Which agencies are responsible for performing a criminal background check on all license applicants?

The correct answer is grounded in the established processes for ensuring that prospective real estate licensees meet the moral and ethical standards required in the industry. The FBI and the Department of Public Safety work together in conducting comprehensive criminal background checks on all individuals applying for a real estate license in Texas.

The FBI, as a federal agency, provides nationwide criminal background information, which is crucial for determining if an applicant has a history that disqualifies them from receiving a real estate license. The Department of Public Safety, which operates at the state level, complements this by offering additional data and managing the collection and verification of fingerprints. This combination ensures a thorough vetting process to protect public interest and uphold the integrity of the real estate profession.

Other options suggest combinations of agencies that either do not play a role in this process or are limited in scope regarding criminal background checks. The involvement of the Texas Real Estate Commission is indirect since their primary role is managing licensing, not conducting the background checks directly. Meanwhile, local law enforcement agencies may have some role in the criminal justice system but are not typically involved in the background check process for real estate licenses at the state level.