How Do I Get a Copy of My Criminal History: Step-By-Step Guide
You can get a copy of your criminal history by contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency or state repository in your area, typically your local police department, state police, or the FBI. Procedures vary by state or country, but you usually need to submit fingerprints, complete a request form, and pay a processing fee. This documentation can be vital for checking your record’s accuracy, expungement, or employment purposes.
Knowing what's on your record is crucial. Mistakes sometimes appear that can impact job prospects, housing applications, and even travel. Making sure that your criminal record is correct—and knowing exactly what’s on it—puts you in control and lets you address any surprises before others see them.
This article will walk you through each method of how do I get a copy of my criminal history, from local to federal sources. We’ll discuss what documents you need, costs, timelines, and what your results mean. Plus, we’ll compare agency options and answer practical FAQs to make the process hassle-free.
Understanding Criminal History Reports
Types of Criminal History Records
Criminal history records are available at local, state, and federal levels. Local records only include offenses handled by city or county agencies, while state repositories aggregate statewide arrests, charges, and convictions. The FBI keeps a national record, accessible for comprehensive checks or federal purposes.
Which type of record you need depends on its intended use. Employers often request state or FBI-level checks, while personal reviews may start locally. Understanding each database’s scope prevents surprises later.
Local agency records
State repository reports
FBI national criminal history
What Information Is Included
A typical criminal history report lists arrests, charges, case dispositions, sentences, and sometimes sealed or expunged entries. Minor traffic infractions may appear if they resulted in criminal charges.
Personal identification details—name, aliases, date of birth, and fingerprints—ensure records are matched to the right individual. Always check for accuracy to catch identity or clerical errors.
How Do I Get a Copy of My Criminal History: Essential Steps
Requesting Records from Local Law Enforcement
Visit your city or county police department to request your local criminal history. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID, and be prepared for fingerprinting. Most agencies have standardized request forms and charge a modest processing fee. Results are typically provided within a few days to a week.
If you live in a major metropolitan area, check online—many departments now offer online applications and digital fingerprint scheduling. Always get a receipt and keep copies of any correspondence.
- Photo ID required
- Fingerprinting on-site
- Nominal processing fee
- Response in days to a week
Statewide Criminal History Requests
Every U.S. state maintains a central repository—managed by the state police or a bureau of investigation—for criminal history records. Most require fingerprints, either at an agency site or via an authorized vendor such as IdentoGO.
Fees and wait times vary: responses may take several days to several weeks. These reports are comprehensive within the state, making them the foundation for most employment background checks.
- State police or bureau repository
- Identity verification needed
- Third-party fingerprinting locations
- Online application in some states
Federal Options: Obtaining an FBI Criminal Record
When to Request an FBI Background Check
If you need a complete national record—for immigration, federal employment, or international visa processes—request your criminal record from the FBI. The FBI’s Identity History Summary covers offenses reported from all states and federal jurisdictions.
Some employers, government agencies, and foreign embassies require this comprehensive history rather than state-specific records. Start this process early, as results can take weeks.
For more on this, see our related guide: Where to Get a Criminal Background Check: Your Complete Guide to Sources and Process.
FBI Request Process Explained
Submit a fingerprint card, complete the official application (available on the FBI’s website), and pay a processing fee (usually $18). You can mail materials or use an FBI-approved channeler for faster electronic processing. Expect results by mail or secure email.
Review the Identity History Summary for outdated, inaccurate, or sealed entries. The FBI provides instruction for requesting corrections if needed.
- FBI application form
- Fingerprint card required
- Fee (usually $18)
- Mail or use approved channeler
Online Third-Party Services
Benefits and Risks of Private Record Providers
Numerous private companies advertise quick background checks online. These platforms can sometimes help you obtain a background check on yourself faster than government agencies, but they may only aggregate public records and miss expunged or sealed data.
Be cautious—accuracy varies widely, and not all are FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Act) compliant. For official purposes, use governmental sources whenever possible.
- Convenience and speed
- Not always comprehensive
- Potential data inaccuracies
When Online Services Make Sense
Online services are best suited for informal personal checks—such as curiosity, tenant screening, or non-formal job applications. They’re not recognized for federal or some state uses.
Always review providers’ privacy policies and confirm that you’re receiving up-to-date, legal information about yourself.
Interpreting and Correcting Your Record
Understanding Your Results
Once you receive your criminal history report, review every entry line by line. Confirm dates, charges, and dispositions against your recollection or personal documents. Pay special attention to entries marked as dismissed, sealed, or expunged.
