The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services manages the program through the PA Compass website. All school staff, volunteers, and child welfare workers must complete these checks before employment.
PA Compass consolidates multiple background check requirements into one online process. Users create accounts, submit fingerprints electronically, and pay fees through the portal. The system then shares results with employers and state agencies.
Clearances typically take 7-14 days to process, though expedited options exist for an additional fee. Results remain valid for 60 months (5 years) from issuance date.
| Clearance Type | Purpose | Validity Period |
|---|---|---|
| Criminal History Record Check (CHRC) | State police criminal background check | 90 days |
| FBI Fingerprint Check | Federal criminal background check | 60 months |
| Child Abuse Clearance | State child abuse registry check | 60 months |
Act 153 requires clearances for anyone employed or volunteering in schools, child care facilities, build care programs, and other child-serving organizations. This includes teachers, coaches, bus drivers, volunteers, and even some parents participating in school activities.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services, over 1 million clearances are processed annually through PA Compass.
Many people confuse the PA Compass system with general background checks. Unlike standard employment screenings, these clearances specifically check for:
Another frequent misunderstanding is that clearances are only needed for paid employees. In fact, volunteers who have regular contact with children must also complete the process.
When I helped my sister volunteer at her child's elementary school, we discovered that even occasional volunteers needed clearances. The PA Compass system made the process straightforward, though we had to schedule fingerprint appointments separately. Results came back within 10 days, allowing her to begin volunteering immediately afterward.
One unexpected requirement was that we had to renew our clearances every five years, even if we only volunteered occasionally. This ensures continuous protection for children in the school system.
For more detailed information about the clearance process, including fee schedules and processing times, visit the PA Compass website. The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services also provides complete guidelines on their official site.