Background Check for a Nanny: What to Look For

Hiring a nanny is one of the most consequential decisions a parent makes. You are entrusting someone with your child's safety — often in your own home, for hours at a time, without supervision. A thorough background check is not paranoia. It is basic due diligence.

The Non-Negotiable Checks

At a minimum, every nanny background check should cover these areas:

1. Sex Offender Registry

This is the single most important check. Every state maintains a sex offender registry, and the National Sex Offender Public Website (NSOPW) aggregates data from all 50 states. A CROW report checks this automatically as part of every search.

Do not assume that because someone seems kind or came through a referral, this check is unnecessary. Registered sex offenders can be charming, well-spoken, and come with glowing references from people who do not know their history.

2. Criminal History — Multi-State

A criminal record check should cover every state where the candidate has lived, not just your current state. A nanny who recently moved from another state could have a conviction that would not appear in a local-only search.

Look specifically for:

• Violent crimes — assault, battery, domestic violence
• Crimes against children — abuse, neglect, endangerment
• Drug offenses — especially recent or repeated charges
• Theft or fraud — this person will be in your home with access to your belongings

3. Driving Record

If the nanny will be driving your children, checking their driving record is essential. Multiple DUIs, reckless driving charges, or a suspended license are obvious disqualifiers. Most states allow you to request a driving record through the DMV, or services like CROW can include motor vehicle records.

4. Identity Verification

Confirm that the person is who they say they are. Cross-reference their name, date of birth, Social Security Number (if provided), and address history. Identity fraud in childcare is rare but devastating when it happens.

Beyond the Background Check

Public records are essential, but they are not the whole picture. Supplement your background check with:

• Reference calls — contact at least three previous families. Ask specific questions: How did they handle emergencies? Were they reliable? Why did they leave?
• CPR and First Aid certification — verify that certifications are current and from a recognized provider
• A trial period — start with supervised sessions before leaving the nanny alone with your children
• Social media review — a quick look at public social media profiles can reveal judgment and character

What About Nanny Agencies?

Reputable nanny agencies perform their own background checks, but the depth varies widely. Some run only a basic county criminal check. Others are thorough. Ask the agency exactly what their screening includes, and consider running your own independent check regardless. It is your child — you should not outsource the vetting entirely.

A CROW Clarity Brief covers criminal records, liens, and business filings — everything you need before signing a contract.

The Cost of Not Checking

A comprehensive background check costs less than a dinner out. The cost of not checking — if something goes wrong — is incalculable. Peace of mind is not a luxury when it comes to your children's safety.