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Oregon law requires every unlicensed applicant to submit fingerprints and criminal offender information.
BACKGROUND CHECK APPLICATION. The first step in the licensing process is submission of the Background Check Application, one completed fingerprint card, and the $40 processing fee to the Agency. The form is located in Appendix 1 of the Agency´s "Licensing and Examination Information" booklet, which can be obtained by calling (503)378-4170, select 2 from menu. The background check is required for any person who applies for an Oregon license for the first time or who must requalify for a license because of an Oregon license that has been expired for more than one year. Photocopies or fingerprints submitted to another agency or state for licensing do not meet the Agency requirement.
The Background Check form provides the Agency with the necessary information to begin the background check. It is important that each question is read carefully before answering, and all required documentation is provided with the application. The Agency will contact an applicant if more information is necessary. A confirmation letter will be sent when the Background Check form is received. The letter will include a permanent personal identification number which should be used in all correspondence with the Agency.
The background check takes an average of two to three months. Applicants are urged to submit their background checks at their earliest opportunity; e.g., upon enrolling in real estate courses. Keep in mind, however, that once a background check clearance is issued by the Real Estate Agency, it is valid for only one year. If an applicant does not apply for a license within that time, they need to complete the background check again.
FINGERPRINT CARDS. All fingerprint cards are processed
through the Oregon State Police (OSP) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Fingerprints must be submitted on form FD-258; cards can be obtained from the Agency or local law enforcement offices. Do not send cards directly to the FBI or OSP.
Fingerprint cards must be completed properly, with all of the identification information filled out. The card must be signed by both the applicant and the person who takes the prints. The prints themselves must be of a quality meeting FBI standards. Detailed instructions are provided in Appendix 2 of the Agency´s "Licensing and Examination Information" booklet, which can be obtained by calling (503)378-4170, select 2 from menu.
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If the instructions are not followed, the cards may be rejected by the Agency, OSP, or FBI. Rejected cards are sent back to the applicant with new cards which must be resubmitted. This will delay the application process.
DISCLOSURE. The law does not list specific offenses which would prevent a person from receiving a license. A criminal history is not always grounds for denial of a license; however, failure to disclose criminal, civil and administrative proceedings is grounds for denial. Therefore, a complete history of convictions, as well as any open or pending investigations or court proceedings, must be provided on the Background Check
Application form. Along with other felonies and misdemeanors, major traffic violations such as DUI, reckless driving, fleeing from or attempting to elude a police officer, and driving while suspended must be disclosed.
Applicants must also disclose investigations, sanctions, hearings or other disciplinary actions by other agencies. The Agency accesses a nationwide data bank containing license disciplinary actions from other states, and applicant names are processed by the Agency through this system.
Information about criminal and disciplinary actions will appear on the reports received from other agencies. If an applicant does not fully disclose information or provide the required documentation, a license may be denied.
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