FCRA Core Certificate

About Our Program
The FCRA Core Certificate Program is intended for anyone who deals with US background checks as part of their job. It provides participants with a core understanding of foundational information related to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) including high level obligations for consumer reporting agencies and end users, consumer reports and obsolete information, and the anatomy of an FCRA lawsuit. Staff at every level within an organization will benefit from this program. By supporting staff participation in the certificate programs, organizations can demonstrate an investment in both people and products and a commitment to compliance throughout their organization. This course is offered as an online option, consisting of five training webinars and an exam. The content and exam focus on a wide array of Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) compliance issues foundational to the screening profession.

Explore Our Certificates
Program includes 5 Training Webinars followed by an exam.
Module 1- What is the Fair Credit Reporting Act?
Module 2 - High Level Obligations for Consumer Reporting Agencies, Resellers, and Furnishers
Module 3 - Obligations for Employers and Other End Users
Module 4 - Anatomy of a Report
Module 5 - Anatomy of a Fair Credit Reporting Act Lawsuit
Exam Details
Upon completion of the webinar series, participants will have access to a multiple-choice exam. This exam must be finished within 60 days of purchasing the program. Participants have two chances to pass the exam, needing a minimum score of 80% to succeed. Those who do not pass the exam on their second attempt must repurchase the program. Upon achieving a passing grade, participants receive a certificate valid for two years and can display the relevant certificate logo.
Renewal Information
The FCRA Core Certificate remains valid for a duration of two years and must be current to apply for renewal. Renewal avenues include either undertaking the renewal examination or accruing credits through participation in PBSA educational events at conferences and webinars. For FCRA Core renewal, you must submit your Professional Development Credits (PDCs) or pass the renewal exam by the end of your two-year certificate period.
  • Renewal via PDCs. Five PDCs are needed to qualify for FCRA Core Certificate renewal. PDCs must be submitted to PBSA by the end of the two-year certificate period. Once the renewal application is complete and has been approved, your next two-year renewal period will begin. Designated PBSA educational sessions and webinars (live and recordings) qualify for PDCs. To receive your tracking form, you must register for the FCRA Core Renewal PDCs.
  • Renewal via exam. Individuals are afforded two chances to successfully pass the renewal exam. Should they not achieve a passing score on their second attempt, repurchasing the program is necessary. A minimum score of 80% is required to pass the exam. Completion of the exam must occur within 60 days of the initial purchase date.
Additional Information
To enroll in this course and exam, individuals must possess a PBSA account for logging in and making purchases. Non-members will be guided through the registration process before accessing the order form. It's important not to purchase the exam for another person using your membership account. If the participant lacks PBSA login credentials, they should contact their company's PBSA billing contact to be added to the company profile and registered for the program. Any inquiries can be directed to certification@thepbsa.org.

Maintaining a current email address with PBSA is the responsibility of the certificate holder to ensure receipt of renewal notices.

Please note that this program does not currently qualify for HRCI credits.

PBSA Member Pricing: $90 USD
Non Member Pricing: $165 USD