Criminal Check
How Can I Check My Criminal Background Online
Start with your state criminal history repository or the FBI identity history summary, then use court indexes for details and learn online limits and how to correct errors.
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Criminal Records
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Check Guide:
Your Starting Point
See my criminal record online and know where to start
Fast Answer
- You can check your criminal background online by starting with your state criminal history repository or the FBI identity history summary.
- Many states let you request results online; some require fingerprints or mailing.
- Use court case-search portals to read charges and outcomes listed on your record.
- If something looks wrong, follow the agency’s correction process after you receive your report.
Best Starting Route
title
state criminal history repository route
best for
Seeing your official statewide arrest and conviction record under your identity.
why this is usually first
It is the primary state source for criminal history, and many states offer online requests or delivery.
when to move on
If you lived in several states or cannot access this online, use the FBI identity history summary and check relevant court indexes.
Official vs Private Sources
| Check Type | Best For | What It Shows | Main Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| state criminal history repository route | Your official statewide criminal record. | Arrests, charges, and conviction dispositions held by the state repository. | Usually excludes out-of-state events; may require fingerprints or ID steps. |
| FBI identity history summary route | A self-check when you have records or residence in multiple states. | Arrest and disposition data reported to federal systems. | Not all local or state events are reported; verify details in courts. |
| court index and case-search route | Reading case dockets, charges, and outcomes. | Case listings, filings, and disposition notes. | Courts are location-specific; you must search in each relevant court. |
| local police records request route | Incident reports or local arrest information. | Police reports and booking details, if releasable. | Not a statewide history; sensitive data may be redacted. |
| commercial background-check site | Finding addresses, aliases, and leads for further checking. | Compiled public data and directory information. | Not an official criminal record and may be incomplete or outdated. |
Access Notes
- There is no single free nationwide criminal database for the public.
- Repository searches match on identifiers; include name variants and your date of birth.
- Online results often exclude sealed, expunged, or juvenile records.
- Fingerprinting may be required for identity verification on some routes.
Simple Online Flow
Request your state record
Use the state criminal history repository to order your personal record and complete any ID or fingerprint steps.
Check court details
Search court indexes named in your results to read charges, filings, and outcomes for each case.
Broaden or correct
If you lived in multiple states, request an FBI identity history summary; then use the agency’s correction process for any errors.
Common Questions
Can I do this entirely online?
Often yes, but some states require fingerprints or mail. Many courts have online indexes, though full documents may need extra steps.
Do I need fingerprints?
The FBI identity history summary requires fingerprints. Some state repositories do as well, depending on their rules.
Will sealed or expunged cases appear?
Public results usually exclude sealed or expunged records. Check your court or repository for correction or update options if needed.