Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS MY ORI, OCA OR VECHS NUMBER? WHERE CAN I FIND IT?

Level 2 Background Checks

There are a number of specific professions that require you to gain special clearance before you can begin working. Among those are doctors, nurses, daycare workers and caretakers of the elderly. Other occupations like real estate agents, car dealers, restauranteurs and security officers also need Level 2 Background checks to start or continue their new jobs. Regardless of which special field you’ve entered, you’ll need a VECHS, ORI and/or OCA number to be able to send your background checks to the right agency. Fingerprint Chick provides a complete range of fingerprinting services for level 2 background checks. Learn more about Level 2 Background Checks Here.

What is Livescan Fingerprinting? Is it the same as Electronic Fingerprinting?

Yes! They are the same process by different names. Fingerprint Chick is an FDLE approved livescan vendor for this type of fingerprinting.

What is an ORI number?

ORI stands for Originating Agency Identifier Number. These numbers tell the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) why you need the background check and to whom to send your results. Your ORI number ensures your fingerprints are sent to the right state department. Typically, an ORI number starts with 2-5 letters followed by numbers to make a 9-digit code.

Typically, the abbreviation of the agency (AHCA, DCF, DOH for the Department of Health) is embedded in the code. For example, the ORI number for a level 2 background check for the Agency of Health Care Administration (AHCA Background checks) is EAHCA020Z. The ORI number for Department of Children and Families, General (DCF General) is EDCFGN10Z. Notice the letter-number format both ORI numbers.

Other ORI numbers will simply start with “FL” followed by 7 numbers, the last of which may be the letter “z.”

Depending on your profession, you may also have to provide an OCA number to your livescan provider in addition to your ORI number.

What is an OCA number?

OCA stands for Originating Agency Case Number. This number is typically used in conjunction with your ORI number to tell FDLE not only why you need the background check and which overseeing state department to send it to, but which specific company or agency should receive access to the final results. Not every company or agency will have an OCA number but every agency/company that requires Level 2 Background checks will have an ORI number. OCA numbers typically start with “111” or “100” and are completely composed of numbers.

What is a VECHS number?

VECHS numbers are specifically for the VECHS program. Typically used by schools and daycares, VECHS numbers send the results directly to the company from FDLE. These numbers always start with an “E” or a “V.” VECHS numbers starting with a “V” are for applicants who will be a volunteer at the company while numbers starting with a “E” are used for employees.

Where Can I Find My ORI, OCA, or VECHS number?

You can usually find your ORI, OCA or VECHS number on the documentation provided by your employer. They may be in your e-mail or on your appointment sheet. When in doubt, the easiest way is to contact your human resources desk to obtain it. They will have it.

If your background check is for AHCA, DCF, the Dept. of Health (DOH), Department of Elderly Affairs (EDOEA), etc. it will go through a system called Clearinghouse. Your employer will likely give you a form like the one to the left. Your ORI number is listed at the top left of this form and your OCA number, if applicable, will be towards the bottom of the page (see image). This document has all the information your fingerprint tech needs to complete your application. Bring this along with your photo ID to your fingerprint appointment.

Don’t worry if you don’t have your ORI number. Fingerprint Chick has a complete list of ORI numbers. OCA and VECHS numbers, on the other hand, are company specific and so you’ll need to bring those in.

Always Double Check Your ORI Number

There are dozens of ORI numbers and hundreds of OCA and VECHS numbers. Often, the state agencies will not share their results if they are sent to the wrong place. To ensure your background checks go to your desired department and company, double-check your VECHS, OCA, or ORI number before giving it to your live scan provider.