Criminal Background Check (CBC)

All new individual (MU4) license applications require completion of the Criminal Background Check section. Existing licensees should complete this section to comply with state specific requirements.

NMLS can use existing fingerprints already on file in NMLS that are less than three years old to process a new Criminal Background Check (CBC) request. If fingerprints on file are older than three years, the individual must be newly fingerprinted.

If NMLS does not have existing prints on file or the prints on file are more than three years old,individuals must schedule their fingerprinting appointment through the NMLS fingerprint vendor within 180 days of submitting the Individual (MU4) Form / CBC request. If new fingerprints are not submitted within 180 days, the background check window expires, and the individual must authorize and pay for a new CBC.

CBC results are only viewable to the authorized state regulators and are not viewable to the individual or posted on NMLS Consumer Access. Failure to select the state you are authorizing to view the CBC before requesting the CBC will result in having to request and pay for another CBC.

A state may require submission of fingerprints through an alternative process for a state background check. View the State Licensing Checklist Compiler to determine specific requirements and process instructions for individual criminal background checks.

All international requests for packets shall be sent in a traceable manner (e.g. overnight delivery) to the applicant’s international address which may be the applicant’s current residential address, (mailing or physical), or the applicant’s current employer address. The applicant shall provide a mailing label to facilitate the transmission of the packet.