The short answer
In Florida, Level 2 employment screening is a state and national fingerprint-based criminal-history check used for certain positions designated by law, together with consideration of applicable disqualifying offenses. It is not required for every job, and a Level 2 result does not automatically answer every question about your eligibility.
Ask the hiring organization which agency oversees your screening, how fingerprints should be submitted and who can answer questions about the result. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) defines Level 1 and Level 2; requirements depend on the applicable program and role.
What is the difference between Level 1 and Level 2?
FDLE describes Level 1 as a state-only, name-based criminal-history check, while Level 2 involves state and national fingerprint-based checks and consideration of disqualifying offenses. Consult the actual program requirements: the terms Level 1 and Level 2 in this sense are Florida terms, not universal categories used by the FBI or every state.
Do not assume that “Level 2” in another context means the same Florida process. An ordinary employment background report may also include different searches. See what employment background checks show.
What happens during a Florida Level 2 screening?
The employer or responsible agency should give you instructions for the screening that applies to your role. A typical preparation checklist is to:
- Confirm the agency and the specific position for which screening is being requested.
- Ask how to submit fingerprints and which identification or appointment instructions apply.
- Check that your identifying details are accurate and that the recipient and submission channel are legitimate.
- Ask the employer or agency how to check progress, and respond to any specific request for additional information.
For example, the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) describes Level 2 fingerprint-based screening for its regulated health-care context. That does not mean AHCA handles every Florida Level 2 check.
Does a record automatically mean you cannot work?
The outcome depends on the applicable law, offense, position and agency process. Florida law specifies disqualifying offenses and may provide an exemption process in some circumstances. Do not assume that every record disqualifies you, that an exemption is automatic or that an employer can waive a statutory requirement. Ask the responsible agency about the actual result and the process available for your position.
The Florida Department of Children and Families background-screening FAQ discusses screening and exemptions for its context. An exemption is not the same as correcting an inaccurate record or sealing a court record.
What if your record or screening information is wrong?
Ask the screening agency or employer which record or information caused the concern and what correction process applies. If an official criminal-history record is inaccurate, ask the appropriate records agency how to challenge it. If a separate consumer reporting company issued an inaccurate report, you may need to dispute that report with the company as well; see background-check errors.
Keep copies of the information you send and use verified agency channels. Do not post fingerprints, identity documents or criminal records publicly. The exact review and appeal route depends on who conducted the screening and the governing program.
Frequently asked questions
Is every Florida job subject to Level 2 screening?
No. Level 2 is required for certain positions and programs designated by law. Ask the hiring organization which requirement applies to your role.
Is Level 2 only a Florida records search?
No. FDLE describes it as a state and national fingerprint-based check, with consideration of applicable disqualifying offenses.
Does Level 2 always include employment history or a drug test?
Do not assume every additional check is included. The employer or agency may request other screening separately; ask for the scope of your specific process.
Your next step
Confirm the responsible agency, follow its fingerprint instructions and ask how to receive or challenge the result. If there is a record concern, identify the correct agency or reporting company before submitting a correction request.