Frequently Asked Questions

The Clearinghouse is Florida's central system for completing and sharing Level 2 background screenings. It was created under Section 435.12, Florida Statutes to make the process faster, cheaper, and more consistent across multiple state agencies. 

Level 2 background screening is the most comprehensive background check required under Section 435.04, Florida Statutes. It applies to individuals in positions of trust or responsibility.  

What does it include?

• Fingerprinting via an FDLE-approved Livescan provider
• State and national criminal history checks (FDLE and FBI databases)
• Review for disqualifying offenses
• Eligibility determination by the appropriate agency

Screening is required for many types of providers and employees, including:

• Health care workers in facilities licensed by AHCA (assisted living, nursing homes, home health, hospice, clinics, etc.)
• Child and family service staff regulated by DCF (foster care, child care, summer camps, treatment programs, recovery residences)
• Licensed health professionals under DOH.  As of July 1, 2025, most health care practitioners must comply with background screening requirements when applying for initial licensure or renewing their license.
• School staff and volunteers regulated by DOE (districts, charter schools, student teachers)
• Elder care providers under DOEA (CNA's, aides, case managers, drivers, volunteers)
• Juvenile justice staff and contractors under DJJ

See more details on the Who needs to be Screened Page for more information. 

1. Create an Account in the Clearinghouse Results Website (CRW)

2. Initiate a new screening by entering your information

3. Schedule a fingerprinting appointment with an FDLE-approved vendor

4. Check your status in the CRW portal

Need help? Download the Clearinghouse User Guide PDF

The full process typically takes 5 to 7 business days. 

While fingerprint transmission from the Livescan vendor to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) can take 24 to 72 business hours, the Background Screening Unit generally completes its review within 5 to 7 business days after receiving the results from FDLE. 

• New Applicant Screening: $60 + LiveScan fee. Includes 5 year retention of fingerprints.
• Add a Current Employee to the Clearinghouse: $60 + Livescan Fee. Includes 5 year retention.
• Renewal Screening: $42. Extends fingerprint retention for 5 years.
• Resubmission: $12. Required after a 90 day break in employment.
• Agency Review: Free. Agencies can share screenings already in the Clearinghouse

Note: Fees are either paid directly to the Livescan provider (for new/add screenings) or through the Clearinghouse system (for renewals and resubmissions)

If the FBI finds your fingerprints unreadable, the Department will send you a letter instructing you to return to the original service provider for a re-roll. Bring the letter with you—it includes your TCN and TCR, which are required for resubmission. You have 180 days from the first rejection to redo your prints without paying the FBI fee. After that, you’ll be responsible for the cost. 

Disqualifying offenses are specific criminal charges listed in Florida law that can prevent individuals from working in positions involving children, seniors, or vulnerable adults. These offenses are considered serious and include:

• Violent crimes (e.g., 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 

Each agency may apply disqualification rules differently, depending on the role or license. The complete list is available in the official Disqualifying Offenses List (PDF).

• Renewals: Required every 5 years when your retained fingerprints expire.  Only available 60 days before expiration.   
• Resubmissions: Required if you've had a 90 day break in employment.