What You Need to Know About Finding Criminal Records in California
In California, individuals can find their criminal record by requesting a copy from the state’s Department of Justice. Here’s everything you need to know about finding criminal records in California.
The State of California Department of Justice manages criminal history records. By law, the DOJ can only allow access to this information under certain circumstances. Individuals in California have the right to ask the DOJ for copies of their records to review.
Who Can Access Criminal Records?
The DOJ can allow certain authorities access to criminal history summary records if the information serves a legitimate law enforcement objective. Additionally, authorized applicant agencies can obtain criminal records. Applicant agencies can run background checks on individuals seeking employment, licenses, or volunteer positions. If an individual wants to receive a copy of their criminal record to assess, they must follow a series of steps.
Related: How to Disclose a Criminal Record on a Job Application
What Steps Do You Need to Take to Find Your Criminal Record in California?
California Residents
- Submit Live Scan fingerprints.
Live Scan automatically sends a digital fingerprint image to the California Department of Justice. A California resident requesting a copy of their criminal record can go to a Live Scan site to do so. Applicants must fill out the Live Scan Form (Form BCIA 8016RR). On this form, enter “Record Review” as both the “Type of Application” and “Reason for Application.”
After completing this document, applicants should seek fingerprinting services at a Live Scan site. Most police departments and sheriff’s offices provide these services. The cost of fingerprinting varies depending on the location. In addition to any fingerprinting fees, a separate $25 DOJ processing fee applies. Individuals can find the site closest to them in their county (Public Live Scan Sites).
Out-of-State Residents
1. Fill out a manual fingerprint card.
Individuals who do not reside in California must obtain and submit manual fingerprint cards. Local law enforcement agencies provide these FD-258 cards. Applicants must include their full name, date of birth, sex, and return mailing address on their fingerprint card.
2. Fill out the Application to Obtain a Copy of State Summary Criminal History.
Out-of-state applicants seeking to review their criminal records in California should fill out Form BCIA 8705 and print it. As with in-state applicants, the DOJ requires out-of-state individuals to pay a $25 processing fee with all record review applications. Applicants can pay this fee by including a check payable to the California DOJ with their application.
3. Mail All Necessary Documents to the Department of Justice.
Applicants must mail Form BCIA 8705, their fingerprint card, and the $25 fee to this address:
California Department of Justice
Bureau of Criminal Identification and Analysis
Record Review & Challenge Section
PO BOX 160207
Sacramento, CA 95816-0207
Related: Criminal Defense FAQs in California
Are There Any Fee Waivers to Assist with Application Costs?
Individuals can apply for a waiver for the $25 DOJ processing fee. Depending on the applicant’s income and whether or not they are receiving public assistance, they may qualify for this waiver. Individuals can check their eligibility and apply for fee waivers here.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one would like to learn more about Find Criminal Records California, get your free consultation with one of our Criminal Defense Attorneys in California today!