Inviting a nanny into your home is not a small decision to make. It means trusting them with your children, your routines, and often your most personal spaces. It can fundamentally change the dynamic of your home. That’s why background checks are one of the most critical steps in the hiring process. While an interview may reveal bits about the nanny’s background and how they present (think warmth, experience, and professionalism), only a thorough background check can confirm that your candidate is a safe, qualified, and trustworthy choice.

We hear it from families all the time: what exactly should a background check include? Is TrustLine enough? And are there additional screenings worth including? Let’s break it all down so you can make an informed decision when deciding on background checks for your nanny.

1) Why Background Checks for Nannies Matter

Unlike other jobs, being a nanny means working directly with children in a private home. This unique level of responsibility and intimacy makes background checks not just recommended, but essential. Thorough screenings help:

• Verify a nanny’s identity and right to work.
• Confirm a safe driving history.
• Uncover criminal convictions that may not appear in basic checks.
• Provide peace of mind by ensuring no history of violent or unsafe behavior.

Ultimately, background checks aren’t about suspicion. They’re about protecting your children and creating a secure foundation for your working relationship. They’re an easy way to ensure your caregiver is a good fit for your family’s home.

2) TrustLine: California’s Registry for Child Care Providers

If you’re hiring in California, you’ve likely heard of TrustLine, the state’s official caregiver registry. TrustLine is unique because it:

• Requires fingerprint-based checks through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the FBI.
• Screens for criminal convictions, including felonies and serious misdemeanors.
• Checks the California Child Abuse Central Index.

While TrustLine is an excellent starting point, it doesn’t cover everything. For example, it won’t provide a detailed driving history or capture out-of-state offenses. That’s why it’s wise to combine TrustLine with additional screenings for a more complete picture.

3) Additional Recommended Background Checks for Nannies

When hiring a nanny, thorough due diligence is paramount. To fully safeguard your family, consider these additional screenings beyond TrustLine:

1. Motor Vehicle Report (MVR). We recommend this regardless of whether or not your nanny will drive your children regularly. Even if they don’t drive your kids now, there is a chance that will change with your needs or that emergencies will arise that require transportation. This report highlights accidents, DUIs, moving violations, and license status.
2. Sex Offender Registry Search. Ensure your candidate does not appear in national or state sex offender registries.
3. National Criminal Database Search. A broad sweep that captures criminal history across multiple jurisdictions.
4. County Criminal Records Search. The most accurate source for convictions, since many cases are only recorded at the county level.
5. Federal Criminal Records Search. Identifies convictions for federal crimes, such as fraud or crimes that cross state lines.
6. Employment and Reference Verification. Confirms your nanny’s previous experience, skills, and reliability.

Together, these checks create a layered approach that leaves fewer blind spots.

4) DIY Checks vs. Professional Screening

We get it—it can be tempting to do some Googling and call it a day. But a quick Google search won’t uncover what a professional background check will. DIY checks are often incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. By contrast, working with an accredited provider ensures compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and gives you confidence in the results.

5) How Agencies Like Westside Nannies Help

At Westside Nannies, we take screening seriously. Ensuring we are connecting families with trustworthy, reliable candidates is of the utmost importance to us. Our background check process includes:

• Fingerprint-based TrustLine registration (for California families).
• Motor vehicle report checks when driving is part of the role.
• National, county, and federal criminal record searches.
• Sex offender registry searches.
• Reference and employment history verification.

By partnering with vetted providers, we give families a comprehensive report before placement, so you can make hiring decisions with peace of mind.

6) Tips for Families

• Never skip it: Due diligence is non-negotiable when hiring an in-home caregiver. Even if a nanny comes highly recommended, always run a background check.
• Ask upfront: Be transparent with candidates that background checks are part of your process, and ask them if they are comfortable with this.
• Update periodically: For long-term roles, consider re-checks every year or two.
• Work with professionals: Agencies like Westside Nannies and accredited providers ensure checks are accurate and legally compliant.

When it comes to your children’s safety, cutting corners is never worth the risk. Background checks for nannies should go beyond the basics to include TrustLine (if you’re in California) and additional screenings such as driving records, sex offender registries, and county or federal criminal searches. By working with a professional agency or screening provider, you’re creating a foundation of trust and security for your family.