If you detect unfamiliar entries or errors—such as mistaken identity or clerical mistakes—this is the best time to address them before others rely on incorrect data.
Correcting Inaccurate Records
Contact the agency that issued your report to dispute inaccuracies. Many provide forms for corrections, but you may need to submit legal documentation proving an error. Procedures for correction or expungement requests are often posted online.
Expect the correction process to take weeks or even months. Persistence and accurate documentation are key in clearing up your record.
- Gather supporting paperwork
- Submit correction request
- Follow up persistently
Special Circumstances and Common Pitfalls
Juvenile, Expunged, and Sealed Records
Not all offenses stay visible forever. Expunged or sealed records should not generally appear on official reports, but errors sometimes occur. Juvenile records may remain confidential or become accessible depending on the state’s laws.
If an expunged offense appears, request its removal with court documentation. Stay informed about your state’s record retention policies to avoid unwanted disclosures.
- Expungement/removal request procedures
- Know state-specific juvenile rules
For the most accurate federal-level record and fingerprint instructions, consider consulting the official FBI Identity History Summary Checks resource. FBI Identity History Summary Checks.
Avoiding Mistakes in the Request Process
Incomplete forms, mismatched fingerprints, or lack of payment are frequent reasons for delays and denials. Verify all identification details before submitting requests. Keep detailed records of every step you take.
If deadlines are tight (for jobs, travel, housing), check agency processing times in advance and look for expedited options if available.
- Check agency instructions
- Bring the right documents
- Monitor response timelines
Criminal History Record Source Comparison
Below is a comparison of common sources for obtaining your criminal history, highlighting cost, coverage, and turnaround time.
| Record Source | Jurisdiction Covered | Fee Range | Time to Receive | Most Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Local Police Department | City/County Only | $5-$20 | 2–7 days | Checking recent local offenses |
| State Repository | Statewide | $10-$50 | 1–3 weeks | General employment, in-state needs |
| FBI (Federal) | Nationwide | $18 | 2–8 weeks | Immigration, federal jobs, visas |
| Online Third-Party | Varies/Public Records | $30-$100 | Minutes–24 hrs | Informal personal checks |
| Legal Aid Clinic | Assists all | Usually free | Varies | Guidance, complex records |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my criminal history for free?
Some agencies offer free copies for individuals, but most charge a processing fee. Legal aid organizations occasionally provide free help for qualifying applicants. Always check local programs.
Will expunged or sealed records appear on my report?
Properly expunged or sealed records should not appear in most official reports. However, errors sometimes occur, especially in commercial databases. Always review and dispute inaccurate disclosures.
How long does it take to get my criminal history?
Processing times vary: local reports may take just a few days, while state and federal checks can require several weeks. Online third-party checks are fastest but may lack completeness.
What do I do if my criminal record has mistakes?
Contact the issuing agency immediately to dispute errors. Provide documentation supporting your claim, and follow their correction procedure. Corrections can take time, so start promptly.
Is checking your own background the same as what employers see?
Employers usually use official state or federal repositories, so obtaining a background check on yourself from those sources provides the closest match. Online services are less reliable for this purpose.
Key Takeaways
- Request your criminal history from local, state, or federal agencies for accuracy.
- Fingerprints and a valid ID are almost always required.
- Review your results thoroughly for any mistakes or outdated entries.
- Use official channels for critical background checks; third-party sites suit informal checks.
Conclusion
Navigating the process of how do I get a copy of my criminal history begins with identifying the right level of record—local, state, or federal—corresponding to your needs. The procedure generally requires official identification, fingerprints, and a bit of patience for processing. Ensuring accuracy and confidentiality should always be your priority, no matter which method you choose. The more you understand the steps and possible pitfalls, the more control you’ll have over your personal information.
If you're seeking a quick overview for personal peace of mind or an informal purpose, online third-party platforms may suffice, but remember their limitations and potential inaccuracies. For official uses—such as employment, licensing, or immigration—always obtain your record from the appropriate law enforcement agency or the FBI. If you suspect errors or need to address old records, engage with legal aid or state correction processes. Each source in the comparison table offers distinct advantages; choose based on coverage, cost, and timeliness.
Take the next step by identifying your record’s intended use and visiting your local law enforcement or state agency’s website. Gather your personal identification documents, set aside time for fingerprinting if needed, and follow the instructions carefully. Staying proactive ensures your criminal history remains accurate, private, and in your control—eliminating surprises that could impact your future opportunities.
