On average a background check done by a company can take anywhere from practically instantaneously to 5 business days depending on the depth and variety of the check. Usually though, it takes between 48-72 hours. If it’s for a government position that check can take up to a few months to complete. Also, once a company has run a background check on you, it’s your right to obtain a copy of the report for free, if you desire. You can ask the company you applied with or the company that did the check for a copy and they can give it to you free of charge.