Background Check Online
How to request an official criminal background check through law enforcement agencies — FBI Identity History Summary, state DOJ records, and Live Scan fingerprinting locations across all 50 states.
🔍 How to Get Started →Which Background Check Do You Need?
Personal Background Check
Request your own criminal history from the state DOJ or FBI to review for accuracy and identify any errors. Useful before applying for jobs, housing, or licenses. Most affordable option: $25–$65 through your state DOJ.
Employment Background Check
Employers use certified Consumer Reporting Agencies (CRAs) governed by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Employers may not conduct background checks without written consent. Results include criminal history, employment verification, and more.
Tenant / Rental Check
Landlords use FCRA-governed CRAs to screen rental applicants. Similar to employment checks — requires your written consent. Results include criminal history and credit history.
Firearms Purchase (NICS)
The FBI's National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is automatically run when purchasing a firearm from a licensed dealer. Results typically returned within minutes. Conducted by the dealer — not requestable independently.
How to Get a Background Check Through Law Enforcement
Choose Your Method
Fastest: State DOJ online portal (where available). Most Comprehensive: FBI Identity History Summary via fbi.gov. Most Common: Live Scan fingerprinting at a police department or authorized vendor.
Locate a Live Scan Site
Navigate to your county in our directory to find police departments that offer Live Scan fingerprinting. Many UPS stores and notary offices also provide this service. Call ahead — fingerprinting hours are typically limited to weekday mornings.
Bring Required ID
Bring valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and any agency-required forms. For employment purposes, bring your employer's authorization letter and ORI number (the agency identifier for your employer's authorized use).
Pay & Receive Results
Standard fees: $25–$35 for state DOJ check + $32 Live Scan processing fee. FBI Identity History Summary: $18 online. Results returned in 3–30 days depending on state and check type. Results sent directly to the requesting party or employer.
Background Check Fees by Type
| Check Type | Who Conducts | Fee | Processing Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| State DOJ Name Check | State DOJ / police records | $10 – $25 | 1–5 business days | Quick criminal history overview |
| Live Scan (State DOJ) | Police dept / authorized vendor | $25–$35 + $32 Live Scan | 3–10 business days | Employment, licensing, housing |
| FBI Identity History Summary | FBI via fbi.gov | $18 | 3–5 business days | Comprehensive federal check |
| FBI Live Scan (Federal) | Authorized channeler | $18 + channeler fee | 2–3 business days | Federal employment, immigration |
| FCRA Consumer Report | Licensed CRA (employer use) | $30 – $100 | 1–3 business days | Employment by employer |
Background Check FAQ
Find Live Scan Fingerprinting Near You
Navigate to your county to find police departments and authorized Live Scan fingerprinting locations for official background checks.