You must have a STARS ID Number before applying for a Portable Background Check application. Please verify that your first name, last name, date of birth, and gender matches what is listed on your ID. If your information in MERIT doesn’t match your ID please send a copy of your ID to merit@dcyf.wa.gov. Please follow these instructions to submit a Portable Background Check:
- Login to MERIT.
- Click on the “My Applications” tab.
- Click on the blue link labeled “Portable Background Check”.
- Complete and submit the application.
- Pay the $12 fee.
If you’re required to get your finger prints done, you’ll receive a separate e-mail 3-5 days from when you submitted your application fee. If you do not receive the fingerprint email within this timeframe please contact our Background Check Team at backgroundcheck@dcyf.wa.gov.
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