Official USPS Background Check Policy (2022 Guide)

The United States Postal Service (USPS) requires all employees to undergo a criminal background check. This policy is in place to ensure the safety of USPS employees and customers. 

If you are interested in working for the USPS, or if you are a current employee, it is important that you understand the background check process.

In this blog post, we will discuss the USPS background check policy and provide tips on how to prepare for your background check.

What is the USPS Background Check Policy?

All applicants who wish to work for the United States Postal Service (USPS) must undergo a criminal background check. The USPS utilizes both state and federal databases when conducting background checks.

Related: USPS Orientation

In order to pass the background check, applicants must not have any felony convictions on their record. In addition, the USPS will consider any pending charges or convictions, as well as their driving record, especially for jobs that involve the operation of a motor vehicle. Also, the applicant’s criminal record for the last five years, when determining eligibility for employment.

What Kind Of Background Check Does USPS Do?

The USPS conducts two types of criminal background checks: state and federal.

State Background Checks

The state background check is a search of the state’s criminal record database. This check will include any convictions or pending charges in the applicant’s home state. The majority of states provide this information to potential employers through the use of an online database.

Federal Background Checks

The federal background check is a search of the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database. The NCIC is maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This check will include any convictions or pending charges in any state. To obtain this information, the USPS will require the applicant to submit a set of fingerprints.

How Far Does A USPS Background Check Go?

The USPS will conduct a criminal background check for the last five years. This means that the applicant’s record for the past five years will be also checked for any convictions or pending charges.

Does Everyone Who Works for USPS Have to Pass a Background Check?

Yes, all employees of the USPS are required to pass a criminal background check. This includes full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees. In addition, contractors and other individuals who have regular contact with USPS customers or property must also pass a background check.

What if I Have a Pending Charge or Conviction?

If you have a pending charge or conviction, the USPS will consider this when determining your eligibility for employment. However, the final decision rests with the hiring manager.

What is the Process for Obtaining a Background Check?

In order to obtain a background check, you will need to submit a set of fingerprints. The fingerprinting process can be completed at your local post office. Once the fingerprints have been submitted, the USPS will conduct state and federal background checks.

The results of the background check will be sent to the hiring manager. If you pass the background check, you will be notified of your status. If you do not pass the background check, you will be given the opportunity to provide additional information or to appeal the decision.

What Can Cause An Applicant To Fail A Background Check?

There are a number of things that can cause an applicant to fail a USPS background check. The most common reason for failing a background check is having a felony conviction on your record. Other reasons an applicant may fail the check include:

• Having any pending charges
• Having a criminal record for the last five years
• Having a driving record that includes multiple speeding tickets or accidents
• Not being able to pass a drug test
• Failing to disclose information on the application
• Driving permit revoked at least once in five years
• Less than two years of proven driving record

Can you work for USPS with a Criminal Record?

No, all applicants who wish to work for the USPS must have a clean criminal record. A felony conviction will disqualify you from employment with the USPS.

However, The United States Postal Service recognizes that many people with criminal records have demonstrated that they have changed and can now do post office tasks. These candidates are able to compete on their own merits for open positions.

Tips for Passing a USPS Background Check

Here are some tips on how to prepare for a criminal background check:

• Make sure that you have a copy of your criminal record. If you have any convictions or pending charges, be sure to include this information on your job application.
• If you have a criminal record, be prepared to discuss this with the hiring manager.
• Make sure that your driving record is up-to-date and accurate. The USPS will perform a check of your driving history when determining your eligibility for employment.
• Be honest and upfront about your criminal history. The USPS is more likely to hire an applicant who is honest about their background than someone who tries to hide it.

The USPS background check process is designed to ensure that only the most qualified individuals are hired. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of passing the background check and being hired by the USPS.

If you have any questions about the background check process, feel free to contact the USPS Human Resources Department. They will be happy to help you!

Does USPS Drug Test During the Hiring Process?

Yes. USPS does drug test during the hiring process and before orientation.

What disqualifies me from getting hired at USPS?

Any of the following:

• Pending criminal charges.
• A very long criminal conviction record.
• Criminal convictions that are related to mail fraud or check fraud.

Will USPS hire felons? It's unclear if USPS will hire felons. USPS will perform a local criminal records check to determine eligibility for working at the postal service. In addition, USPS will conduct NACI investigations, in special circumstances.

Does USPS hire felons?

The postal service will evaluate the eligibility of each applicant with a criminal conviction record individually. Giving fair evaluation to all employees during the hiring process providing fair suitability determinations for each employee.

Final Thoughts

The USPS background check process is essential for ensuring that only the most qualified individuals are hired. If you have any questions left in your mind about the process, feel free to contact the USPS Human Resources Department.

Also, By following the above tips, you can increase your chances of passing the background check and being hired by the USPS.

Related USPS resources

• Offer Phase EXT
• How late does USPS deliver?
• Delivered to Agent for Final Delivery
• USPS Background Check Policy
• USPS Cover Letter
• USPS Orientation
• USPS Pre-hire List

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