Education & Awareness

What is Level 2 Background Screening?

Level 2 background screening is Florida's highest level of background check. It is required by Section 435.04 Florida Statues for individuals working in positions of responsibility or trust.

A Level 2 checklist includes:

Fingerprinting through an FDLE approved Livescan provider
State and national criminal history checks (FDLE and FBI database)
Review for disqualifying offenses that would make someone ineligible for employment
Eligibility determination by the responsible agency

In short, Level 2 screening helps ensure that people who care for children, seniors, and vulnerable populations are safe and trustworthy.

Disqualifying Offenses

What They Are

Disqualifying Offenses are specific criminal charges listed in Florida Law that can prevent someone from working in jobs involving children, seniors, or vulnerable adults. These include serious crimes such as:

Violent crimes (murder, aggravated assault, aggravated battery)
Abuse or neglect of children, elders, or disabled adults
Sexual misconduct or exploitation
Kidnapping or human trafficking
Fraud, theft, or financial exploitation
Certain serious drug related offenses.

Why It Matters

If your background screening shows one of these offenses, you will receive a "Not Eligible" determination in the Clearinghouse.

Disqualifying Offenses are Agency Specific

Each agency may apply the disqualification rules differently, depending on the role or license. Some statues are agency specific. See the [Disqualifying Offenses List (PDF)] for the complete list by statute and agency.

Exemption from Disqualification

What They Are:

An exemption is a process that allows someone with a disqualifying offense to be reconsidered for employment. If granted, the person may legally work in covered positions even with that past offense. Each agency manages its own exemption process.

Exemptions Often Require Documentation of:

Court records and final dispositions
Arrest reports
Proof of completed probation or parole
Receipts for all fines, fees, restitution paid in full
Proof of rehabilitation (training, education, volunteer work, awards, counseling)

Reach out to your agency about its exemption process.