A Florida Level 2 Background Check is the highest level of screening in the state. It includes FBI and FDLE fingerprinting, identity verification, and a review of disqualifying offenses under Florida Statute 435. This guide explains everything employers and applicants need to stay compliant in 2026.
What Is a Level 2 Background Check?
A Level 2 background check includes:
- FBI national criminal history check
- FDLE state criminal history check
- Electronic fingerprinting
- Identity verification
- Disqualifying offense review
- Ongoing arrest monitoring (for many agencies)
It is required for positions of trust or responsibility across multiple industries in Florida.
Who Needs a Level 2 Background Check in Florida?
Industries requiring Level 2 screening include:
- Healthcare and medical facilities
- Home health and assisted living facilities
- Childcare centers and educational institutions
- Foster care and adoption applicants
- Security officers and loss prevention
- Transportation and paratransit services
- Real estate professionals and licensing applicants
- Government contractors and federal positions
Each agency uses a unique ORI number to route results correctly.
Understanding ORI Numbers — Why They Matter
The ORI (Originating Agency Identifier) is a critical piece of information that tells FDLE exactly where to send your background check results. Think of it as a routing code for your fingerprints.
If the ORI is incorrect:
- Results go to the wrong agency
- FDLE will not refund the processing fee
- You must be re-fingerprinted with the correct ORI
- Your hiring timeline is delayed significantly
This is the #1 cause of background check delays in Florida. Never guess an ORI number, and never use someone else's ORI.
How to Find Your Correct ORI Number
Your employer, licensing board, school, or HR department must provide your ORI number before your fingerprinting appointment. Ask directly — do not assume or estimate.
Common agencies and their purposes:
- AHCA — Healthcare and long-term care facilities
- DCF — Child welfare and family services
- DOH — Department of Health licensing
- DBPR — Professional licensing and regulation
- FDACS — Agriculture and consumer services
- DOE — Department of Education
- Local School Districts — K-12 employment
What to Bring to Your Fingerprinting Appointment
Prepare these items before arriving:
- Valid government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
- Your correct ORI number (written down)
- Any agency-specific forms or paperwork
- Payment method (cash, card, or check — varies by location)
How the Fingerprinting Process Works
At The Verelle Group, the entire process takes approximately 10 minutes:
- Identity Verification — We confirm your identity using your government ID
- Electronic Fingerprint Capture — Digital scanning captures all ten fingerprints
- Submission to FDLE/FBI — Your prints are transmitted securely to state and federal databases
- Results Sent to Agency — Results are routed directly to your employer or licensing board
Note: Applicants do not receive their own results unless specifically authorized by the requesting agency.
How Long Do Level 2 Results Take?
Turnaround times vary based on database availability and record complexity:
- Instant to 72 hours: Most results are returned within this window
- 3 to 7 days: Results requiring manual review or clarification
- Up to 30 days: Low-quality fingerprints, out-of-state records, or court case verification
Delays are common when ORI numbers are incorrect or when fingerprint quality is poor.
Common Reasons for Background Check Delays
Understanding these delays helps you avoid them:
- Incorrect ORI number — Results routed to wrong agency
- Poor fingerprint quality — Requires resubmission or manual processing
- Name mismatches — Legal name changes, maiden names, or aliases
- Open court cases — Pending charges or ongoing litigation
- Out-of-state records — Multi-state criminal history verification
- Missing documents — Incomplete agency paperwork
Can Level 2 Fingerprints Be Reused?
Fingerprints can only be reused under specific conditions:
- The agency participates in fingerprint retention programs
- The applicant remains in the same industry or role
- The ORI allows sharing between agencies
- The original background check is still valid
Most Florida agencies do not allow fingerprint reuse. If you change employers or industries, expect to be re-fingerprinted.
Level 1 vs. Level 2 Background Checks: Key Differences
| Feature | Level 1 | Level 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Name-based search | Yes | No |
| Fingerprint-based search | No | Yes |
| FDLE state check | Yes | Yes |
| FBI national check | No | Yes |
| Disqualifying offenses review | Limited | Extensive |
| Suitable for high-trust roles | No | Yes |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Level 2 checks are more thorough and are required for sensitive positions involving children, vulnerable adults, or access to secure facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Level 2 background check cost?
Costs typically range from $70 to $95 depending on the requesting agency and service provider.
Can I get a copy of my background check results?
Only if the requesting agency authorizes it. Most results are sent directly to employers or licensing boards, not to applicants.
What if my fingerprints are rejected or unclear?
You may qualify for one free resubmission. Additional attempts may incur fees.
Do arrests show up on a Level 2 check even without convictions?
Yes — Level 2 checks display arrests, charges, and dispositions regardless of conviction status.
How long is a Level 2 background check valid?
Validity depends on the agency. Most are valid for 1 to 5 years. Check with your employer or licensing board for specific requirements.
Why Employers Choose The Verelle Group
- Mobile fingerprinting services to your location
- In-office appointments for convenience
- Expert compliance guidance and ORI support
- Fast turnaround times
- Employer onboarding and bulk screening programs
- Secure, confidential processing
Ready to schedule your Level 2 background check? Contact The Verelle Group today for mobile or in-office fingerprinting services across Florida.