You can check your own criminal record through official state databases, federal repositories like the FBI's National Crime Information Center, or third-party background check services. These sources provide access to arrest records, convictions, and sometimes pending charges, depending on jurisdiction and data availability.
Public criminal records are maintained by law enforcement and court systems. Access varies by state, but most allow individuals to search their own records via online portals. Some states require identity verification, such as a government-issued ID number or fingerprint submission. Federal records, including those held by the FBI, are available through the Identity History Summary (IHS), which provides a detailed report of arrests and convictions nationwide.
While many people assume all criminal history is publicly searchable, this is not true. Records may be sealed, expunged, or restricted due to privacy laws. For example, under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), certain juvenile records and dismissed cases are not included in standard background checks. Always verify the source's legitimacy to avoid scams or inaccurate data.
Criminal records are created at multiple levels: local police departments, county courts, state agencies, and federal institutions. When someone is arrested, the arresting agency files a report. If charges are filed and a conviction occurs, the court enters the case into a public database. This creates a permanent record unless legally sealed or expunged.
Each state manages its own database. California's Department of Justice maintains the California Criminal History Repository, while New York uses the Statewide Automated Fingerprint Identification System (SAFIS). These systems allow authorized users to run searches based on name, date of birth, and sometimes fingerprints. Not all states offer online access-some require in-person visits or mail-in requests.
The FBI's National Crime Information Center (NCIC) stores federal and state-level criminal data. Individuals can request an Identity History Summary (IHS) from the FBI via Form FD-258. The process takes 10-15 business days and costs $16. The report includes arrests, convictions, and warrants, but excludes sealed or expunged records. According to the FBI's website, "The IHS is not a complete list of all criminal activity."
Several free methods exist, though they have limitations. Many state websites offer basic search functions using name and date of birth. For example, the Illinois State Police's Public Records Search allows users to look up arrests and convictions with no fee. However, these tools often lack details like case numbers, sentencing dates, or court documents.
Paid services like TruthFinder, BeenVerified, and Intelius aggregate data from public sources. They compile information from court filings, sex offender registries, and arrest logs. These platforms typically charge $20-$50 for a full report. While faster and more detailed, they may include outdated or incorrect entries. A 2021 study by the Urban Institute found that 1 in 5 background checks contained errors, especially with common names.
For the most accurate results, combine free and paid tools. Start with a state database, then cross-reference findings with a paid service. Always verify the source's credibility. Avoid sites asking for credit card details upfront or promising instant results with no verification.
| Type of Record | Typical Contents | Access Level |
|---|---|---|
| Arrest Records | Name, date, location, charges, status (pending, dropped, dismissed) | Public (varies by state) |
| Conviction Records | Case number, court, verdict, sentence, release date | Public (often restricted if sealed) |
| Warrants | Issuance date, type (bench, arrest), jurisdiction | Public (may be updated daily) |
| Sex Offender Registry | Full name, photo, offense, residence, registration level | Public (federal and state databases) |
Not all records are visible. Sealed records-such as those from juvenile proceedings or expunged cases-are hidden from public view. In some states, like Texas, sealed records remain accessible to law enforcement and courts but not to the general public. The U.S. Department of Justice notes that "expungement removes the record from public access, but it may still exist internally within law enforcement systems."
A common mistake is assuming that an arrest equals a conviction. An arrest is an allegation; a conviction is a legal finding. Many people are arrested but never convicted. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, 60% of felony arrests in 2020 did not result in a conviction. Always distinguish between arrest and outcome.
One frequent error is searching with incomplete or incorrect personal information. Using a nickname or abbreviated name can return false positives. For example, searching "Mike Smith" in a large state like Florida may return results for multiple individuals. To reduce errors, include your date of birth, Social Security Number (SSN), or driver's license number if required.
Another issue is relying solely on free tools. While some state portals are accurate, others have outdated data. I once ran a search on a former coworker's record using a free site that listed a 2005 DUI that had been dismissed. The site didn't clarify the dismissal status. Cross-referencing with the state court's electronic filing system revealed the case was closed. Always verify with official sources.
Finally, avoid services that claim to "clear" your record. No private company can erase criminal history. Only a court can seal or expunge records. Misleading marketing is common-some sites advertise "instant removal" or "guaranteed clearance." These are red flags. Stick to verified government portals or reputable third-party providers.
If you find an error, contact the issuing agency. Most state courts allow corrections via written request or online form. Provide documentation such as a court order, dismissal letter, or proof of identity. The process can take 30-90 days.
If you discover a record that should be sealed or expunged, consult a lawyer. Eligibility varies by state. In California, for example, you can petition to expunge a misdemeanor conviction after completing probation. The process requires filing a petition with the court and attending a hearing. The state's Judicial Council provides forms and guidance online.
Always prioritize accuracy and legality. Use only verified sources. Keep copies of all searches and correspondence. Regular checks help track changes and ensure your record reflects your current legal status.