The USPS Fingerprinting Process in 2024: What to Expect + FAQs

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

Getting hired by the United States Postal Service involves a lengthy process, including interviews, exams, drug screening, and fingerprinting. If you‘ve received an invitation for fingerprinting, you‘re in the final stages. However, it‘s not over yet.

Here‘s what to expect from the USPS fingerprinting process and background check in 2024, with statistics, data, and tips to help you prepare.

Overview of the Fingerprinting Process

The fingerprinting process typically involves 3 main steps:

  • Booking your fingerprinting appointment: You‘ll receive an email from USPS with a link to schedule fingerprinting. Appointments are available for a set timeframe, usually just 2-3 days.

  • Getting fingerprinted: The appointment takes 5-10 minutes. Your prints are scanned and submitted to the FBI and state agency.

  • Waiting for background check results: This takes 2-6 weeks on average based on location. If you pass, you‘ll likely get a job offer shortly after.

Length of Time to Complete Fingerprinting

The fingerprinting appointment is fast, but the full process can take 6-10 weeks in 2024. Here are the estimated timelines:

  • 2-3 days to book and complete fingerprinting

  • 2-6 weeks to get background check results

  • 1-2 weeks to receive a job offer after passing

According to USPS data from 2020-2022, the average wait time after fingerprinting was 24 days, or just over 3 weeks. However, in larger cities, it can take up to 6 weeks during busy seasons.

Be patient and prepared to wait 1-2 months for the full process.

What Happens at the Fingerprinting Appointment

When you arrive for fingerprinting, be sure to bring your appointment confirmation and a valid photo ID. Here‘s what to expect:

  • Check in and verification of your ID

  • Scan and collection of your fingerprints

  • Overlaying and comparing prints on both hands

  • Digital submission of prints to the FBI and state agency

  • Confirmation that your prints were scanned and submitted properly

The appointment only takes 5-10 minutes. The technician will ensure quality prints are taken before you leave.

Scheduling Your Fingerprinting Appointment

You can‘t just walk in for fingerprinting—you must schedule an appointment. Here are some tips:

  • Check your email frequently after applying so you don‘t miss the invite

  • Respond quickly to book your appointment within the allotted dates

  • You may be required to visit a facility in another city or state

  • Rescheduling is only allowed in emergencies on a case-by-case basis

  • If you don‘t schedule in time, you‘ll have to restart the process

Arrive early to your appointment and allow extra time for parking, check-in, etc. If you miss the appointment, USPS may require you to restart applying.

What Happens After Fingerprinting?

After your prints are submitted, USPS initiates the background check process. Here‘s what goes on behind the scenes:

  • Your fingerprints are run through the FBI criminal database to check for matches

  • Your personal information is used to search federal and state criminal records

  • USPS reviews your full criminal history and any convictions

  • Your background check is reviewed and certified by USPS security staff

  • You are notified by email/mail if any issues are found

On average, 300,000 federal and 200,000 state background checks are run each year for USPS employees. If disqualifying offenses are found, applicants have a chance to dispute the records.

How Long Does it Take to Hear Back?

The waiting period after fingerprinting is unpredictable. On average, expect 2-6 weeks. Here are some reasons it may take longer than 6 weeks:

  • Backlogs due to seasonal volumes of applicants

  • Incomplete or unclear records requiring further review

  • Appeals of disqualifying criminal records

  • Availability of USPS background check staff

I advise being patient for 6-8 weeks before following up. If it goes past 8 weeks with no response, reach out to the USPS recruitment office to check your status.

What Happens If You Fail the Background Check?

If potentially disqualifying records are found, USPS will send an adverse action letter via mail. You‘ll have 30 days to dispute the records through an appeals process.

Offenses older than 5 years or minor crimes like petty theft may get waived, but violent crimes and fraud are often disqualifying.

Conclusion: Next Steps After Fingerprinting

The fingerprinting step means you‘re in the home stretch of getting hired by USPS. While waiting, be patient and don‘t hesitate to follow up if it takes over 6 weeks.

Once you pass the background check, prepare for a conditional job offer pending drug test and medical exam. You‘re almost there!

Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions about what to expect during the USPS fingerprinting and background check process in 2024.

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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