Drunk or intoxicated driving can change your life in many ways. Even if you avoid causing an accident or any injuries, an arrest and conviction can be detrimental to everyday life. Because they are criminal offenses, DUIs appear on background checks in the state of Pennsylvania. Work with a Montgomery County DUI lawyer for experienced representation during your case.

What Shows Up on Background Checks in PA?

A background check is simply a collection of verified information on an individual. It proves that a person is who they claim to be and shows information on their history. The following line items may be made available in a background check.

  • Arrest records
  • Criminal records
  • Credit information
  • Driving records
  • Education history
  • Employment history
  • Military record
  • Licenses in your name

All legal and valid information about a person from their entire life can be documented in a background check. Convictions, including DUIs, will also appear in a background check in PA. DUIs remain on your record for life unless you request expungement. Certain qualifications must be met to get your DUI expunged but it is possible with the help of an attorney.

How Can a DUI on My Background Check Impact My Life?

Unfortunately for Pennsylvania residents with a DUI, there is a stigma associated with having a criminal record. When a background check comes back with any conviction, especially one as serious as a DUI, it can affect several aspects of your life. Consider the following.

  • Employment: Pennsylvania has implemented the Fair Chance Hiring Law which makes it illegal for certain employers to inquire about a criminal record during the application process, given that it does not relate to the functions of the role. Only after giving an applicant a conditional offer can they do a background check or ask about criminal history. Even with this law, employers tend to lean away from applicants with a prior criminal history. A DUI conviction could be cause for concern for an employer, particularly in jobs that require transportation or work with children.
  • Licensing: Additionally, certain careers require licensing and upkeep. Professions such as teachers, doctors, nurses, etc. all require you to report arrests and convictions to a licensing board. Getting a DUI could result in your license to work in these jobs being suspended or revoked.
  • Housing: Similar to the Fair Chance Hiring Law, PA has Fair Chance Housing which is designed to help former convicts secure housing. However, having a criminal record can still cause a landlord to disqualify an applicant or lean in favor of someone else when renting their property.
  • Education: Regardless of age, students applying to college will be asked about their criminal record and undergo background checks. Because many students live on campus, having an arrest for anything to do with drugs or alcohol could hurt your chances of being accepted.

Having a DUI show up on a background check can impact you in various ways. That is why it is so important to obtain the help of a skilled attorney during your case.