Apostille of an FDLE background check
We coordinate the apostille of criminal history record checks issued by FDLE (the Florida Department of Law Enforcement), the state-level equivalent to the FBI background check. Free initial review.
Free document review · Florida-based team · FDLE and FBI, both coordinated
Two different background checks, two different authorities
FDLE (the Florida Department of Law Enforcement) is Florida's state repository for criminal history, and it reflects arrests and dispositions on record with the state of Florida. The FBI background check is a federal, nationwide record. Which one you need depends entirely on what the receiving authority abroad is asking for, sometimes it's specifically the state check, sometimes it's the federal one, and sometimes both.
Because FDLE is a Florida state agency, a certified FDLE background check is apostilled by the Florida Secretary of State, the same state authority that apostilles other Florida state documents. The FBI report, by contrast, is a federal document and is authenticated by the U.S. Department of State, not by any state, regardless of where you live. Mixing up the two authorities is a common cause of delay.
What to confirm before requesting the check
Request a certified copy
FDLE offers both certified and non-certified search results. Only the certified version is eligible for apostille.
Confirm state vs. federal with the destination
Ask the receiving authority explicitly whether they need the Florida state check (FDLE), the federal check (FBI), or both, before requesting either one.
FDLE reflects Florida records
An FDLE check reflects Florida's own records. If you've lived or been arrested in other states, those records won't necessarily appear on an FDLE report.
Certified copy, not a photocopy
Florida's apostille authority requires an original certified copy. A photocopy or printout is not eligible.
Three steps for your background check
Send us the destination's requirement
Ideally, the exact instructions from the receiving authority: state check, federal check, or both, and the destination country.
We confirm the correct check and authority
We identify whether you need FDLE, FBI, or both, and which authority will handle the authentication for each.
We coordinate the certified check and apostille
Once we have the certified document, we coordinate the apostille before the correct authority, state or federal, and consular legalization if your destination requires it instead.
Questions about the FDLE background check apostille
Send us the destination's requirement and we'll tell you exactly what's needed.
FDLE vs. FBI: which one do I need apostilled?+
Can Florida apostille an FBI background check?+
Do I need an FDLE or FBI check for a foreign residency application?+
Can I apostille a non-certified FDLE search result?+
I've lived in other states. Will that show up on an FDLE check?+
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Let's start with your document review
Send us the receiving authority's requirement (state, federal, or both) and the destination country. The initial review is free.