It is not uncommon for a company to perform a background check on a candidate. This background check usually includes a criminal record check, a credit check, a driver's abstract, and education verification. A background check costs money and affects the budget of a hiring process. If there is a mark on your record, this is the best time to disclose that information. It is valid to be concerned that something in your past may cause the company not to hire you, but not disclosing that at the forefront is disrespectful of their time and money and is a sure way to be passed up. Volunteer anything you think may be of concern and ask how that might affect your chances.
