Frequently Asked Questions
What are criminal records?
Criminal records are official documents maintained by courts, law enforcement, and corrections agencies that document arrests, charges, convictions, sentences, and incarceration history.
How do I search criminal records for free?
Most states offer free criminal record searches through their state repository or court system websites. Federal criminal records can be searched through PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records).
What shows up on a criminal record?
Arrests, felony and misdemeanor charges, convictions, sentences, probation, parole, incarceration history, sex offender registration, and in some states pending cases.
How long do criminal records last?
Most criminal convictions remain on your record permanently unless expunged or sealed. Some states limit reporting of certain misdemeanors to seven to ten years for employment screening under the FCRA.
Can I get my criminal record expunged?
Expungement eligibility varies by state and offense. Many states allow expungement of certain misdemeanors and non-violent offenses after a waiting period. Felonies are harder to expunge but some states now permit it for select offenses.
Step-by-Step Guide
Decide between state criminal history repositories (comprehensive), county court records (most accurate), or national databases (broad but may miss local records).
Most states allow name-based criminal history searches through the state police or Bureau of Investigation. Fees are typically $10–$35.
For the most accurate results, search the county court clerk's website where the person lived or was arrested. Most county courts have free online search portals.
For federal criminal cases (drug trafficking, fraud, tax evasion, etc.), search PACER (pacer.gov). Account registration is free; search fees are $0.10/page.
For employment or legal purposes, use a state-certified background check. Many states offer this through the Attorney General or State Police website.
What Records Are Available
Frequently Asked Questions
Are criminal records public?
Most criminal court records are public under state open records laws. Exceptions include juvenile records, sealed cases, expunged records, and certain victim-related information.
How far back do criminal records go?
State repositories vary: some go back 7 years, others indefinitely. Court records are typically permanent. Expunged or sealed records may not appear.
Can criminal records be expunged?
Yes — eligibility depends on the state, offense type, and time elapsed. Minor offenses and first-time convictions are most commonly eligible. See our state expungement guides for details.
What is the difference between an arrest record and a conviction?
An arrest record shows someone was charged. A conviction means they were found guilty. Employers and landlords may ask about both, but many states restrict use of arrests without convictions.
Criminal Records by State