Contact the police department or sheriff’s office in the area where you were arrested
Request a copy of your criminal history record from the state police or state repository
Submit a fingerprint-based background check request if required by your state
Use the FBI Identity History Summary Check for a federal criminal record
Check your state’s online criminal records or court records portal
Visit the courthouse where your case was handled and request case records
Request records from the clerk of court for each county where you may have been charged
Use an authorized background check service that provides criminal record reports
Review any prior court documents, sentencing records, or probation paperwork you have
Hire an attorney or records specialist if you need help obtaining sealed or hard-to-find records