Will a Warrant Show Up on a Background Check?

When someone applies for a job, a loan, or even housing, background checks are common. But many people ask — will a warrant show up on a background check? The short answer is yes, in many cases it can. But it depends on the type of background check and the type of warrant.

What Is a Warrant?

A warrant is a legal document issued by a judge or court that gives law enforcement the right to take some type of action. This action could be:

• Arresting someone
• Searching a place
• Seizing property

There are different types of warrants, and each can have a different impact on your background check.

Why Do Warrants Matter in Background Checks?

Warrants matter because they reflect legal activity. If someone has an active warrant, it means they’re still involved in an unresolved legal situation. This could raise a red flag for employers, landlords, or lenders. That’s why background check companies often search for this information.

If a warrant appears, it might make the person seem like a risk — even if they haven’t been arrested or found guilty. That’s why it’s important to know what kind of warrants may show up.

Which Warrants Show Up?

Here’s a quick comparison:

Warrant Type	Usually Shows on Background Check?
Arrest Warrant	Yes
Bench Warrant	Yes
Search Warrant	Sometimes
Civil Warrant	Maybe
Federal Warrant	Yes

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Types of Background Checks

Not all background checks are the same. Some go deeper than others. Let’s look at a few common types:

Basic Employment Check

This check usually verifies a person’s identity, criminal history, and past jobs. If there is a serious or active warrant, it may show up.

Criminal Background Check

This check is more detailed and is often used by law enforcement or for sensitive jobs. Active warrants are very likely to appear in this check.

FBI Background Check

This is one of the most in-depth checks and includes fingerprint records and federal data. All types of warrants — even from years ago — may show up here.

Tenant Screening Check

Landlords use this to decide if they should rent to someone. They may see some warrants, especially if they relate to past evictions or court appearances.

Credit Check

This is used by banks and lenders. It won’t show criminal warrants, but civil warrants tied to unpaid debts could show up.

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Why Some Warrants May Not Appear

Warrants may not appear on a background check for several reasons:

• Jurisdiction: Some counties or states don’t report warrant information regularly.
• Database Delay: If the warrant was recently issued, it may not be in the database yet.
• Private Check: Some background checks only look at limited sources.
• Resolved Warrant: If the warrant has already been handled and closed, it may not show.

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Can Warrants Affect Your Life?

Yes, they can. Having a warrant on your record — even for something small — can cause issues.

Job Applications

Employers might deny you a job if they see a warrant. They may view it as a sign of irresponsibility or potential legal trouble.

Housing

Landlords often reject applicants with active legal issues. They want tenants who are stable and reliable.

Travel

You might be stopped at the airport or border if there is an active warrant. Some countries may refuse to let you enter.

Loans

Banks and lenders might consider a person with a warrant as a risk, especially if it’s linked to unpaid debts or fraud.

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Can You Clear a Warrant?

Yes, but you have to take action.

If you know you have a warrant, the best thing to do is talk to a lawyer. They can help you contact the court, attend a hearing, and clear the warrant legally. Sometimes, just paying a fine or appearing in court is enough to resolve it.

Once it’s resolved, you can ask the court about sealing or expunging the record. That way, it won’t show up on future background checks.

What to Do If You Find Out You Have a Warrant

If you discover that there’s a warrant in your name, don’t panic. But don’t ignore it either.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Stay Calm: Many warrants are issued for minor issues like unpaid fines or missed court dates.
2. Consult a Lawyer: Get legal advice so you know your rights.
3. Contact the Court: Ask what the warrant is for and how to clear it.
4. Resolve It Quickly: The sooner it’s handled, the better.
5. Get Proof of Resolution: Ask for a written document that shows the case is closed.

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Conclusion

So, will a warrant show up on a background check? Most likely — yes, especially if it’s an active warrant. Arrest warrants and bench warrants are the most likely to appear. But it also depends on the type of background check and where you live.

Warrants can affect your ability to get a job, rent a house, travel, or even open a bank account. But if you handle them properly, you can move forward without long-term damage.

The key is to know your status, act fast, and get legal help if needed.

Also Read:

• Will a Dismissed Misdemeanor Appear on a Background Check?
• How Long Does a Background Check Take?
• How Long Does a Pre-Employment Background Check Take?
• Do Background Checks Show Employment History?
• How Much Does a Background Check Cost?

Frequently Asked Questions