Criminal records background checks 

For a fee a criminal records background check may be requested by any person on
any individual.

Any open records that have been reported to a state's criminal records repository may be released. Pre-employment-screening agencies designated by statute and authorized under law may obtain closed records.

Two types of criminal records background checks may be performed:
 
1. A name search.
2. A fingerprint search.

A name search will use the individuals full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number. A search of fingerprints will use the individuals fingerprints to search the automated fingerprint identification system (AFIS) database. Fees vary from state to state for each search.

A criminal background record, investigation will include both open and closed records. An open record check will include, pending charges within 30 days of an arrest, any suspended imposition of sentencing during probation, and convictions. The closed record check will display any arrests after 30 days where no charges have been filed or reported by the prosecuting attorney, charges that were not processed or dismissed, suspended imposition of sentencing after probation was completed, and not guilty verdicts. Depending on the state, any crimes committed while a minor may also be listed.

Any one wishing to conduct a backgrounds check on an individual may view open records. Closed records are available to that individual, the sentencing advisory commissions, law enforcement, prosecutors, court personnel, childcare agencies, the Department of Revenue, in-home service providers, the Division of Workers' Compensation, criminal justice employers, childcare employers, and nursing home employers. For investigative purposes as authorized by law or presidential executive order, federal agencies are allowed to review closed records.