The background record check process
The background record check process begins after you submit your FCC license application. You will get an email with a Background Record Check (BRC) consent form. Signing this form begins your BRC process. You will get another email with instructions for the next steps. This includes an in-person fingerprinting appointment.
All required household members and visitors listed on your application must also complete the BRC process. They will get their own consent form and instructions by email.
Criminal history databases we check
The BRC process includes fingerprint-based state and national criminal checks. The Massachusetts State Police uses fingerprint scans for a state criminal history check. State records checks include:
- Massachusetts Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI): Includes juvenile records, sealed records, non-delinquent findings, delinquent findings, convictions, and non-convictions
- Department of Children and Families (DCF): Includes supported 51B findings of child abuse or neglect by DCF
- Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI): Includes individuals who have been classified as a level 1-3 sex offender by the Massachusetts Sex Offender Registry Board
The Federal Bureau of Investigation also uses fingerprint scans for a national criminal history check. National records checks include:
- National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR)
- Out-of-state record checks for anyone living outside of Massachusetts in the past 5 years
Learn more about background record check disqualifying offenses