[aspecialtiger]

I am 72 years old, retired from a successful manufacturing background but, now seeking employment in a State Government position.

Concerning the State of Georgia, Department of Labor - they ask for any traffic violations since you were 16 years old. About 25 years ago, I had a DUI - then about 15 years ago, after a business meeting, I had another.

While I, still ashamed of my poor judgement, paid my debt and have. Except for those two instances, have a clean driving record over my entire life, I fear this will be a reason for not hiring me.

What is best? SAy nothing and hope for a check going only back 10 or 15 years - or 'fess up and take it on the chin.

While I can survive without this job, it would make life must more interesting and comfortable. Thanks?

[tickle]

I would come clean with them and get it off your chest. Certainly you don't deserve any stress being 72, and of course after one career under your belt. I must say, it this one doesn't work, there are other fish in the sea and you will know how to handle it better next time.

[jillianleab]

'Fess up. If they find it on your record and you didn't disclose it, you lied, and they don't hire you.

I work for a company that does background checks and DoD Security Clearances on ALL employees - it's better to disclose than not. Beyond that, unless those particular incidents would have some bearing on the position you are applying for, it probably won't even make a difference. So if you are going for a position as a computer programmer, you should be fine; driving instructor? Not so much! :)

[aspecialtiger]

I appreciate your answers and certainly understand. 'fessing up is my first instinct but, I understand most go back 10 years or so on the record and, if so, I'd be opening a can of worms that don't need to be opened.

Is there anyone out there familiar with background checks used for the State of Georgia - how far do they go back with drivng records?

My Daughter, whose record is spotless, works for the State of South Carolina - they went back 7 years -

Thanks for underssnding.

[jillianleab]

It depends on what you are getting - if it's a background check, the standard is 7 years. If it's a security clearance, it's 7 to 10 years, or will go back to age 16, depending on the subject at hand (drug use, for example goes back to age 16). In your original post you said they ask you to list anything from age 16 - that means it is likely they will check that far.

Honestly, I'd put it on there and not worry about it. Given that it was so long ago, it shouldn't make a difference at all. My company has hired people with more on their record than that! :)

[aspecialtiger]

Thanks Jillian! That is well thought out advice and I appreciate it!

[jillianleab]

Glad to help. I hope you still get the job! :)

[Fr_Chuck]

In Georgia DUI is not a traffic offense but a criminal offense and will show up on your criminal background, not your driving record.

Also I don't think that a driving record longer than 10 years is even done. I have never seen one.

[jellybaby]

I am 72 years old, retired from a successful manufacturing background but, now seeking employment in a State Government position.

You can contact state and county offices that compile records for your Georgia background check. One resource to use is the online official state website of Georgia at www.georgia.gov. There are links to the counties and government offices of the state.

The Attorney General’s website is another useful place to find information for your Georgia background check it is on the web at www.law.ga.gov.

You can obtain driving records through the Georgia Department of Driver Services on the web at www.dds.ga.gov.

Some private companies compile the information into a single report to save yourself time by getting your Georgia background check done instantly. To run a report you need to start simply with a name or social security number. You can now screen employees or business partners with ease and accuracy for one nominal fee.