Live Scan Help Desk: Background Checks & Expunged Records
Q: Will a background check still show my conviction after it’s expunged in California?
A: Yes and no. When your conviction is expunged—technically dismissed—it won’t appear as a conviction. Instead, it will show that the case was dismissed and your plea has been changed to “not guilty.” It does not disappear completely.
Q: So do employers see the case filing or not?
A: Some background checks, especially fingerprint-based ones like Live Scan or DOJ checks, will still reveal that the case existed—but will show it as dismissed. In other words, they may see the charge but not record it as a conviction.
Q: What about private background check companies or online data?
A: Private databases may still show the original conviction information, particularly if it came from outdated court records. That means even after expungement, someone could stumble upon it online.
Q: Are there types of checks that still reveal expunged records?
A: Yes. High-security checks—like those for federal jobs, law enforcement roles, or work involving vulnerable populations—can often still uncover expunged or sealed records, especially through FBI or Level 2 background checks.
Additionally, some fingerprint-based Live Scan reports may still show them if the agencies haven’t updated their records.
Quick Reference Table
| Scenario | What Shows Up After Expungement |
|---|---|
| Live Scan (DOJ) | Case shows as dismissed, no conviction |
| Private background check company | May still display full record |
| FBI / Level 2 checks | Expunged records may still appear |
| Online court or mugshot sites | Often not updated—may still reflect cases |
Final Thoughts
An expungement in California helps you move forward—it changes a conviction to dismissed and reduces its visibility. However, the case may still appear in some records depending on the type of background check. Always check your own DOJ RAP sheet after expungement to see what an employer would see, and gather your dismissal documentation to support yourself if needed.
Downtown Live Scan can guide you through this process and help ensure your background reflects your current status.
Need help reviewing your Live Scan results post-expungement? Contact Downtown Live Scan today—we can walk you through your report and help you move forward with confidence.