What is a pre-employment screening?

Social Security number (SSN) check. Social Security number tracing is used to find every name, date of birth (DOB), and address that is associated with a specific Social Security number. This enables employers to find other fields to search for additional information and records.

Criminal background check. This type of background check scrutinizes the records in a number of local, state, national, and even sometimes international databases.

Public records screenings. This screening checks motor vehicle records, driving history, civil records, workers' compensation records, credit history, and bankruptcy records.

Credential screenings. This type of screening seeks to verify the accuracy of your educational record. It also looks into previous employment, professional certifications or licenses, professional references, and military service records.

Drug screenings. Drug screenings are meant to test for controlled substances. These screenings are usually done through a third-party lab, but can also sometimes be performed in-house, depending on the employer.

Polygraph tests. Lie detector tests might be used in the pre-employment screening process if a company provides security services. This can also apply to organizations that manufacture or distribute controlled substances.

Pre-employment assessment tests. These tests are designed to help evaluate your abilities, skills, and knowledge for a particular role.