good to proceed as the FBI is stringent with the quality of prints.
- The agency will collect all required fees from you and send them along with your duly completed application form and fingerprint card. They ensure that it will be acceptable and processed without any errors.
- They will receive your background check result electronically and send it to you. You can also request for the physical document for an additional fee.
Why Use an Agency?
There are several reasons why it is worthwhile using an agency to obtain an FBI clearance certificate.
- High levels of accuracy and reliability in the collection and submission of your fingerprints.
- They are compliant with the FBI’s guidelines and ensure the request and your fingerprints are submitted as per their standards.
- An expedited process of obtaining an FBI clearance certificate as they follow a more streamlined approach.