FBI or FDLE Apostille: Which Background Check Do You Need?

What does an FBI check cover compared with FDLE?

The FBI’s Identity History Summary is a fingerprint-based federal service. FDLE’s public criminal-history system covers Florida information only. A private employer’s screening report is a third product and should not be described as an FBI report simply because fingerprints were collected during a screening appointment.

Is an instant FDLE result suitable for apostille?

FDLE’s CCHInet overview says its instant Internet results are not certified and points users to a separate certified-results request. Its SHIELD process lets applicants request certification and mails processed results. If the destination requires a certified Florida report for authentication, do not assume an emailed instant-search printout has that certification. Confirm the required issuing signature and preparation before filing.

Are fingerprints, the report and apostille separate services?

• Fingerprint collection: creates the biometric submission, not the apostille.
• Report issuance: the FBI or FDLE produces the requested result through its authorized process.
• Apostille: the competent federal or Florida authority authenticates the relevant official signature.
• Translation and return delivery: follow the receiving authority’s format and deadline.

Which report does the overseas recipient actually request?

Obtain the exact report name, accepted maximum age, destination and translation instructions. Compare quotations by what they actually include. State and federal fees, report fees and shipping differ; a quick fingerprint appointment does not mean the apostille will be completed on the same schedule.