Caregiver background check rules in Maryland

Yes. Maryland requires a criminal background check before a caregiver works with clients. Before hiring, the agency must get a State criminal history records check or a private agency background check under Health-General Title 19, Subtitle 19, plus license or certification verification, a basic health and TB screening, and reference checks.

What does the check include?

What should you confirm with the state?

The regulation lists a $1,000 license fee, but the Office of Health Care Quality's 2026 application says there is no fee to apply; confirm the current fee with OHCQ. A private agency background check can be used instead of the state check. Medical Assistance personal care providers are excluded from this license category.

What other checks should you run?

Agencies that bill Medicaid or Medicare should also check the HHS Office of Inspector General exclusion list before hire and monthly, because payments for services by an excluded person can be recovered. If you use a background screening company, the Fair Credit Reporting Act requires written disclosure and the applicant's authorization first.