Seven years is the most common lookback on a HireRight check, but the employer chooses the depth. HireRight's FAQ says customers can order seven years, 10 years, or an unlimited lookback. The employer's order sets how far back the search runs.
Criminal records
For criminal searches, the lookback window is the period the employer orders. Seven years is the most common.
Federal law adds a second limit. Under the FCRA, arrests and other non-conviction records older than seven years generally cannot be reported. Convictions can be reported regardless of age under federal law, though several states limit reporting of convictions to seven years.
A dismissed case from eight years ago is usually outside the reportable window. A conviction from the same year may not be, depending on the state.
The $75,000 exception
The seven-year limit on non-conviction records does not apply to jobs that pay $75,000 a year or more. For those roles, older arrest records can be reported.
State limits
Several states set their own limits on how far back convictions can be reported, often seven years. The employer's location and the job's location can both matter, which is why two similar roles can produce different reports.
Employment and education history
Employment and education verifications are not bound by the criminal lookback in the same way. HireRight checks whatever history the employer asks it to verify, usually the jobs and degrees you listed. That history can reach back further than seven years.
A verification of an older job is possible if the employer orders it and the former employer responds. If the source cannot confirm the record, the verification comes back unresolved rather than as a pass.
Motor vehicle records
Motor vehicle record checks commonly cover three to seven years. The exact window depends on the state that holds the record.
How to find out your scope
Ask the employer which searches it ordered, or request a copy of your report from HireRight. The report lists the searches that ran and the counties or sources checked.
If your question is about employment verification specifically, read whether HireRight checks employment history.
For employers
A longer lookback widens the net and slows the check. Order the scope the role needs, and score candidates before the check so the wait does not decide the hire. AI Candidate Evaluation keeps that comparison on record.