Common ORI Number Mistakes in Florida

One of the most common mistakes is using an ORI number that a coworker or friend gave you, rather than obtaining it directly from your employer or licensing agency. ORI numbers vary by job role, license type, and sometimes even by facility.

What worked for your coworker may not be correct for your specific position or license application. Always get your ORI directly from your employer's HR department or the state licensing agency.

Healthcare workers often confuse AHCA and FDOH ORI numbers. AHCA (Agency for Health Care Administration) and FDOH (Florida Department of Health) are separate agencies with entirely different ORI codes.

Nurses working in ALFs or home health agencies typically need AHCA ORI numbers. Nurses applying for state licensure typically need FDOH ORI numbers. In some cases, both may be required. Ask your employer and the licensing agency which ORI applies.

Florida agencies occasionally update or change their ORI numbers. An ORI that was correct last year may have changed. Never assume a saved ORI from a past job is still valid.

Always verify your ORI with the current requesting agency before each new fingerprinting appointment.

ORI numbers use both letters and numbers, and certain characters look similar: the letter 'O' versus the number '0', or the letter 'I' versus the number '1'. A single character error results in an invalid ORI.

When verifying your ORI, spell it out character by character. If in doubt, ask your employer to confirm each character of the code in writing.

Some agencies have separate ORI numbers for paid staff versus volunteers. The Florida DOE, for example, uses different ORI codes for teachers (EDOEPUBS1) and volunteers (VDOEPUBS3). Using the volunteer ORI for a paid teaching position can delay or invalidate your background check.

Confirm with your employer whether you need a paid staff or volunteer ORI for your specific situation.