Background checks are mandatory for all league coaches, managers and staff in 2023. These checks must go thru SAFE Sports Engine. Pennsylvania is different than other states as you must obtain clearances from Pennsylvania and then upload them to SAFE sports. ALL volunteers must have clearances completed prior to the first team activities for the season. Volunteers will NOT be permitted to help in any way until these clearances have been submitted to SAFE Sports.

The PA state clearances can be obtained at no charge. However, the upload to SAFE Sports (required by PA Cal Ripken and Babe Ruth) costs $25.50. Follow the steps below to submit your clearances.

1. Pennsylvania State Police Response for Criminal Background Check (PSP)
   
   It is easiest to go to the Pennsylvania Access To Criminal History (PATCH) website and apply for the criminal record check online with the Pennsylvania State Police. You will need your social security number.
   
   If you would prefer not to submit your request online, please print out this form (SP4 164A) and mail it directly to the address indicated on it. If you have questions about the Pennsylvania State Police Request for Criminal Record Check form for volunteers, please call: (717) 783-9973 or toll free 1-888-783-7972.
   
   This background check is good for 5 years.


2. Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance
   
   Please go to the PA Department of Pubilc Welfare – Child Welfare Information Solution (CWIS) website to apply online. You will need to create an account and then fill out the application. You will also need a list of everywhere you have lived since 1975 and everyone you’ve lived with. This will give you immediate access to your results or the status of your results if your results cannot be processed immediately.
   
   If you prefer, you can download the application. The directions for filling out the paper form are on the last page of the application.
   
   This clearance is good for 5 years.


3. Federal Disclosure Statement
   
   Download, print. and sign the Federal Disclosure Statement


4. Upload to SAFE Sports
   
   After receiving all required clearances, go to SAFE Sports, create an account (or login if you already have one), and follow the instructions to register and upload your three documents. Coaches - be sure to choose "coach membership".
   
   If it asks you for fingerprints, you can provide this affidavit instead.
   
   You will have to repeat this every 2 years, even if your clearances are still good.


5. Complete the required Sexual Abuse Training
   
   At the end of the SAFE Sports registration, you will be required to complete an online sexual abuse training course.

Contact Jared Houck with any questions.