Self Check Online
Self Background Check Online
See how to run a self background check online using official routes first, what each source shows, and when private lookups can help fill gaps.
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Criminal Records
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Check Guide:
Your Starting Point
Run an official self background check online and know what to add next
Quick Start
- Yes—start online with your state criminal history repository self-request.
- Add the FBI identity history summary if a federal self-check is requested.
- Search statewide court indexes for open cases and recent filings.
- Use a people-search site only for addresses, aliases, and contact history.
Best Starting Route
title
State Criminal History Repository Route
best for
Checking your own state-level criminal record for employment, licensing, or personal review
why this is usually first
It is the official statewide source, matches to your identity, and many states let you request your own record online.
when to move on
If online self-requests are not available, results are limited, or you need other states or federal records, add court searches and the FBI route.
Official vs Private Sources
| Check Type | Best For | What It Shows | Main Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| state criminal history repository route | Official statewide criminal record on yourself | Arrests, charges, and convictions reported by state agencies | Not all dispositions appear immediately; access rules vary by state |
| court index and case-search route | Finding cases, statuses, and recent filings | Case numbers, parties, charges, and docket entries | Often index-only; sealed or older records may be omitted |
| FBI identity history summary route | Federal or identity-based self-checks | Arrests and submissions tied to your fingerprints | Not a general nationwide court search; identity steps required |
| people-search site | Addresses, aliases, and contact history | Names, past addresses, phones, possible relatives | Not official criminal records; data can be outdated or mismatched |
| commercial background-check site | Quick, non-official overview across sources | Packaged public-record summaries and web data | Scope and accuracy vary; not an official criminal record |
Access Notes
- No single public 'national' background check exists; combine state repository, court, and federal routes as needed.
- Name searches can miss records; fingerprint-based self-requests are more reliable when offered.
- Court portals often show indexes only; get the docket or file to confirm outcomes.
- If a private site shows errors, verify with official sources first, then request corrections or opt out.
Do-It-Yourself Flow
Start with State Repository
Find your state criminal history repository and submit the self-request online if offered; otherwise follow its posted steps.
Check Courts
Search your state’s court index for your name, confirm case details on the docket, and note any pending matters.
Add Federal or Private Context
Request the FBI identity history summary if needed and use a people-search to collect address and alias history for cross-checking.
Common Questions
Is a police records request the same as a background check?
No. A police report covers one incident or agency. A background check uses statewide repositories and court searches.
Do I need fingerprints for a self-check?
Some routes require them. Follow the repository or FBI instructions; fingerprint checks reduce false matches.
Will sealed or expunged cases appear online?
Official portals usually hide them. Private sites may still show old snapshots; verify and request removal.
What if I lived in multiple states?
Repeat the state repository and court index steps for each state, and add the FBI summary if a nationwide identity check is requested.