So, You Wanna Be Florida's Finest (or at least Not Its Finest Felon): A Guide to Level 2 Background Checks
Sunshine, beaches, maybe an alligator or two... Florida's got it all! But before you trade your parka for flip-flops and chase that dream job working with vulnerable adults or kiddos, there's a little hurdle to jump: the Level 2 Background Check.
Fear not, fellow adventurer! This guide will have you navigating the background check bureaucracy smoother than a manatee on a Segway (don't ask, it's a Florida thing).
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| How To Get A Level 2 Background Check Florida |
Step 1: You've Got Mail (But It's Not From a Secret Admirer)
Hold on to your swimfins! The fun starts with your employer or licensing agency. They'll initiate the background check through the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) Clearinghouse. This magical portal generates a special code you'll need later.
Remember this code like your grandma's secret pecan pie recipe! You'll need it for the fingerprinting fun coming up next.
Step 2: Gettin' Inky (It's Not a Squid Attack)
Think James Bond, but with less espionage and more fingerprint dust. You'll need to visit a live scan fingerprinting vendor. Don't worry, it's not the CIA. These are folks who are experts in capturing your ten little troopers electronically.
Tip: Reading in chunks improves focus.
Here's the fingerprinting lowdown:
- Find a Vendor: These guys are everywhere, from sheriff's offices to private businesses. Ask your employer or a quick Google search can help you find one.
- Bring Your Code: Remember that special code from the AHCA Clearinghouse? This is your golden ticket to getting scanned.
- Don't Panic: The fingerprinting process is quick and painless. Unless you've been swimming in ink lately, you'll be done in a flash.
Step 3: The Waiting Game (hopefully not with a gator)
Now comes the not-so-thrilling part: waiting. The FDLE (Florida Department of Law Enforcement) will scour the Sunshine State's databases for any criminal records matching your lovely fingerprints. This usually takes 2-3 business days, but hey, use the time to perfect your air guitar skills!
Important Note: If your past includes a run-in with the law, don't despair! There might still be a chance to land that job. It depends on the nature of the offense.
Step 4: The Big Reveal (hopefully no skeletons in the closet)
Once the FDLE does its detective work, you'll receive your Level 2 Background Check report. This report goes to your employer or licensing agency, not you directly. But they'll let you know if you passed with flying colors (or, you know, not-so-criminal colors).
Tip: Stop when you find something useful.
Fingers crossed, you're good to go! Now you can finally trade in your metaphorical parka for those flip-flops and chase your Florida dreams.
But hey, even the best of us might have some questions. Here are a few FAQs to set your mind at ease:
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How to Find a Live Scan Fingerprinting Vendor?
A quick Google search with "Florida Live Scan Fingerprinting" should do the trick.
Tip: Look for small cues in wording.
How Much Does a Level 2 Background Check Cost?
The cost varies depending on the vendor, but expect to pay somewhere between $50 and $100.
How Long is a Level 2 Background Check Valid?
There's no expiration date on a Level 2 Background Check. However, some employers might require a new one after a certain period.
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
How Can I Dispute Errors on My Background Check?
If you find any mistakes on your report, contact the FDLE to initiate a dispute process.
How Do I Know if I Need a Level 2 Background Check?
This is best answered by your employer or licensing agency. Generally, these checks are required for professions working with vulnerable adults or children.
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