Issue 1: A Good Cause Exception
How to obtain a Fingerprint Clearance Card with a criminal history
Understanding Fingerprint Clearance Cards: Do You Need One?
Introduction
Fingerprint clearance cards have become a vital requirement in certain professions and activities since the introduction of a law in 2009. This law established two types of fingerprint clearance cards in Arizona, replacing the previous single type. The new system comprises Level I fingerprint clearance cards, which are more stringent, alongside the standard clearance cards. Here's an overview to help you understand what these cards entail and whether you might need one.
Difference Between Level I and Standard Clearance Cards
The implementation of Level I cards from July 1, 2009, marked a more rigorous process compared to the existing standard clearance cards. Level I cards have stricter criteria and are harder to obtain due to a broader range of criminal charges that could result in denial or suspension. Conversely, the standard cards maintain similarities with the previous clearance card system.
Who Needs a Level I Card?
Several professions and activities mandated by specific state agencies require Level I clearance cards. These include roles in adoption (Department of Economic Security), Board of Fingerprinting members and employees, various child care responsibilities (Department of Health Services), Child Protective Services employees, daycare and foster home providers (Department of Economic Security), specific DES employees, and more. In some cases, individuals with clearance cards issued before July 1, 2009, might still be valid for use instead of a Level I card under certain conditions.
Application Process and Good Cause Exception
For individuals with a criminal history, acquiring or reacquiring a clearance card might involve additional steps through a Good Cause Exception process. To initiate this process, you'll need to apply for a good cause exception. However, eligibility for applying requires having received a denial letter after your application or card revocation.
To apply for a good cause exception (start HERE*)
*in order to apply for a good cause exception you need to have received a denial letter after your application or card was revoked
If you have NOT already applied for a clearance card start HERE.
Documentation Requirements
When applying for a good cause exception, several documents are necessary.
These include:
a copy of the denial or suspension letter from the Department of Public Safety (DPS)
police records for arrests or criminal charges within five years of the DPS denial or suspension date, detailed explanations for each adult arrest or charge (even if not convicted)
at least two reference letters using the provided forms in the application
court documentation for completed sentences related to criminal convictions, disclosures of neglect or abuse allegations involving children or vulnerable adults
information on revoked or suspended professional licenses or certificates
and a detailed statement providing context for your criminal record
For every arrest or criminal charge in your adult life, you will need to submit a detailed explanation that describes what happened. Be sure to submit an explanation for each charge, even if you weren’t convicted, even if the charge wasn’t listed on the DPS letter of denial or suspension, and no matter how long ago the incident occurred.
Notarization Requirement
It's important to note that the good cause exception application must be notarized.
