Federal Law (Title 28, C.F.R., § 50.12 (b)) requires the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) to notify individuals subject to a fingerprint-based background check of the purpose of the fingerprint check and the method to correct errors on the FBI identification record.

About Background Checks

In order to determine a person’s character and fitness, DFI requires a background check based upon the individual’s fingerprints. These background checks are required by several state laws, including RCW 18.44, RCW 19.230, RCW 19.146 and RCW 31.04.

About Fingerprint Usage

Your fingerprints will be used to check the criminal history record files that are kept by the Washington State patrol (WSP) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Challenging Accuracy of Background Checks

If you believe the results of your background check are not complete or are incorrect, you have an opportunity to complete or challenge the accuracy of the information. The Department will afford you a reasonable amount of time to correct or complete your record before a licensing decision is made. To complete or challenge the accuracy of your record:

Washington State Patrol (WSP):
Challenging the accuracy of background check results with the WSP

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI):
Challenging the accuracy of your background check results with the FBI.

Applicant’s Privacy Rights

Noncriminal Justice Applicant’s Privacy Rights

FBI Privacy Act Statement

Federal Bureau of Investigation Privacy Act Statement

Fingerprint Card Instructions

Fingerprint Card Instructions