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Georgia Background Check Laws: What Employers Need to Know
Georgia largely follows federal FCRA standards, with a few added rules around disclosure language and first offender records, relevant across the state's logistics, film production, and agriculture industries, whether you're hiring in Atlanta, Savannah, or Augusta.
Specific Disclosure Language Required
Disclosure and authorization forms in Georgia must use the term "Criminal Information" rather than "Criminal Records."
First Offender Records
Employers generally can't use a "first offender" conviction in a hiring decision, with exceptions for certain sensitive roles, including banks, schools, day care centers, nursing homes, and employers serving developmentally disabled populations.
Pass-Through Fees for Georgia Records
| Record Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Criminal county search | No pass-through fee listed for county-level searches in this state |
| Criminal statewide (Georgia Crime Information Center) | No public name-based query through GCIC directly; searches go through local law enforcement or an approved vendor (a limited GA Felon Search is available for $15 but isn't comprehensive) |
| Motor vehicle record | $8.00 |
Fees are sourced from 3rd Degree Screening's published fee schedule and are subject to change without notice by the issuing agency.
Common Questions from Georgia Employers
Does Georgia have a Ban-the-Box law for private employers? No. Georgia's Ban-the-Box style rule applies only to state public employers, not private hiring.
Do I need special wording on my Georgia disclosure form? Yes. Georgia forms must refer to "Criminal Information," not "Criminal Records."
Can I consider a first-time offender's conviction in Georgia? Generally no, unless the role falls into one of the state's defined sensitive categories, such as banking, education, or elder and disability care.
This information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and requirements may change and may vary based on specific facts and circumstances. Users should consult their own qualified legal counsel regarding their specific compliance obligations.
