criminal background check on myself: what to expect and how to prepare

Why run your own check

Requesting a criminal background check on myself lets me confirm what employers, landlords, or licensing boards might see. Reviewing it first helps spot mistakes, understand case dispositions, and prepare accurate explanations. It’s also useful before expungement or record-sealing so I know exactly which entries exist.

What appears on reports

Depending on the source, results may include arrests, convictions, dismissals, pending cases, and probation or parole statuses. Some databases add identifiers, which reduce mix-ups but can still misattribute records if names or dates of birth are similar.

• Identity matches and aliases
• County, state, and federal court searches
• Sex offender registry checks
• Case numbers, charges, and dispositions

How to request it

Start with your state criminal history repository and your local county clerk; many offer mail-in or in-person requests. For broader coverage, use a reputable consumer reporting agency and ask for a copy of your file.

Key tips and FAQs

Use precise identifiers: full legal name, prior names, and recent addresses. Consider fingerprints when available to reduce false matches. Disputing errors is your right; submit documentation to both the reporting agency and the court, and keep written confirmations for future screenings.