Criminal Background Check Results FAQs

Whose responsibility is it to make sure the criminal background results are securely delivered to the Board?

The Virginia State Police (VSP) Central Criminal Records Exchange (CCRE) submit results electronically via secure transmission or by confidential mail directly to the CBC Unit.

If I have a criminal history, what documents am I required to provide?

The burden is on the applicant to provide any documentation that proves or disproves a criminal conviction, or if appropriate, provide any mitigating or aggravating evidence regarding a criminal conviction and proof of completed court ordered requirements.

If have a criminal history that includes an offense that was taken under advisement or deferred for a period of time by a court, should I disclose this as a conviction?

If the offense did not result in a conviction or was dismissed it does not need to be disclosed on your licensure application.

Are there any convictions that are considered a permanent bar to licensure?

Each applicant’s licensure is considered on a case-by-case basis. Virginia law related to physical therapy licensure does not include any permanent bars.

What criminal offenses on my criminal record may interfere with my ability to be licensed?

Guidelines regarding the impact of criminal conviction history on licensure applications in accordance with state law and regulations can be found in Virginia Code Section 54.1-3480.  The Board may refuse to admit a candidate to any examination or refuse to issue a license or certificate to any applicant with certain criminal convictions, including any felony or misdemeanors involving “moral turpitude.” Please also see Board Guidance Document  for more detailed information.

Who interprets the results of the criminal background check?

The CBC Unit staff of the Board receives and interprets CBC results.

Can I obtain a copy of my criminal background check results?

After the CBC Unit receives the results, they may not be disseminated further, even to the applicant in accordance with state/federal laws.

If I disagree with the results of my criminal background check, can I challenge them?

You have an opportunity to challenge the accuracy of the results in accordance with the Applicant's Rights. (See the FBI website and VSP's website for further details.)

Can the same criminal background check be used to satisfy the requirements for both the Board and an employer?

No. The CBC Unit has no authority under the law to disseminate an applicant’s CBC results to another entity.

What does it mean that my application is “non routine” and could slow down or impair my licensure process?

A “non-routine” application is one in which the applicant disclosed or the CBC revealed information on the licensure application that may be grounds for denial under Virginia Code Section 54.1-3480. This information includes criminal conviction history, possible impairment, or disciplinary action taken in other states. This adds time to the licensure application approval process.

Does the Board have the right to deny my application for licensure or otherwise discipline my license to practice based on my criminal history record results?

Each application is considered on a case-by-case basis. Please refer to Guidance Document  for more information.

My application cannot be approved based on the criminal background check, but I do not have any convictions that are cause for licensure denial. Why would this occur?

Each application is considered on a case-by-case basis. Virginia law related to physical therapy licensure does not include any permanent bars to licensure. Please refer to Guidance Document  for more information.

If I do not pass the NPTE and reapply for licensure, do I need to resubmit fingerprints for another criminal background check?

If you reapply for licensure by examination more than one year from the date you previously completed the fingerprinting process for the Board, you are required to have another fingerprint-based criminal background check.