Background checks

If we have at least a first name, last name, and date of birth for a US-based user who creates a listing, or is associated with a booking, we may perform a background check on that user. We also may perform background checks on India-based hosts.

How backgrounds checks work and what they entail

1. We submit identifying information (which at a minimum includes first name, last name, and date of birth) to one of our approved background check providers
2. They check the person’s identity against public records or publicly available databases and confirm any applicable background check records associated with that person
3. We make decisions about a person’s ability to use Airbnb based on the severity of and length of time since the criminal offenses

What background checks mean for you

Find out how the results of a background check can impact your stay, service or experience, or your ability to use Airbnb.

Limitations of background checks

Background checks may provide helpful information, but they don’t guarantee that a person won’t break the law in the future.

Why? Because background checks have limitations. Sure, they may help identify past criminal conduct or other red flags where records are available, but not always. Some limitations are:

• There may be gaps in public record searches due to the way certain databases are maintained
• Online databases might only be updated periodically by local governments—which Airbnb doesn’t control or direct

As a result, background checks may not reveal comprehensive or recent criminal record activity. Continue to use your own judgment when making or accepting bookings on Airbnb and follow these sensible safety tips.