When employers hear “background check,” they often assume there’s a single standard. In reality, there are multiple levels of screening, and understanding the difference between a Level 1 background check and a Level 2 background check is critical for compliance, liability protection, and workforce safety.
Auradon Solutions helps organizations design customized background check packages that meet role-specific requirements, including state-mandated Level 1 and Level 2 checks.
A Level 1 background check is a basic screening that usually includes:
A search of state-level criminal history records
Employment history verification
Education verification
This level is often sufficient for non-sensitive roles where employees are not working with vulnerable populations, handling sensitive data, or managing financial responsibilities.
A Level 2 background check is much more comprehensive. It generally includes:
State and national criminal database searches
FBI fingerprint-based check
Cross-checking against criminal records in multiple jurisdictions
Screening for disqualifying offenses under state law
Level 2 checks are commonly required for roles involving:
Healthcare and direct patient care
Education and childcare
Elderly or vulnerable adult services
Safety-sensitive positions (e.g., transportation, security)
Employers cannot afford to guess which type of screening is required:
State and federal laws mandate Level 2 checks for certain industries.
Conducting only a Level 1 check when a Level 2 is required can expose employers to negligent hiring lawsuits, regulatory penalties, and reputational damage.
Over-screening (requiring a Level 2 when only Level 1 is needed) can slow down hiring and frustrate candidates.
Employers should evaluate:
Industry requirements — Does state law require a Level 2 for your role?
Risk level — Will the employee be working with children, patients, or sensitive information?
Cost vs. liability — Level 2 checks cost more and take longer, but the risk of skipping one is often far greater
Auradon Solutions helps employers navigate the complexity of Level 1 and Level 2 checks by:
Designing role-specific background check packages to avoid both over- and under-screening
Providing FCRA-compliant disclosures and authorizations in English and Spanish
Offering nationwide fingerprinting and occupational health testing through 2,500+ collection sites
Staying ahead of state regulatory updates to ensure compliance at all times
Ready to protect your workforce and your bottom line? Get started with Auradon Solutions now to customize your background screening process.
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