Does USPS Do Fingerprinting? The Definitive Guide

Yes, the United States Postal Service (USPS) does indeed perform fingerprinting as part of its hiring process. This is a crucial component of their background checks to ensure the safety and security of the mail system and its employees. Let’s delve deeper into why and how USPS uses fingerprinting.

Why Fingerprinting Matters at USPS

The USPS handles an enormous volume of mail, billions of pieces annually, containing everything from personal letters and sensitive documents to valuable packages. Considering this, the importance of maintaining a trustworthy workforce cannot be overstated. Fingerprinting plays a key role in achieving this goal by:

• Verifying Identity: Fingerprints provide a unique and reliable means of verifying a candidate’s identity, minimizing the risk of identity theft or impersonation.
• Criminal Background Checks: Fingerprints are submitted to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for criminal background checks. This allows USPS to identify individuals with a criminal history that might disqualify them from employment, particularly those related to theft, violence, or drug offenses.
• Security of the Mail System: By weeding out potentially problematic individuals, fingerprinting directly contributes to the security and integrity of the mail system, protecting both the public and USPS employees.
• Maintaining Public Trust: The public expects and deserves a postal service staffed by trustworthy individuals. Rigorous background checks, including fingerprinting, help to maintain that trust.

The Fingerprinting Process: A Step-by-Step Overview

The USPS fingerprinting process is typically straightforward. Here’s what a candidate can expect:

1. Notification: If selected for an interview or offered a conditional job offer, candidates will be notified about the requirement for fingerprinting.
2. Scheduling: USPS usually schedules the fingerprinting appointment for the candidate or provides information on how to schedule it themselves.
3. Location: Fingerprinting is generally conducted at a designated USPS facility or a third-party vendor authorized by USPS.
4. Identification: Candidates must bring valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, to the fingerprinting appointment.
5. Fingerprint Capture: A trained professional will capture the candidate’s fingerprints, typically using electronic fingerprint scanners. This method is cleaner, faster, and more accurate than traditional ink-based fingerprinting.
6. Data Submission: The captured fingerprints are electronically submitted to the FBI for a criminal background check.
7. Background Check Results: The results of the background check are sent directly to USPS.
8. Review and Decision: USPS reviews the background check results and makes a final decision regarding the candidate’s eligibility for employment. A criminal record doesn’t automatically disqualify a candidate, but it is carefully considered in light of the specific job requirements and the nature of the offense.

What Happens After Fingerprinting?

After the fingerprinting process, the data is processed, and results sent to the USPS. It is essential to know what happens afterwards:

Background Check Analysis

USPS thoroughly reviews the background check results. Discrepancies or findings may lead to further investigation, and potentially affect the job offer.

Job Offer Confirmation

If the background check comes back clear, or with satisfactory explanation of any findings, the job offer can proceed.

Continued Employment

For some roles, periodic background checks and fingerprinting may be required to maintain employment. This ongoing review ensures continued compliance with USPS security requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About USPS Fingerprinting

1. What types of USPS positions require fingerprinting?

Virtually all USPS positions require fingerprinting. This includes mail carriers, clerks, mail handlers, supervisors, and management positions. Any role that involves handling mail or accessing USPS facilities generally necessitates a background check with fingerprinting.

2. How long does the USPS fingerprinting process take?

The fingerprinting appointment itself typically takes only 15-30 minutes. However, the time it takes to receive the background check results can vary, usually ranging from a few days to several weeks. Delays can occur due to backlogs at the FBI or complexities in the candidate’s criminal history.

3. What if I have a criminal record? Will I automatically be disqualified?

Not necessarily. USPS considers the nature and severity of the offense, the time elapsed since the offense occurred, and the relevance of the offense to the job for which you’re applying. Minor offenses or offenses that occurred many years ago may not be disqualifying. Providing accurate and complete information during the application process is crucial.

4. Can I request a copy of my fingerprint record from USPS?

No, USPS does not provide copies of the fingerprint record to the applicant. The fingerprint data is submitted directly to the FBI and the results are sent to USPS for employment suitability assessment. You can however request a copy of your criminal history record directly from the FBI.

5. Does USPS use Live Scan fingerprinting?

Yes, USPS primarily uses Live Scan fingerprinting, a digital method of capturing fingerprints. This technology is more accurate and efficient than traditional ink-based fingerprinting.

6. Will my fingerprints be used for any other purpose besides the USPS background check?

No. Your fingerprints will only be used for the purpose of conducting a background check related to your potential employment with the USPS. The data is protected in accordance with privacy regulations.

7. What if I refuse to be fingerprinted?

Refusal to be fingerprinted will likely result in the withdrawal of the job offer. Fingerprinting is a mandatory part of the USPS hiring process for most positions.

8. Are the fingerprinting fees paid by the applicant?

Typically, the USPS covers the costs associated with fingerprinting. Candidates are not usually required to pay for the fingerprinting process as part of the application.

9. What happens if my fingerprints are rejected due to poor quality?

If your fingerprints are rejected due to poor quality (e.g., smudging, incomplete prints), you will be asked to repeat the fingerprinting process. It’s crucial to follow the technician’s instructions carefully to ensure clear and accurate prints.

10. Does USPS share my fingerprint data with other agencies?

Generally, USPS does not share your fingerprint data with other agencies unless required by law. The data is primarily used for internal background checks.

11. Is there any way to expedite the background check process?

Unfortunately, there is usually no way to significantly expedite the background check process. However, ensuring that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and during the fingerprinting appointment can help to minimize potential delays.

12. Who can I contact if I have questions about the USPS fingerprinting process?

You can contact the USPS Human Resources department or the hiring manager responsible for your application. They will be able to provide you with specific information and answer any questions you may have about the process.

Conclusion

Fingerprinting is an integral part of the USPS hiring process, serving as a critical safeguard for the mail system and its employees. By understanding the process and addressing any potential concerns proactively, applicants can navigate this step with confidence and increase their chances of securing a rewarding career with the United States Postal Service. Ensuring the integrity and security of mail delivery remains paramount, and fingerprinting is a key component in achieving this crucial objective.