How Far Does a Background Check Go in Arizona?

A common question people ask us is “How far back can a background check reach?” If you need a background check on someone who may be applying for a job or trying to rent an apartment, it is very important that you understand what will and will not show up in a background check. This article breaks down the timelines for various types of background checks in Arizona, explaining what employers, landlords, and agencies can legally access.

Does Arizona Have a 7-Year Rule for Background Checks?

Arizona does not have a state-mandated 7-year limit on background checks. However, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) at the federal level imposes some restrictions.

The FCRA limits certain background check information to seven years for jobs with a salary of less than $75,000 per year. These limits include:

  • Civil suits and judgments
  • Paid tax liens
  • Accounts placed for collection
  • Arrest records (without conviction)

However, criminal convictions are not subject to the 7-year limit under the FCRA and may appear on background checks indefinitely, unless they are expunged or sealed. In Arizona, that means older criminal records can still surface unless legal action is taken to remove them.

How Far Do Most Background Checks Go in Arizona?

The reach of a background check in Arizona depends on its purpose and the party conducting it. Here’s a breakdown:

Criminal Background Checks

Most criminal background checks go back seven to ten years, but there is no official limit. In many cases, felony convictions remain on a person’s record permanently unless expunged or set aside.

Employment Checks

Employers often review the last seven years of history but may go further, especially in positions involving:

  • Financial responsibility
  • Vulnerable populations (e.g., healthcare, education)
  • Security or law enforcement

Credit Checks

Credit history typically goes back seven to ten years, especially for bankruptcies:

  • Chapter 7 bankruptcy: up to 10 years
  • Chapter 13 bankruptcy: up to 7 years

Housing Applications

Landlords may review criminal and credit histories for up to seven years, but some may conduct more thorough investigations based on local risk assessments or high-demand areas.

Licensing or Government Clearances

These checks may reach your entire adult history, especially for roles involving public trust, national security, or state licenses.

Employment Background Checks in Arizona

Employers in Arizona are allowed to conduct comprehensive background checks that typically cover:

  • Employment history (past 7–10 years)
  • Criminal records (no set limit)
  • Education verification
  • Professional licenses

Some industries may require deeper checks:

  • Healthcare and childcare roles may mandate lifetime criminal checks.
  • Banking or financial services often review full credit reports and civil litigation history.

It’s worth noting that Arizona is a “ban the box” state only for public employers, meaning public employers cannot ask about criminal history on the initial application. However, they can still conduct full background checks later in the hiring process.

Will a DUI Show Up on a Background Check After 10 Years in Arizona?

Yes, a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) will typically appear on a background check in Arizona even after 10 years. DUI convictions are considered criminal offenses and remain on your record indefinitely, unless:

  • The conviction is set aside by the court (Arizona does not offer traditional expungement).
  • A DUI is reclassified or dismissed due to legal action.

Employers and licensing boards, especially in roles involving driving or public safety, are very likely to see old DUI records.

How Far Back Do Background Checks for Firearms Go in Arizona?

Firearm purchases in Arizona go through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), maintained by the FBI. NICS checks have no time limitation and focus on disqualifying offenses, regardless of when they occurred. These include:

  • Felony convictions
  • Domestic violence charges
  • Restraining or protective orders
  • Drug abuse or mental health adjudications

Even if a felony or domestic violence conviction is 20+ years old, it can prevent you from legally purchasing a firearm in Arizona unless your rights have been restored by the courts.

What Is the Furthest a Background Check Can Go?

In Arizona, the maximum lookback period for a background check depends on:

  • The type of check
  • The requesting entity
  • Applicable federal or state laws

Unlimited (Lifetime) Lookbacks

  • Criminal convictions (unless set aside)
  • Federal government jobs or clearances
  • Firearm purchases (NICS)
  • Certain state licenses or certifications

7-10 Year Typical Lookbacks

  • Private employment checks
  • Credit checks
  • Rental history reviews

In practice, many background screening companies only report information for up to 7 or 10 years to reduce legal risks, but this is not a hard limit unless dictated by the FCRA.

Best Background Check Sites vs. Licensed Investigators in Arizona

Many online services claim to provide background checks for a small fee or they may offer a free trial. While convenient, these sites often:

  • Use outdated or incomplete databases
  • Miss county-level or sealed records
  • Misreport expunged or dismissed charges

Advantages of Using a Licensed Arizona Private Investigator:

  • Access to up-to-date, court-verified records
  • Customized checks based on your specific needs (employment, litigation, personal)
  • Compliance with Arizona laws and federal regulations
  • Discreet, ethical handling of sensitive information

Cutty Investigations is a trusted name in Arizona, offering accurate, detailed background checks performed by licensed professionals. Whether for personal or professional purposes, our team ensures you get the full picture while staying compliant with the law.

Final Thoughts: Know What to Expect from a Background Check in the state of Arizona

Background checks in Arizona vary in depth and detail depending on their purpose, but most have the potential to go back much further than seven years. Criminal convictions, DUIs, and disqualifying firearm offenses can stay on your record indefinitely.

While some protections exist under the FCRA, especially for civil matters, employers and agencies can often legally access much of your history. For the most accurate, thorough, and legally compliant checks, working with a licensed Arizona investigator like Cutty Investigations is your best option.

Need a background check in Arizona? Contact Cutty Investigations today to schedule a confidential consultation with our team of professionals.

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