FBI BACKGROUND CHECKS
Does an FBI Background Check Need to Be Notarized?
Usually, no. An FBI Identity History Summary is a federal document, so it gets its apostille from the U.S. Department of State, not from a notary. Here's when notarization does come into play, and how to get your FBI check ready to use abroad.
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THE SHORT ANSWER
Usually no notarization
Federal documents are authenticated by the U.S. Department of State.
- Apostille for the 130 Hague Convention countries
- Embassy legalization for other countries
- Notarization only for related documents
- We handle the whole process
Why notarization usually isn't needed
When notarization may come into play
A translation
If the destination country wants your FBI check translated, the translator's certificate may need to be notarized. See Certified Translation.
A related document
An affidavit, a cover letter or an application signed by you may need your signature notarized.
A country's own rules
A few countries or employers ask for additional steps. Check with the recipient before you start.
A copy
A photocopy of your FBI check can't be apostilled by the Department of State. You'll need the original.
How to get your FBI check apostilled
- 1
Request your FBI check
Order your Identity History Summary from the FBI, with fingerprints taken by an approved provider.
- 2
Send it to us
Mail us the original, or we can pick it up. Don't sign, staple or alter it.
- 3
We get the federal apostille
We submit it to the U.S. Department of State, or handle embassy legalization for non-Hague countries.
- 4
Tracked return shipping
We send it back to you, anywhere in the world.
See Federal & FBI Apostille for details on our service.
Frequently asked questions
Can a Massachusetts apostille be used for an FBI check?
No. FBI checks are federal documents, so only the U.S. Department of State can issue the apostille.
My employer abroad says it must be notarized. What do I do?
Ask whether they actually need an apostille. Most "notarize it" requests from abroad mean "make it officially recognized," which for an FBI check is a federal apostille. We're happy to help you check.
Do you need my original FBI check?
Yes. Please don't sign, staple or write on it.
What about a Massachusetts CORI?
A Massachusetts CORI is a state document and gets a Massachusetts apostille. See CORI Apostille.
Need your FBI check apostilled?
Tell us the destination country and your deadline.