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Background Checks

What to expect during the hiring process​

The City of Phoenix is an employer who believes in second chances. We welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those who face challenges. We believe every person has a unique journey, and we strive to provide a supportive environment where individuals can overcome obstacles and thrive in their careers. At the City of Phoenix, we believe in the power of transformation and are committed to offering opportunities for personal and professional growth, irrespective of one's past experiences.

What to expect:

1.     Disclosure form

At the time of the conditional offer, Human Resources will send a disclosure form for you to provide information on your background for consideration. Candidates are asked to disclose any and all convictions and traffic violations relevant to their past.

Yes, this includes traffic citations because your ability to drive a city vehicle will be determined by the number of points on your driver's license.

2.     Background, DMV and other checks 

A background check via a contracted vendor background check is required for most City positions. For criminal records, the City looks back seven years before the date of the initial job offer or as otherwise required for the position. Other position types, such as police and fire, have processes that include additional checks. The Phoenix Police Department follows Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (AZPOST) Guidelines; learn more about police hiring here.  

We understand that each person's circumstances are different, and we evaluate each case on its merit. We consider the position an individual is being offered and the recency and relevancy of the records, following Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines.

Some positions require DPS fingerprint clearance. These positions work with the elderly, children, and vulnerable populations such as the unsheltered. Fingerprints are sent to the AZ Department of Public Safety and evaluated independently.

The City of Phoenix has many driving positions. If you are in a position that requires you to drive a City vehicle, you may be required to provide your driver's license information. Other driving positions may require a CDL, which is regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Individuals in the FMCSA pool will be subject to regular, random drug testing as required by the federal government. Currently, marijuana use remains prohibited by the Federal Government for medical and recreational purposes. Learn more about the FMCSA. 

• ​Who evaluates background checks?  

Human Resources will evaluate the background results. If any alerts or additional reviews are required, a Background Review Committee will evaluate further.

• Why share all of this with you?

As a candidate, it's important that you have all of the information when making an employment decision.

​We do not recommend quitting your current job until you are “clear" and ready to start.

• ​​Does the City of Phoenix grant second chances?

By hiring individuals from diverse backgrounds and paths, we cultivate a vibrant workplace dedicated to fostering inclusivity and equal opportunity. Each hiring decision contributes to the larger mosaic of our commitment to diversity and our mission to make a positive impact on the community we serve.

There are several opportunities at the City of Phoenix with career pathways that are possible regardless of past experiences.

​For example, if you are 27 and were convicted of misdemeanor shoplifting at 23 and have not had any additional criminal history, a lot can change in four years. We would evaluate this on a case-by-case basis, and you may be eligible for employment with the City depending on which positions you apply for.

The City of Phoenix encourages you to apply to openings you are interested in and qualify for.  ​