Prior to issuing a teaching certificate, authorization, approval or renewal, all state educational personnel are required to undergo a state and federal criminal history record check that includes submitting two fingerprint cards. In making a decision regarding suitability for licensing, the commissioner may rely on information provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation that was taken within the 24-month period prior to a request for criminal history information. All information obtained from a criminal record check is confidential. The expense of the criminal record check must be paid by the applicant.

If necessary to resolve any question of identity, fingerprints may be required of employees of security guard firms to the Maine Commissioner of Public Safety.