Level 2 Background Checks: How to Protect Your Florida Workforce

May 11, 2025
Level 2 Background Checks: How to Protect Your Florida Workforce
This guide breaks down what a Level 2 background screening is, who needs it, what offenses can disqualify someone, and how Sequenxa makes the online Level 2 background check process fast, secure, and compliant.
Category:Blog

  • Hiring in Florida's regulated sectors like healthcare, education, and elder care comes with high stakes. A simple background check won’t cut it. Employers need the deeper insight offered by a FL Level 2 background check, which includes fingerprinting and national database searches.

What Is a Level 2 Background Screening?

If you’ve ever wondered, “What is a Level 2 background screening?”, the answer lies in its depth and legal backing.

 

The Level 2 background check meaning refers to a thorough investigation used primarily in Florida to screen individuals applying for positions of trust.

But what isa level two background check in practical terms? It’s a statutory requirement under Florida law that helps identify disqualifying offenses before a candidate is cleared for employment or licensure.

The FDLE Level 2 background screening process ensures the screening aligns with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s strict standards, adding another layer of verification.

“Level 2 background checks aren’t just deeper, they’re smarter, enabling organizations to make data-driven hiring decisions.”

Hiring in Florida’s Regulated Industries? Explore Our Services for expert advice.

Key Components of a Level 2 Background Check


A Level 2 criminal background check includes several in-depth components designed to help employers and licensing boards make confident, compliant decisions.

 

The FBI Level 2 background check ensures that candidates with histories outside Florida are also vetted properly.

“The integration of federal and state data makes the Level 2 check an invaluable tool for risk management in hiring.”

Are your job candidates being screened with both FDLE and FBI databases?

FDLE Level 2 Background Screening Process


The FDLE Level 2 background screening is essential for Florida’s public safety.

Here's how it works:

  • Uses fingerprinting to check state (FDLE) and national (FBI) criminal databases

  • Required for roles in healthcare, education, childcare, and public safety

  • Individuals can also request a check on themselves through providers like Sequenxa

  • Ensures legal compliance and sets the standard for regulated professions in Florida


“With FDLE’s infrastructure, Florida has set a benchmark in criminal history vetting for roles that impact public safety.”

Need fast, compliant screening? Explore our plans to handle your Level 2 background checks from start to finish.

Disqualifying Offenses: What Can Disqualify You?


One of the most asked questions is, "What disqualifies you from a Level 2background check?" The answer lies in the type and severity of past criminal offenses.

The Florida Level 2 background check disqualifying offenses include but are not limited to:

  • Sexual offenses and violent crimes

  • Drug trafficking and distribution

  • Financial fraud and identity theft

  • Crimes against children or the elderly


The level 2 background check disqualifying offenses list is outlined by Florida Statutes, and each offense has different timelines for disqualification. It's crucial to understand these implications before applying for positions that require a level two background check Florida.

Employers rely on the integrity of these screenings to ensure compliance, safety, and legal protections.

Sequenxa provides up-to-date guidance to help both employers and individuals navigate the complex criteria surrounding level ii background screening Florida.

“Understanding the disqualifying offenses up front helps applicants prepare, and employers make faster, more informed decisions.”

Need clarity on disqualifying offenses before applying? Read our blogs for expert guidance.

Who Needs a Level II Background Check in Florida?


In Florida, a Level II background check is mandatory for individuals working in roles that directly impact public health and safety.

This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Healthcare workers and caregivers

  • Teachers and educational staff

  • Childcare providers

  • Employees in elder care facilities

    Government contractors handling sensitive data



    For instance, a level 2 background check for healthcare workers is not just best practice, it's a legal requirement.

The level ii background check Florida ensures that those who care for vulnerable populations are vetted through an intensive process.

State regulations also require licensing boards to validate credentials and criminal history through a level 2 background screening Florida before granting professional licenses.

                             

“In high-trust roles, a Level II check isn’t optional. It’s foundational.”

