Criminal Background History Screening Program:
Frequently Asked Questions
 

What are the main advantages in using VOLUNTEER HOUSTON for criminal background screening?
The depth of information available to an agency, and the speed with which the information is received.

Why is VOLUNTEER HOUSTON allowed access to TDPS records?
In 1995, Texas SB 42 authorized volunteer centers* to have Level One access to TDPS records. SB 42 authorizes a check of Texas records only.

How long has VOLUNTEER HOUSTON conducted background checks?
Since 1996.

What is the difference between creating an account on the DPS Web site and using VOLUNTEER HOUSTON to obtain criminal background information?
The State of Texas is only allowed to sell conviction information. Those certified to use CBHS service have access to “anything and everything” DPS has on file.

Who can be screened through VOLUNTEER HOUSTON?
Volunteers or staff of a nonprofit who will be in contact with vulnerable populations, perform any service in a residence, coordinate or refer volunteers, handle money and/or confidential information, or execute administrative responsibilities.

What types of information are available through the CBHS Program?
Arrests, convictions, deferred adjudications, juvenile records, Texas Sex Registry, state and national warrants.

What does the system check?
The Texas Sex Offender Registry, the Computerized Criminal History File and the Name Based File.

Are there any fees?
There is a one-time fee of $75.00, which covers CBHS training, a handbook, program software and handling. Any future training of staff responsible for requesting screening is at no cost to the agency.

How much do you charge per screen?
$5.79 per screen.

Can I pick up the results or do they have to be mailed?
Agency personnel trained in CBHS procedures can pick up the results from the offices of VOLUNTEER HOUSTON. There is a $5.00 charge to cover the cost of certified mailing if an agency wishes to have the results sent by USPS.

How are requests submitted to the VOLUNTEER HOUSTON?
Using a simple software program, the agency sends screening requests to VOLUNTEER HOUSTON where the information is uploaded via secure Web site.

How long does it take to get the results?
Once uploaded, normally less than five minutes.

What if the applicant disputes the findings? Is there an appeals process?
Yes. DPS uses a “soundex” method in background screening. If the applicant disputes the findings, there is a program appeals process, which uses fingerprints to make a positive identification. There is no cost to the applicant or to the agency when an appeal is filed.

How does an agency become certified to participate in the CBHS Program?
The CBHS outreach packet contains a checklist, which each agency must complete to become certified to use the service. Once all requirements are met, it takes approximately 7 workdays to receive approval from TDPS.

How long does CBHS training take?
Approximately 90 minutes.

How can I request a CBHS Outreach Packet?
Contact John Manger, Special Services Coordinator for VOLUNTEER HOUSTON at (713) 964-0217, or e-mail: johnm@volunteerhouston.org.

      * A “volunteer center” is a nonprofit entity that serves as a clearinghouse for information on volunteer opportunities within the geographical area it serves. More specifically, it tracks information about volunteer needs within its local community and uses its available resources to promote that information to the public and connect potential volunteers with volunteer opportunities suitable to their interests, skills, and schedules.
      In some locales, volunteer centers are autonomous nonprofit agencies; in others, they are programs or departments of their local United Way or municipal government. VOLUNTEER HOUSTON is officially recognized as the volunteer center for greater Houston by the State of Texas and the Points of Light Foundation in Washington, D.C.