Form 7

Release of Background Check Information

Summary of Requirements

The Release of Background Check Information Form (Form 7) allows us to access your background check information. 

You will need this form if you are:

  • A first-time applicant who has never held a certification or license from the Department.
  • A student teacher applying for a full-time position.
  • An applicant transferring between counties in West Virginia.
  • An applicant licensed prior to 2002 with an expired certificate.

Form 7 must be notarized and submitted with all other application materials. By signing the form, you allow your results to be released to us for official use. 

Full Requirements

Instructions For First-Time Applicants


If you have never completed a background check for licensure by the Department, you will need to complete Form 7 as part of your initial application. Follow the instructions for first-time applicants.

  1. Download the application form.
  2. Fill in the applicant information. If you have an offer for employment or to volunteer, work with your school district to get the necessary signatures.
  3. Sign the form in front of a Notary Public (you must sign in ink).
  4. Submit all supporting documentation to your employing West Virginia school district.  If you are not employed by a West Virginia school district, you may mail your documentation to the Office of Certification. Please mail to the following address:

    West Virginia Department of Education
    Office of Certification
    Building 6, Suite 550
    1900 Kanawha Boulevard, East
    Charleston, WV 25305-0330
  5. You will receive an email with a code and instructions to make your background check appointment. 

Instructions for Student Teachers

If you are a student teacher applying to become a fully certified teacher, you will need to complete Form 7 as part of your application. 

  1. Download the application form.
  2. Fill in the required applicant fields and check the appropriate boxes. If you choose to disclose your results to the county, you will need the signature of the Superintendent in the county where you will be working.
  3. Sign the form in front of a Notary Public (you must sign in ink).
  4. Submit all supporting documentation to the Office of Certification. Your college or university can upload it as part of your application, or have the county you will be working in submit it for you. If your college or university cannot upload the documentation, please mail it to the following address:

    West Virginia Department of Education
    Office of Certification
    Building 6, Suite 550
    1900 Kanawha Boulevard, East
    Charleston, WV 25305-0330

For more detailed instructions, see our Form 7 How-To video.

Application Fee

$0

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