Only the state of issue can authenticate a background check issued by the local police, sheriff, or state government. The Secretary of State lacks the ability to certify documents issued by another state. If your background check is from the State of Florida, for example, the apostille can only be issued by the State of Florida. If your background check is from Illinois, for example, the apostille can only be issued by the State of Illinois.

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Local Police Station Background Check: If the asking country requests a local police background check, all you need to do is have the local police department create and notarize a letter. When your background check is ready to be picked up, you'll need to arrange for a meeting with a local traveling notary to notarize the Officer's signature on the paperwork. The notary must also utilize the proper notarial language for the state. When you're finished, fill out the order form below.

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Local Sheriff's Department Background Check: If the asking country requests a local Sheriff's Department background check, all you have to do is have a letter written by the local Sheriff's department and notarized. When your background check is ready to be picked up, you'll need to arrange for a meeting with a local traveling notary to notarize the Deputy's signature on the paperwork. The notary must also utilize the proper notarial language for the state. When you're finished, fill out the order form below.

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Background Check by the Department of Justice (DOJ) - Office of the Attorney General: Getting a background check through the Department of Justice in your state can be a little more difficult. If you live in North Carolina, for example, you should contact the North Carolina Department of Justice (DOJ). Step-by-step instructions will be provided by the Attorney General's Office or the local police department in your state. Once complete, fill out the order form below.

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FBI Background Check: Contacting an FBI Approved Channeler is the initial step in receiving your FBI Background Check. An FBI channeler will walk you through the process step by step, including sending you a fingerprint card. After receiving your background check, you can ship this document to our apostille office in Washington, DC for processing. If you are outside of the United States and need an FBI background check, the FBI approved channeler will give you information on how to get a digital copy of your FBI background check. Once complete, fill out the order form below.

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***Please keep in mind that we can only assist you with background checks that originate in or are notarized in the United States or for another country.***