California guide
California background-check timing guide
California has broad fair-chance limits for many employers. Default to waiting until after a conditional offer before asking for or acting on criminal-history information.
| Pre-offer posture | wait |
|---|---|
| Conditional-offer guidance | If the state or local rule is restrictive, move criminal-history review until after a conditional offer and document why the screening is job-related. |
| Adverse-action notes | Before taking adverse action based on a consumer report, send the pre-adverse packet, wait a reasonable review period, then send the final adverse-action notice. |
| Local-law caution | Local fair-chance ordinances may be stricter than statewide guidance, especially in larger cities. |
| Role-specific caution | Public and large private employers need careful individualized assessment language. |
Reviewed and sourced
Reviewed 2026-04-18
This tool gives workflow guidance, not legal advice. If the role is regulated or the work location is city-specific, confirm local counsel or agency materials.