Criminal Background Check Resources

Not all states allow public access to statewide criminal records information. Some allow online access, while others require written application forms. Fees vary, and access may require a specific authorization form and/or specific identifying information such as full name, address, date of birth, social security number, and county of residence.

“Offender” or “inmate” searches are generally limited to individuals who were sentenced to state prison. Many states provide online access to sex offender registries (SORs), but information provided through these registries is also limited.

Criminal records checks include convictions and sometimes arrests. Child abuse registry checks can reveal if a person was named in a report, but registry checks are not available in all states.