Arizona Background Checks

Only Fingerprint Searches are Permitted in Arizona
The Arizona Department of Public Safety or DPS is the primary resource you want to go to if you want to obtain a criminal history. You won't be able to obtain criminal records information by a name-only search as only fingerprint searches are permitted in the state.

How to Obtain Records
In order to obtain the data, searchers must first fill out a form and supply fingerprints on a fingerprint card before returning the information in a pre-addressed envelope. If you are requesting your own criminal history, then you won't be charged for the information. Usually, you'll obtain the data you need in about two weeks.

Where the Information is Housed
Information regarding criminal histories is located in the Criminal History Records Section within the DPS. DPS information can be accessed from one of three reference areas -- criminal history records, public records and departmental or public safety files. The DPS will also provide you with a current listing of sex offenders for a small charge as well.

Unless you are an Employer or Law Enforcement Official, you Can't Access other People's Records
While criminal records are available for individuals to check their own criminal background, it cannot be accessed for other people unless you work as a law enforcement officer or you are requesting the data as an employer.

Employers who request the information must meet certain qualifications for subscribing to the service. The information that is included in a criminal records report features arrest information and details regarding dispositions and convictions related to federal charges or domestic violence.

Searching Inmate Records
If you are seeking information about an inmate, then the information can be obtained online through the Arizona Department of Corrections (ADC) website. The search can be facilitated by using an inmate's I.D. number or the subject's gender and name. If you search the records with only a name, then you may receive a number of results.

Data that will be provided will list the location of the facility where the inmate is housed, his tentative date of release, and his status. Information will also show whether or not the inmate is part of a work release program, whether any disciplinary measures have been taken against him as well as any appeals that have been made regarding his case.

A Notarized Letter must be Produced if you are Represented by an Attorney
If you want to obtain your own criminal history in Arizona, you can either choose to do so yourself or retain the services of an attorney. If you are represented by an attorney, then he or she must provide a notarized letter to the DPS from you that allows the attorney to secure the records for review. Again, you'll need to complete a form as well as provide your fingerprints in order to proceed.

Make Sure that your Fingerprint Information Meets the DPS Guidelines
When requesting criminal history information, make sure that the fingerprint card used for the search features clear prints and is not, in any way, damaged or folded. Otherwise, you'll have to resubmit your request.

Contact Information
You can obtain specific details by going online and visiting the Arizona Department of Public Safety website. The DPS office is located at 2102 West Encanto Boulevard in Phoenix (zip code 85009). Contact the DPS directly by phoning them at 602-223-2000. The site also provides a link where you can contact the department by email.