Notice Regarding Criminal Background Checks

An applicant applying for a professional counselor license by examination or credentials is required by 12 AAC 62.100.(b)(6) or 12 AAC 62.130.(7), respectively to submit an official criminal background check from all states in which an applicant has ever been licensed and from the primary residence state. Please note the following:

• The Board will accept supporting documentation from the records keeper in the relevant jurisdiction.
• Criminal background checks can come directly from the issuing agency to our office.
• Criminal background checks can come from the applicant if the report remains in its original, sealed envelope.
• The preferred method of receiving background checks is via hardcopy mail.
• Criminal background checks will be accepted via e-mail only if it can be verified that the sender e-mail belongs to a government e-mail address or similar authority.
• Some states do not allow distribution of criminal background checks to third parties or will not provide a report to the applicant if the intent is to forward it to a third party. If you have been licensed in a state that does not authorize the release of a criminal record report to a third party, please submit supporting documentation. Click here for an example of supporting documentation.