When you’re ready to bring a new employee on board, waiting on a background check can feel like the longest part of the process. Understandably, most businesses want to know:
“How long does a background check take?”
The short answer?
It depends on the scope of your screening, how many jurisdictions are searched, how responsive former employers are, and even the local courthouse.
Here’s a practical look at what typically affects turnaround times, so you can plan your hiring with fewer surprises.
The Usual Timeline: 1 to 5 Business Days
Most standard employment background checks wrap up in 1 to 5 business days. A simple criminal check might be back the same day, while a full package with employment, education, and driving history might take a bit longer.
At Swailes Backgrounds, we aim to complete most standard checks within 2 to 3 days, because we know your time, and your candidate’s, is valuable.
What Affects How Long a Background Check Takes?
Type of Searches Ordered
- County criminal records: These are often the slowest piece. Many county courts still require manual, in-person record pulls.
- State & national databases: Usually fast, often same-day.
- Federal criminal checks: Generally quick, 1-2 days.
Employment & Education Verifications
When calling past employers or schools, timing depends on how quickly they respond. Some employers get back to us within hours. Others may take a few days, especially small businesses that don’t have dedicated HR staff or seasonal businesses.
Driving Records (MVR)
Motor vehicle records are often returned within 24 hours, depending on the state.
Credit Checks
These are usually instant, once authorization is in hand.
Drug Testing
If your background package includes a drug screen, timing depends on how quickly the candidate gets to the collection site and how soon the lab processes results, typically 24-72 hours.
Court Delays & Busy Seasons
Certain counties have slow systems or manual-only searches. Holidays, court staffing, or high hiring seasons (like summer) can stretch timelines.
How You Can Speed Things Up
- Get clear, complete candidate info upfront. Typos in names, missing addresses, or wrong dates of employment slow things down.
- Have the candidate sign disclosures promptly. The clock can’t start until authorization is in.
- Use a professional screening partner. At Swailes Backgrounds, we know which counties tend to delay and often build in smart workarounds to avoid unnecessary hold-ups.
Why It’s Worth Waiting for the Right Info
It might be tempting to rush through or skip steps, but quality background checks protect your business from costly hiring mistakes, compliance problems, or even negligent hiring claims.
With the right process, you’ll get fast, accurate, FCRA-compliant results, and a new hire you can truly feel good about.
Want a Background Check That’s Both Thorough & Fast?
At Swailes Backgrounds, we blend speed with precision. Most checks are back in just a couple days, without cutting corners on accuracy or compliance.
Get in touch with us today to build a screening program that’s right for your business.
Quick FAQ
Why do some background checks take longer?
Usually because of slow court systems, hard-to-reach former employers, or incomplete candidate info.
Can I get a “rush” background check?
We’ll always prioritize urgent needs, but it depends on the type of search. Some courts just can’t be rushed but we might have workarounds in some cases.
Will the candidate see the report?
Yes. Under the FCRA, they’re entitled to see their report and dispute errors.
Need Help with Background Checks or Compliance?
Whether you’re hiring new talent or updating your screening processes, the Swailes Background Check team is here to help. From criminal background checks and FCRA compliance to drug testing, employment and education verifications, MVR reports, credit history reviews, and Social Security number validation, we provide fast enrollment and expert support every step of the way.
Contact us today to streamline your screening process with confidence.