🔎 How to Request Your FBI Identity History Summary
Get your own FBI background record (rap sheet).
💰
About $18 DOJ fee plus channeler/fingerprinting service fees
⏱️
Electronically: same day to a week; by mail: several weeks
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📋 Documents you'll need
- Completed applicant information form
- Fingerprint card (FD-258) taken at a live-scan site or police station
- Payment of the DOJ/FBI fee
- Valid photo ID
🪜 Step-by-step
- Decide the route: an FBI-approved channeler (usually faster) or direct submission to the FBI's CJIS Division.
- Get fingerprinted on form FD-258 at a live-scan location or local police department.
- Complete the applicant information form with your personal details.
- Mail the card, form, and payment, or submit through the channeler electronically.
- Receive the summary by mail or electronically; results are sent only to you.
- If a record is wrong or incomplete, follow the FBI's record-challenge procedures.
| Estimated cost | About $18 DOJ fee plus channeler/fingerprinting service fees |
|---|---|
| Typical timeline | Electronically: same day to a week; by mail: several weeks |
Note This guide is general information and procedures, fees, and rules can change and vary by state or agency. The official authority is always the relevant government office and its official website. See our Disclaimer.
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Frequently asked questions
Can someone else request my record?
Only you or someone with your signed, notarized permission may request your identity history.
What if I just need employment background check?
Employers must use authorized programs and your consent; you can still order a personal copy to review it first.
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