How Long Does It Take to Get an FBI Background Check?

Quick Answer

Getting an FBI background check (officially an Identity History Summary Check) takes 1 day to 4 weeks depending on how you request it. Electronic submission directly through the FBI typically returns results in 3–5 business days. An FBI-approved Channeler is usually the fastest route at 1–3 business days. Mailing in a paper request with ink fingerprint cards is slowest at 2–4 weeks or more.

Processing Time by Method

Method	Typical Turnaround	Cost
FBI-approved Channeler	1–3 business days	~$18–$60
FBI electronic (eDO) with digital prints	3–5 business days	$18
FBI electronic, mail fingerprint card	1–3 weeks	$18
Full paper request by mail	2–4+ weeks	$18

The Two Main Routes

FBI Approved Channelers

Channelers are private companies authorized by the FBI to receive your request, process fingerprints, and return the official summary faster. They charge an added convenience fee but often deliver same-week or next-day results. This is the best choice when you're on a deadline.

Directly Through the FBI

You can submit electronically on the FBI's Electronic Departmental Order (eDO) portal, then either provide digital fingerprints at a participating location or mail in a completed FD-1164 fingerprint card. Direct requests cost $18 and take a bit longer than a Channeler.

Factors That Affect How Long It Takes

• Submission method — digital and Channeler routes beat paper-and-mail every time.
• Fingerprint quality — smudged or incomplete prints get rejected and restart the clock.
• Mailing time — physical fingerprint cards add days on both ends.
• Request volume — processing can slow during peak seasons.
• Apostille or additional certification — if you need the result apostilled for use abroad, add 1–3 weeks for the State Department step.

How to Get It Faster

• Use an FBI-approved Channeler for the quickest official turnaround.
• Submit electronically and provide digital fingerprints instead of mailing a card.
• Get fingerprints taken by a professional (police station or Live Scan provider) to avoid rejection.
• Double-check your application — errors in name, date of birth, or payment cause delays.
• Start early if you need an apostille, since certification for international use adds significant time.

When You Might Need One

People commonly request an FBI Identity History Summary for international employment, visa or immigration applications, adoption, teaching abroad, or professional licensing. Many of these uses also require an apostille from the U.S. Department of State, so plan for that extra step in your timeline. The summary itself has no official expiration, but agencies often require one issued within the last 3–6 months.