Check your own criminal record through the official police, court, or justice department website in your area
Request a background check or criminal history report from the relevant government agency
Visit the local courthouse to search public court records
Use an official fingerprint-based criminal record check if required
Contact the national or state police records office
Search online court databases for criminal case records
Hire a licensed background check service that uses legal public records
Ask the person directly for a copy of their criminal record if it is their own record
Verify identity and follow local privacy laws before requesting records
Review expungement or sealing rules if records may not be publicly available