FDLE vs FBI Background Check: What's the Difference in Florida?
Published: 2026-06-02 · Last verified: 2026-06-02
Quick Answer
An FDLE background check searches Florida criminal records only. An FBI background check searches national criminal records from all states. Florida's Level 2 Live Scan fingerprinting covers both — FDLE forwards fingerprints to the FBI as part of the same submission. Most Florida agency requirements are satisfied by a single Level 2 Live Scan submission.
In This Article
- 1.What is an FDLE Background Check?
- 2.What is an FBI Background Check?
- 3.How They Work Together in Florida
- 4.When You Might Need a Separate FBI Check
- 5.FD-258 Ink Cards vs. Live Scan
- 6.Disclaimer
What is an FDLE Background Check?
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) maintains Florida's statewide criminal history repository. An FDLE background check searches Florida criminal records for arrests, convictions, and other relevant criminal history events recorded in Florida.
FDLE also operates the Live Scan fingerprinting system, through which FDLE-registered providers like Sky Bright LiveScan submit fingerprints on behalf of individuals seeking background checks for employment, licensing, or other regulated purposes.
What is an FBI Background Check?
The FBI maintains the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and the Interstate Identification Index (III), which contain criminal records from all 50 states and U.S. territories. An FBI background check searches these national databases and can reveal criminal history from states other than Florida.
FBI background checks require fingerprinting — you cannot complete an FBI check with just a name and date of birth.
How They Work Together in Florida
In Florida, a Level 2 background check through FDLE's Live Scan system includes both an FDLE state search AND an FBI national search in a single submission. When you are fingerprinted at Sky Bright LiveScan, your fingerprints are transmitted to FDLE, which then forwards them to the FBI as part of the same process.
This means that for most Florida-regulated employment and licensing purposes, a single Level 2 Live Scan submission satisfies both the state (FDLE) and national (FBI) search requirements.
When You Might Need a Separate FBI Check
Some out-of-state agencies, federal employers, immigration purposes, or non-Florida licensing boards may require a separate FBI Identity History Summary (also called an FBI Criminal Background Check or 'Identity History Summary'). This requires submitting FD-258 ink fingerprint cards directly to the FBI or through an FBI-approved channeler.
Sky Bright LiveScan provides FD-258 ink fingerprint card services for situations that require a direct FBI submission. See our FD-258 service page for details.
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Sky Bright LiveScan helps with fingerprint capture and submission. We do not make hiring, licensing, eligibility, or background check approval decisions. Requirements, processing times, and fees are subject to change — always verify current requirements with your employer, licensing board, or requesting agency before scheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & References
- FDLE Background Screening Program — fdle.state.fl.us
- FBI Identity History Summary — fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/need-an-fbi-background-check
Last verified: 2026-06-02. Content is subject to change — always verify current requirements with the relevant agency.
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