Spark Driver Background Check Mistakes and Reasons for Deactivation
Becoming a Spark driver is a great opportunity to earn income on your schedule - but many drivers face unexpected hurdles when their Spark account is deactivated due to issues with the Spark driver background check.
Whether you're applying for the first time or have been on the platform for a while, understanding how the background screening process works and what can go wrong is critical to protecting your ability to work.
What Are the Spark Driver Background Check Requirements?
To ensure safety and trust for its customers, Spark (a Walmart delivery partner) requires all delivery drivers to pass a background check. These checks are usually processed by third-party agencies like Checkr, and occasionally Sterling or First Advantage.
Here’s what’s typically reviewed:
Criminal history (felonies, misdemeanors, arrests, warrants).
Motor vehicle records (MVR), including license status and traffic violations.
Identity verification, including Social Security number validation.
Previous driving-related offenses like DUIs, reckless driving, or suspended licenses.
The Spark driver background check requirements are fairly strict - serious criminal charges or a poor driving history may disqualify you from delivering.
How Long Does a Spark Background Check Take?
A common question among applicants is: how long does the Spark background check take?
Typically, background checks take between 1 to 7 business days, but delays can occur due to:
Incomplete or incorrect information submitted by the applicant
Delays in retrieving court records or DMV data
Issues verifying identity or Social Security number
If you're stuck waiting, you can track your Spark background check status through Checkr’s Candidate Portal, which updates in real time.
Have You Been Deactivated From Your Spark Account?
Contact Us - Our Legal Support Is Free!
Common Background Check Errors That Lead to Deactivation
Unfortunately, many Spark drivers are deactivated or denied approval due to background check mistakes. These can include:
Mistaken Identity or Mixed Files
Checkr and other agencies sometimes match the wrong criminal record to your name — especially if someone with a similar name or birthdate has a criminal history.
Outdated Case Information
Cases that were dismissed, sealed, or resolved may still appear as “pending” or active because the agency hasn’t updated its database.
Incorrect License Status
In some cases, your driver’s license may be flagged as suspended even though it is valid. This often happens when someone moves to a new state and the system fails to update the active license correctly.
Failed SSN Trace
If the agency cannot verify your Social Security number, your background check may not be processed at all, leading to an automatic denial or Spark account deactivation.
What to Do If Your Spark Account Is Deactivated
If your Spark account was deactivated due to a background check error, here’s what you should do:
Review Your Background Report
You are legally entitled to a copy of your background check. Look for discrepancies, outdated cases, or incorrect records.
Don’t Rely on Disputes Alone
While you can file a dispute with the background check agency, this often doesn't fix the root issue, especially when data vendors are involved. Many errors reappear later with other platforms.
If your deactivation is due to a false or inaccurate background check, a background check lawyer can help correct the report and file a legal claim. You may be entitled to compensation for lost income and emotional distress, and you don’t pay any legal fees out of pocket - those are paid by the background check agency if you win.
What If My Spark Background Check Failed?
Request a Copy of Your Background Check.
You are entitled to a free copy of your background report. You can request it from Checkr or find it in your email if Spark sent a pre-adverse action notice.
Review the Report for Errors.
Carefully review each section of your report and identify any errors or discrepancies, such as unrecognized criminal records, misreported information, or other issues.
Dispute the Error.
You can file a dispute directly through Checkr, but results vary. Disputes are not always effective, especially if the source of the error is a third-party data vendor.
Contact an FCRA Attorney.
If your Spark account was deactivated due to a background check mistake, a Fair Credit Reporting Act attorney can help you correct the report and pursue legal compensation for lost income and emotional distress. You may be eligible for statutory damages, and you don’t pay legal fees out of pocket.
