Background Check

Teacher Educator Licensing Links

 

The State Office of Education requires that all students be subjected to a criminal background check prior to spending any unsupervised time in a classroom. Secondary Education students must submit their background check application at the time of admission to the program. To request that an application packet be mailed to you, click here. Please provide your mailing address in the e-mail message.

Frequently Asked Questions about Background Checks

Why does it cost $60.00?

That is the fee set by the State Office of Education. The fee covers administrative costs, the cost of a BCI criminal check and the cost of an FBI criminal check.

How long does it take to get my results back?

It takes an average of 10-12 weeks, if there are no problems. If you have smudged prints or some other problem, the time could be considerably longer. This is why we recommend having your application in early.

Will I be notified of the results?

You will only be notified if there is a problem. If you don't hear anything from the State, you can assume that you have been cleared.

How long is the background check valid?

Three years. If you do not graduate within three years you will be required to complete another background check.

I work for a school district and had to have a background check done through them. Can I just use that one in place of yours?

The State Office of Education will not accept copies of background checks done for another group. We have to have the original check done through this office. School districts only check through the BCI. The State requires an FBI clearance as well.

Where can I go to get fingerprinted?

If you are on campus, the University Police will fingerprint you on Tuesdays, by appointment, for a small fee. You can also go to any other law enforcement agency to be printed. You cannot print yourself!!

Who should sight the witness line on the green form?

Anyone who knows you and can verify that you are the person signing the form. A friend or relative is a good person to ask.

Can I write a check?

NO. The State Office will only accept money orders. Students often move or change bank accounts and this makes it difficult for the State to try and track down the money if a check is returned. It is illegal to send cash through the mail.

I'm not sure how to fill out this money order.

All money orders are different depending on where you buy them. They may look intimidating, but if you just look at it carefully you will be able to figure it out. The "Pay to" will be the State Office of Education. It may or may not ask for their address. You are the purchaser. The money order should ask for your name to be written somewhere. If it asks for the purchaser's signature or address, that is you. Verify that there is not an expiration date on the money order.

Can I mail my forms in?

Yes. Mail them to: Educator Licensing Office, 2800 Old Main Hill, Logan UT 84322-2800. Please mark the envelope "Do Not Bend." If your fingerprints are bent or folded you will have to redo them. DO NOT MAIL THESE FORMS DIRECTLY TO THE STATE!!