Adoption Background Checks

Information for obtaining background checks for adoption

As North Carolina continues to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have learned numerous law enforcement agencies are adapting and/or changing their fingerprint availability, often on a weekly basis.  Due to various federal requirements, DCDEE cannot waive the requirement for fingerprints.  We encourage you to use the resources below to assist.

The following link will allow you to search law enforcement agencies by zip code and/or city and state. You will be able to search law enforcement locations that will fingerprint applicants electronically, and this process is referred to as livescan fingerprinting. If the LEA does not have a livescan device, a card will be printed and handed to the applicant to submit to DCDEE by mail.   

Map Livescan Locations (nbinformation.com)

The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation has provided a resource to advise where they are in terms of processing fingerprints.  You can find that resource, and contact information here.  Thank you to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation for their assistance in providing this information. 

Prospective adoptive parents must have a background check completed by the Criminal Background Check Unit.

Here you can obtain information on how to adopt.  You can also view laws such as NC General Statute Chapter 48 and the Adam Walsh Act.  

Materials needed for NC Adoption

• Adoption Checklist
• DHHS-001 Form (This form must be obtained through the DCDEE Criminal Background Check Unit)
• Electronic Fingerprint Release of Information
  
  OR
  
  ​If you are submitting your prints on a FD-258 Fingerprint Card please use the SBI OCA Code for NC Adoption: DHHSAP0000
  • ​You can obtain fingerprints from an approved agency.

Background Check Unit Staff for NC Adoption

333 Six Forks Road
2201 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699
919-814-6419

[email protected]