What’s the difference between a RAP sheet and a background check?

RAP Sheet

Background Check

Based on official government records

Based on investigation by a private company

Lists every encounter with law enforcement, the courts, and the criminal justice system

Contains only limited criminal history information

Contains criminal history information only

Includes criminal history information as well as other information about you

Generally confidential (generally only law enforcement and courts)

Can be seen by a variety of people (like public and private landlords and employers, banks, etc.) for many reasons — but not everything from your past can be reported.