How quickly you can request a background check, and receive immediate results, depends on the method you use for conducting the consumer background. Since background check information is now gathered and maintained on large commercial databases, it is possible for anyone to gain quick access to these databases over the Internet. Some of the databases are free. However, the no-cost databases are limited in terms of the information that is available. There are also numerous pay online background check sites that assemble public records gathered from thousands of courthouses and other public entities across the country. The databases gather and sort hundreds of millions of public records.

You can compile basic background reports or more thorough investigative reports. Keep in mind that the more comprehensive the background check, the longer it takes to assemble the records. Consumer investigative reports can be made up of a combination of driving records, education records, vehicle registration, credit reports, criminal records, court records, workers' compensation records, sex offender listings, bankruptcy records, character references, interviews with neighbors, medical records, property records, military records, drug test records, employment records, personal references and state licensing records.

There are other methods of obtaining background check reports, but these options may not provide the reports as quickly as you can retrieve the information yourself. You can outsource the project to a private investigator or a company that specializes in providing third-party reports to individuals and organizations. If you decide to have someone else assemble the consumer investigation report, you may need to provide certain documentation as required by federal and state laws.

For example, you may be required by federal and state law to get a person’s consent before running a background investigation, such as an employee screening. If you miss getting a signature on the consent form, or if the form or employment application is incomplete or inaccurate you can experience a delay in receiving the report.