1. PURPOSE

This regulation outlines the fingerprinting responsibilities and practices of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

2. BACKGROUND

Executive Order 10450, Security Requirements for Government Employment, requires that all Federal employees be fingerprinted.

In addition, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) guidance and Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 201-1 require that departments and agencies initiate a background investigation (National Agency Check and Inquiries (NACI) or at least equivalent) and ensure the FBI fingerprint check is completed before issuing an identity credential.

Initial applicant suitability screening at USDA and related hiring processes are conducted by Human Resources Offices, or delegated Personnel Security Offices, across each Mission Area. In accordance with Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), 5 CFR Part 731, Suitability, investigations should be initiated before appointment or, at most, within 14 calendar days of placement in the position. Agencies should begin screening, to include the fingerprinting process, as soon as a person accepts a tentative offer of employment.