Preemployment Screening and Testing: Washington

Federal law and guidance on this subject should be reviewed together with this section.

Author: Bruce Cross, Perkins Coie LLP

Summary

• Washington limits the use of credit checks for employment purposes. See Credit Checks.
• Certain employers are required to conduct background checks for certain employees. See Mandatory Background Checks.
• A ban the box law restricting criminal history inquiries until a job applicant is deemed otherwise qualified for a position. See Arrests and Convictions.
• Washington's Human Rights Commission has adopted preemployment inquiry restrictions that comply with the Washington Law Against Discrimination. See Preemplyoment Inquiries.
• Washington recognizes claims for negligent hiring and retention. See Negligent Hiring.
• Washington law permits the use of marijuana for recreational purposes, but employers may enforce zero tolerance drug policies. See Drug Use.
• Washington law addresses AIDS testing, genetic testing and polygraph testing. See Preemployment Testing.
• Localities including Seattle and Spokane have requirements pertaining to preemployment screening and testing. See Local Requirements.