How to Get a Criminal Background Check on Yourself

Accessing your own criminal background information is a common step for employment, housing, professional licensing, or personal record-keeping. This guide explains the most reliable methods to obtain a background check in the United States, including fingerprint-based FBI checks, state and local records, and tips for ensuring accuracy. Readers will learn what each option covers, typical costs, timelines, and how to address discrepancies in their records.

Overview Of A Criminal Background Check

A criminal background check compiles information from public records to reveal an individual’s criminal history. Coverage varies by source and purpose: some checks pull nationwide data, while others focus on state or local records. Typical components include felonies, misdemeanors, police reports, court records, and disposition information. It is important to understand the specific requirements of the entity requesting the check, as different employers or agencies may insist on different data sources and verification methods.

Ways To Check Your Own Records

There are multiple legitimate paths to obtain your own background information:

• FBI Identity History Summary (IHS): A nationwide FBI record of incidents in which you were fingerprinted. It is fingerprint-based and requires a background check application via an approved channeler or directly through the FBI, with a background check fee and fingerprint submission.
• State Criminal History Records: Most states maintain central repositories or state police databases containing arrests, charges, and dispositions. These are often accessed through the state police or department of justice, sometimes with fingerprinting or name-based searches.
• County And Local Records: County clerk, superior court, or sheriff offices often provide access to court records and arrest logs. Some jurisdictions offer online portals for civil and criminal case lookups.
• Professional Background Check Providers: Private vendors offer consumer-initiated background checks that consolidate various public sources. These may be useful for employment screening with consumer consent, though they might not capture every state or federal record.
• Public Records Requests: In some cases, individuals can submit formal requests under state public records laws to obtain documents related to their own history.

Fingerprint-Based FBI Identity History Summary

The FBI IHS provides a nationwide view of your criminal history derived from fingerprint submissions. Filing requires a consent-based application, biometric fingerprints, and a fee. The process generally involves:

• Obtaining fingerprints from an approved live-scan or ink-card service
• Submitting fingerprints and the required information to the FBI through an authorized processor
• Receiving a report that lists arrests and dispositions the FBI has on file, including any name variants or aliases
• Understanding that the IHS does not prove guilt; it reflects records in federal and other jurisdictions that reported to the FBI

Typical turnaround ranges from several days to a few weeks, depending on the method of submission and processing times. Note that not all jurisdictions participate in the FBI system, and some records may be incomplete if an agency did not report them.

State And Local Background Checks

State-level checks cover information maintained by state police, departments of justice, and court systems. They are often used for employment, licensing, and housing applications within the state. Key considerations include:

• Some states require fingerprinting for a reliable background check, while others use name-based searches in combination with Social Security number verification
• Discrepancies can arise from name changes, misspellings, or data lags between agencies
• State checks can typically be ordered by the individual for personal review or by employers with appropriate authorization

Public access to state records varies; some states provide online portals, while others require in-person requests or written applications. Processing times can range from a few days to several weeks.

Costs And Timelines

Costs differ by source and method. An FBI Identity History Summary typically involves a fee per request plus fingerprinting costs, and processing may take several days to weeks. State and local background checks often charge a separate fee, with additional costs for obtaining certified copies of court records. Private background check services may bundle multiple data sources but could charge higher fees. It is important to verify fee schedules and estimated timelines with the issuing agency or vendor before initiating a request.

Prepare Your Information And Identity Verification

To prevent delays, gather and verify all necessary information before starting:

• Full legal name, including any aliases or former names
• Date of birth and place of birth
• Social Security number (where allowed for verification)
• Current and previous addresses for a specified period
• Fingerprints (if applying for an FBI IHS or states requiring fingerprinting)
• Photo identification and any required authorization letters from an employer or licensing body

Double-check spelling and variations of names, as records can be filed under different versions. Be prepared to provide additional identifying information if requests require it to locate records accurately.

Common Obstacles And How To Resolve

Several challenges may appear during self-checks, along with practical solutions:

• Incomplete Records: Some jurisdictions do not report certain offenses or have delayed updates. Check multiple sources (state, county, and FBI) to obtain a fuller picture.
• Name Confusion: Use all known variants and provide middle names or initials to reduce mix-ups with other individuals.
• Privacy And Security: Use official portals or certified channels to protect personal data. Avoid unverified third-party sites that claim to offer free or rapid checks.
• Discrepancies: If you identify errors, contact the issuing agency with documentation to request corrections or a formal amendment. Some records may be sealed or expunged under state law; verify eligibility and procedures.

What To Do If You Find Inaccuracies Or Missing Records

If inaccuracies or missing records appear, take these steps:

• Collect supporting documents such as court dispositions, sealing orders, or dismissal paperwork
• Contact the agency that maintains the record to request correction or deletion per state rules
• Submit a formal dispute or correction request with copies of identification and supporting evidence
• Follow up persistently, noting dates of requests and responses
• Consult legal counsel if a critical discrepancy affects employment, licensing, or housing decisions

Important note: Background checks must be conducted with proper authorization when required by employers or licensing bodies. The individual should review the exact scope of the check requested to ensure all relevant data sources are included and to avoid unnecessary delays.