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​Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH)

Required by Act 34 of 1985 and Act 114 of 2006, as amended, for all prospective employees of public schools, private schools and their contractors' employees who will work in direct contact with children. Also required for "student teacher candidates". This is one of three required background checks or clearances.

To be provided by the applicant and reviewed by the school (or higher education administrator) prior to the applicant working in a position in which he will have direct contact with children.

Criminal history reports shall be no more than five (5) years old at the time of employment.  See Act 114 of 2006 for further detailed information on PA background check requirements.

Following are procedures for obtaining the PA State Police background clearance.

Fee: $22.00 payable to Commonwealth of Pennsylvania