An ORI number stands for Originating Agency Identifier, which is a unique identifier assigned to an agency that has met the established qualifying criteria for a fingerprint background check. It is a nine-character identifier that identifies the agency requesting the criminal history check and for what purpose. The ORI number ensures that the fingerprints are sent to the right state department and that the results are sent to the correct agency or organization. It is a critical component of a Level 2 Background Check, which is a type of background check that is required for certain professions or licenses. The ORI number lets the FBI and FDLE know which statutes govern the background check, which offenses to look for, and where to send the results once the check is completed. Other agencies may also change your ORI number, so if it does change, it is important that you receive this number directly from the agency changing it to ensure the results go where they need to.