Thinking of working in healthcare, education, or elder care in Florida? Explore Our Blogs to learn about background checks.

 

Level 2 Background Checks for Employers


Employers in Florida turn to the FL Level 2 background check to maintain safe and compliant workplace. From elder care to financial institutions, many industries rely on a level 2 criminal background check to prevent liability and ensure clients are protected.

 

Businesses in Miami,FL and across the state often ask, “What is a Level 2 background screening?” It’s not just about criminal checks, it’s a full vettingprocess including identity, fingerprint verification, and disqualifying offenses.

The Florida Level 2 background check disqualifying offenses list serves as a guide for HR teams during the hiring phase.

Employers cited Level 2 checks as a preferred method for mitigating liability and enhancing workforce trust (SHRM, 2022).

Looking to protect your workforce with smarter hiring practices? Read Our Blogs to learn more.

Getting a Level 2 Background Check Online


Thanks to digital innovation, it’s now easier than ever to complete a level2 background check online.

 

Whether you need a level 2 background check in Miami FL or anywhere else in the state, Sequenxa’s platform ensures fast turnaround and secure processing.

By using a verified online service, applicants can submit their fingerprints digitally, track their progress, and access results in compliance with FDLE level 2background screening standards. The system is optimized for both speed and accuracy.

Over 70% of background checks are now initiated online, with most employers preferring digital submissions for speed and accuracy (NAPBS, 2023).

Ready to simplify your screening process with online tools? Start your digital check with us!

Can I Do a Level 2 Background Check on Myself?

Yes, you can absolutely perform a level 2 background check on yourself, and in many cases, it’s a wise move. Whether you're entering are gulated profession or simply preparing for job interviews, self-screening helps eliminate surprises.

 

In 2023, more than 50,000 individuals in Florida ran their own Level 2 checks (FDLE, 2024).

Thinking of running a self-check to stay prepared? Reach out, we’ll walk you through it.

How Long Does a Level 2 Background Check Take?


The timeline typically ranges from 3 to 5 business days but can vary based on multiple factors.

85% of Level 2background checks are completed within 5 business days, with about 10% delayed due to data issues or manual review (FDLE, 2024).

Want faster results with accurate processing? Contact us to streamline your background check.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is a Level 2 background check  in Florida?

    A Level 2 background check in Florida is a fingerprint-based screening that includes both state and national criminal record checks, often mandated for jobs involving vulnerable populations.

  2. How does Sequenxa help with online Level 2 checks?

    Sequenxa offers a secure, user-friendly portal for level 2 background check online requests, providing faster turnaround and clear  compliance guidance.

  3. Who needs a Level 2 background screening?

    Professions in healthcare, education, childcare, elder care, and public services often require a level ii background screening Florida,  especially when licensing is involved.

  4. Can individuals perform a background check on themselves?

    Yes. Individuals can legally request their own level 2 background check, especially through services like Sequenxa, to ensure their records are accurate and complete.

  5. What are common disqualifying offenses?

    Common level 2 background check disqualifying offenses include violent crimes, abuse, fraud, and theft, especially when related to working with children, the elderly, or other at-risk populations.

Still have questions? Connect with a background screening expert to get the clarity you need.

Protect your team. Comply with confidence.

Level 2 background screenings play a critical role in maintaining safety, compliance, and trust across Florida’s regulated industries. By partnering with Sequenxa, organizations and individuals can navigate this process with confidence, efficiency, and full adherence to state and federal requirements.

Refernces

SHRM. (2022).Background Screening Trends. Retrieved from https://www.shrm.org/hr-today/trends-and-forecasting/research-and-surveys/pages/background-checks.aspx

FDLE. (2024). Level2 Background Checks – Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Retrieved fromhttps://www.fdle.state.fl.us/Background-Checks/Level-2-Background-Checks

National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS). (2023). Annual Industry Survey: Trends in Background Screening. Retrieved from https://thepbsa.org/insights/research

More Briefings