Do Background Checks Show Mugshots?
Short Answer
Sometimes, only if the background-check provider includes mugshots from public law enforcement databases.
Details
Many background checks do not include mugshots and only show charges, convictions, and court records.
Mugshots appear only when they are public records and the reporting service chooses to include them.
Employment-grade background checks often exclude mugshots to avoid bias.
Most employment background checks do not include mugshots, but some screening companies pull from online arrest databases or outdated public records that still contain them. Mugshots are not supposed to be used in hiring decisions, and if a background check includes an old or incorrect arrest photo, especially for a case that was dismissed, sealed, or expunged, you may be able to dispute it and have it removed.
If a mugshot appeared and harmed your job prospects, you may have rights under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).