Can I work for FBI with expunged records?

Asked by: Murray Herman DDS  |  Last update: July 7, 2026
Score: 4.4/5 (11 votes)

Yes, it is possible to work for the FBI with expunged records, but there are significant hurdles and strict disclosure requirements.

What disqualifies you from FBI work?

EMPLOYMENT DISQUALIFIERS The specific elements that automatically disqualify candidates for FBI employment include but are not limited to: • Use of illegal drugs in violation of the FBI Employment Drug Policy • Conviction of a felony • Default on a student loan insured by the U.S. government • Failure of an FBI- ...

Can I get a federal job with an expunged record?

Generally, expunged or sealed records should not show up on a federal background check. But some types of employment, particularly those involving national security, may require disclosure of all interactions with law enforcement, including expunged records.

Who can't work for the FBI?

The FBI is firmly committed to a drug-free workplace. Interested applicants who are currently using illegal drugs, misusing or abusing legal drugs or other substances for illicit purposes at the time of the application process will be found unsuitable for employment.

What kind of background check does the FBI do for employment?

An FBI background check is a thorough review of an individual's identity and criminal history, compiled from federal, state, and local law enforcement databases. This check is often required by employers and government agencies to ensure a candidate's suitability for a job, security clearance, or licensing.

Criminal Record FAQ: Arrested but not Convicted?

44 related questions found

How far back does a FBI background check go?

In states like California, criminal background checks go back seven years. However, some states allow a deeper look into your past if the job pays a higher salary (usually over $75,000). Some government jobs or jobs with access to sensitive information may allow - even require - background checks further.

What is the FBI's most wanted list?

Listing

  • KALPESHKUMAR RASIKBHAI PATEL.
  • MICHAEL LIZASO MARASIGAN.
  • BRANDON JAMES THOMAS.
  • MARY CAROLE MCDONNELL.
  • OLUMIDE ADEBIYI ADEDIRAN.
  • ELAINE ANGENE ESCOE.
  • HORST COSTA JICHA.
  • ROMAN SEMENOV.

How hard is it to get hired by FBI?

How Does the FBI Hire Agents? The FBI accepts fewer than 20% of applicants, making jobs within the bureau highly competitive. Applicants typically begin their candidacy through one of the FBI's various entry programs, all of which are tailored to specific FBI career tracks.

Can you join FBI at 40?

You must be at least 23 years old at the time of your appointment. You must also be younger than 37, unless you qualify for an age waiver available to veterans. See our qualification requirements webpage for more information on what it takes to become a special agent.

How much do FBI workers get paid?

Average Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent yearly pay in Los Angeles is approximately $115,110, which is 6% above the national average.

Will an FBI background check show expunged records?

A Level 2 FBI Background Check

A Level 2 check will even uncover those sealed or expunged records – especially if they involve the mistreatment of children, the elderly, or the disabled.

Can felons work for the FBI?

FBI Eligibility

To be eligible for employment, you must adhere to the following guidelines prior to application consideration: Be a U.S. citizen. Public record must be in good standing with no felony convictions.

Can you join the military with an expunged record?

If you have an expunged criminal record, you can still enlist. Most branches of the military will require a criminal record waiver. When undergoing the process for military enlistment, the military waives some previous criminal offenses.

What makes you fail an FBI background check?

Common Reasons For “Failing” A Background Check

From criminal convictions and driving violations to falsified employment and education credentials, there are several common reasons that can cause a “failed” background check.

Has the CIA hire felons?

CIA Job Requirements. The first thing to know is that working for the CIA requires a person to be a United States citizen and have a relatively clean criminal background.

Can a convicted felon work for the federal government?

People with criminal records are eligible to apply to most federal jobs, however there are some exceptions. You may not be eligible for certain federal jobs because specific statutes or laws prohibit employment depending on the crime committed.

How long is FBI training?

The graduation ceremony at the FBI Academy marks the culmination of 20 weeks of hard work and sacrifice, when new agent trainees become special agents of the FBI.

How old are FBI agents usually?

It is also instructive to look at the data from our recent academy classes. We had five new agent classes that started in 2023. In those classes, on average, more than 50% of the new agents came from a military or law enforcement background, approximately 48% had advanced degrees, and the average age was 29.

Can I retire at 57 with 25 years of federal service?

You are able to retire at age 50 with 20 years of service or at any age if you have 25 years of service. However, the 20 or 25 years have to be special provision years. If you don't have enough special provision-specific time then you'd fall under the traditional FERS retirement rules.

How long is the FBI test?

The Phase I test is a computerized exam that takes approximately three hours to complete, which includes check-in and check-out procedures. Phase I is composed of five timed assessments that measure the critical thinking and reasoning skills required to perform the special agent job.

How old is the youngest FBI agent?

The film is loosely based on the story of Richard Wershe Jr., who in the 1980s became the youngest FBI informant ever at the age of 14. Richard Wershe Jr.

Is it worth it to work for FBI?

The FBI not only invests in your career but also in your personal well-being and your future. As an FBI employee, you'll be able to enjoy paid time off, 12 weeks of paid parental leave, professional development and mentorships, tuition reimbursement opportunities, a secure retirement with pension, and more.

Who is the most wanted man today?

15 Most Wanted Fugitives

  • John Joseph Ruffo. ...
  • John Panaligan. ...
  • Anthony Burroughs. ...
  • Derrell Brown. ...
  • Tamera Williams. ...
  • Leethel White. ...
  • Deshawn Davis. ...
  • Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi. The United States Marshals Service (USMS) is requesting assistance in locating Olalekan Olawusi.

What are the top 5 killers in the US?

Leading Causes of Death

  • Heart disease: 683,491.
  • Cancer: 619,876.
  • Accidents (unintentional injuries): 197,449.
  • Stroke (cerebrovascular diseases): 166,852.
  • Chronic lower respiratory diseases: 145,643.
  • Alzheimer's disease: 116,022.
  • Diabetes: 94,445.
  • Nephritis, nephrotic syndrome, and nephrosis: 55,081.

How does one join the FBI?

Steps Required To Become an FBI Special Agent (SASS Process)

  • Step 1: Application and Screening. ...
  • Step 2: Phase I Test. ...
  • Step 3: Meet and Greet Information Session. ...
  • Step 4: Official Physical Fitness Test (PFT) ...
  • Step 5: Phase II Test. ...
  • Step 6: Conditional Appointment Offer (CAO) ...
  • Step 7: Background Investigation (BI)