Is a Background Check the Same as a Criminal Record Check?

In Arizona, employers, landlords, and individuals often rely on screening services to make informed decisions, but confusion often arises between background checks and criminal record checks. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they don’t mean the same thing.

A background check provides an in-depth overview of a person’s history, including criminal records, employment, education, and credit information. A criminal record check, on the other hand, only looks at what law enforcement has on file.

Understanding the difference is essential to ensure you’re ordering the right type of investigation for your needs. At Cutty Investigations, we offer comprehensive background checks in Arizona that comply with all state and federal laws.

What Is a Background Check?

A background check is a detailed screening process designed to verify a person’s identity, reputation, and history across multiple areas. It is not limited to criminal history; instead, it paints a more complete picture of an individual’s background.

Depending on your goals —whether it’s hiring a new employee, screening a tenant, or verifying a potential business partner— background checks can include:

• Criminal history checks: from county, state, and federal databases.
  
• Employment verification: confirmation of past jobs, positions held, and references.
  
• Education verification: checking degrees, schools attended, and credentials.
  
• Credit reports: reviewing financial responsibility (with the subject’s consent).
  
• Identity verification: confirming legal name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

• Professional licenses: validating credentials for regulated professions.
  

Purpose of Background Checks

Background checks help reduce risk and protect people and organizations from fraud, theft, or negligence. Businesses in Arizona — especially in security, healthcare, education, and property management — use them to ensure that employees and tenants are trustworthy and meet safety standards.

Legal Compliance

Employers in Arizona who are conduct background checks must comply with both state privacy laws and federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requirements. This means they must obtain written consent from the person being screened and use the information fairly in hiring or contracting decisions.

What Is a Criminal Record Check?

A criminal record check (also called a criminal history check) is a narrower process focused solely on identifying any past or pending criminal activity. It gathers data directly from law enforcement agencies, court databases, and correctional institutions.

The purpose of this check is to determine whether an individual has been:

• Arrested for a criminal offense

• Charged or convicted of a crime

• Placed on probation or parole

• Incarcerated in a state or federal facility

Types of Criminal Record Checks

There are several levels of criminal record searches:

• County-level checks: show local arrests, misdemeanors, and minor offenses.
  
• Statewide checks: reveal state-recorded criminal activity, often via the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

• Federal checks: cover federal crimes such as fraud, tax evasion, or interstate offenses.
  
• National database searches: provide broad coverage but depend on database accuracy and reporting practices.

Criminal record checks are often used for specific compliance purposes — for example, when hiring for security-sensitive positions, firearm licensing, or immigration verification.

Key Differences Between Background Checks and Criminal Record Checks

Though both provide valuable insight, the difference between a background check and a criminal record check lies in their scope, purpose, and legal use. Let’s break it down clearly.

Scope of Information

• A background check is comprehensive, covering multiple aspects of a person’s history — including education, employment, credit, and identity.
• A criminal record check is limited to law enforcement data and focuses only on crimes and convictions.

Think of it this way:

Every criminal record check can be part of a background check, but not every background check includes a criminal history.

Use Cases

• Background check: Ideal for employers, landlords, or business partnerships where overall character and reliability matter.

• Criminal record check: Used when the primary concern is whether someone has a history of legal violations or convictions.

Who Can Request Each Type

• Employers and landlords can request both types, but must follow FCRA guidelines.
  
• Private individuals may request a background check for personal safety reasons (for example, before hiring a nanny or caregiver).

• Law enforcement agencies can access more detailed criminal data than private entities.
  

Legal Considerations in Arizona

In Arizona, privacy laws restrict unauthorized access to sensitive personal information.

• Employers must notify candidates and obtain consent before conducting any screening.
  
• Arizona residents can request their own criminal history records through the Department of Public Safety (DPS).

• Companies must use licensed investigators or consumer reporting agencies to ensure compliance and accuracy.

Why It Matters for Arizona Residents and Businesses

Arizona’s economy is rapidly growing, with expanding industries in healthcare, construction, hospitality, and real estate. This growth increases the need for trustworthy employees, tenants, and partners.

For businesses, running the right kind of check can mean the difference between hiring a reliable professional and exposing the organization to risk.

For individuals, knowing someone’s history before signing a lease or entering a contract can prevent financial or personal harm.

Cutty Investigations helps Arizona clients choose the right screening method for each scenario — from criminal record checks for security roles to comprehensive background checks for high-level corporate hiring.

What Type of Screening Do I Need?

Choosing between a background check and a criminal record check depends on your specific purpose:

Situation	Recommended Check
Hiring for sensitive roles (security, finance, childcare)	Comprehensive background check
Verifying a tenant or roommate	Basic background check with a criminal record focus
Screening a potential business partner	Full background check, including credit and business verification
Checking someone’s criminal history only	Criminal record check

How Cutty Investigation Can Help

At Cutty Investigations, we offer licensed, discreet, and legally compliant investigative services throughout Arizona. We understand the nuances of Arizona law and help clients make informed, lawful decisions based on accurate data.

Our services include:

• Comprehensive background checks for employment and personal safety.

• Criminal record checks for sensitive positions.

• Corporate due diligence and fraud prevention.

• Identity verification and address tracing.

We use advanced tools and verified databases to deliver accurate results, protecting our clients’ interests while respecting individual privacy rights.

Learn more about our comprehensive background checks in Arizona and how they can safeguard your business or property.

FAQs

Does a background check include a criminal record check?

Yes, most comprehensive background checks include a review of criminal history. However, some employers or agencies may order a criminal record check if they only need that specific information.

Can I run a background check on someone in Arizona?

Yes, but Arizona law requires you to have a legitimate purpose and, in most cases, the individual’s consent. Working with a licensed private investigator ensures compliance with FCRA and state regulations.

What shows up on a criminal record check in Arizona?

Criminal record checks typically include arrests, charges, convictions, probation, and incarceration records. The level of detail depends on the databases searched (county, state, or federal).

How do I find out if someone has a criminal record?

You can request a criminal history report through the Arizona Department of Public Safety or hire a licensed investigation firm to conduct a verified and legally compliant search.

Summary: Background Check vs Criminal Record Check

While both checks help ensure safety and trust, they serve distinct purposes:

• A background check offers an overview of personal, professional, and legal history.

• A criminal record check focuses strictly on identifying past criminal offenses or convictions.
  

For Arizona residents and businesses, understanding these differences ensures the right balance between safety, privacy, and legal compliance.

When accuracy and discretion matter most, trust Cutty Investigations — your local partner for professional background screening and investigative services in Arizona.