Dps criminal background check texas. With a notable percentage of employers performing background checks, understanding the nuances of Texas regulations and best practices is essential. If you have any Incidents to report, please use the form below. Every individual who applies for a license with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (“the Department”) is subject to a criminal background check to determine his or her suitability for the license. Legislative Authority for Criminal and Non-Criminal Justice Entities’ Access Policy: A criminal or non-criminal justice entity legislatively authorized by Chapter 411, Subchapter Aug 25, 2025 · The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the primary agency managing background checks, including criminal history records. When a match is identified through either AFIS, the corresponding criminal history record is pulled from the DPS or the FBI system. How To Search The Criminal History Database Table of Contents Search Requirements Search Credits Purchasing Search Credits by Credit Card Purchasing Search Credits by Check How To Get The Best Results Search Results Additional Information Search Requirements To perform a criminal history record search you must create a CRD Secure Website Account and purchase credits for each search you will Name-based Texas Criminal History checks for DFPS employees, DFPS volunteers, Purchased Client Services contract providers, and external volunteers cost DFPS $1 per name submitted to DPS. The Criminal History Records FAQs from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) answers many questions about criminal history checks. Preview allows you to review detailed descriptive information, including a photo, before being debited a credit. A fingerprint 2 days ago · Criminal History in a Background Check Under the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), arrest records cannot be reported after seven years. us /Crime Records/Revies of Personal Criminal History or by calling the DPS Program Vendor at 1-888-467-2080, submit a full and complete set of fingerprints, request a copy be sent to the agency listed below, and pay a fee of In order to complete the fingerprint process, I must make an appointment with the Fingerprint Applicant Services of Texas (FAST) as instructed online Crime Records General Information | Department of Public Safety (texas. Computerized Criminal History Search Search for individuals in the Computerized Criminal History System (CCH). Please use the TDPS Criminal History Search, or call (855) 481-7070. Texas and several other states have laws to limit how long a criminal conviction can be reported. 114, in the following limited circumstances: By court order. Access is restricted to authorized Entities. It is a central holding place for criminal history records in Texas. Criminal History Form IdentoGO IdentoGO is the criminal history record check service provider for The university requires a criminal background check, including a sex offender registry check, on applicants for employment, current employees, and university affiliates as required by university policy and state and federal requirements. Oct 4, 2021 · Fingerprints provided for this application shall be used to check criminal history records of the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in accordance with applicable statutes. Sep 9, 2025 · You should run a self-background check in Texas to find and correct inaccurate records, check for identity theft, enhance your social image, and prepare for potential employer questions. FACT displays both results in one location. There are seven types of background checks that DFPS is authorized to perform: Texas Criminal History check: A name-based search of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) database of crimes committed in Texas. Results consist of Texas-based arrests May 23, 2023 · Conducting criminal background checks in Texas ensures hiring managers are making a safe and responsible hiring decision. Feb 11, 2025 · Criminal record searches are a critical component for employers in Texas aiming to ensure workplace safety and comply with legal standards. Oct 15, 2020 · Criminal background checks in the state are overseen by the Texas Department of Public Safety. This policy is in compliance with the Texas Government Code, Section 552. He can be fingerprinted in Austin at the Department of Public Safety, Crime Records Service, to establish identification and will need to pay the current fee. Do I need to maintain it for longer? What format should I store it in? PERSONAL REVIEW It is the policy of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) that an individual or their authorized representative have access to and may receive a copy of their criminal history record information (CHRI). Clearinghouse The FACT Clearinghouse is a repository of the DPS and the Dec 3, 2024 · Texas's most complete background check is the Criminal History Report from the Texas Department of Public Safety. The DPS will email the interested party a PDF of their record or they can pick it up at a DPS Fingerprinting Services Unit office. Texas Name-based Criminal History Check A name-based criminal history check using the subject's identifiers (including name, gender and date of birth) that is requested through the Texas Department of Public Safety database of crimes committed in Texas. Form 8622, Consent for Criminal History Check Instructions for Opening a Form Some forms cannot be viewed in a web browser's PDF viewer and must be opened in the Adobe Reader application on your desktop system. When you click the Multi-Entry button, rather than the Search button, the search you entered will be listed below the search fields so you can enter another search. The reference chart provided below can help you determine which type of background check is DFPS is required to do background checks to see if a person has a criminal history, or abuse and neglect history that might be a risk to the health and safety of children, elderly, or people with disabilities. Employers, landlords, and individuals use these reports to verify history, reduce risk, and build trust. These data elements have been omitted from this document in order to better protect the security of your personal information. Criminal history--Includes arrests, dispositions, and deferred adjudication community supervision. Clearinghouse The FACT Clearinghouse is a repository of the DPS and the A name-based criminal history check using the subject's identifiers (including name, gender and date of birth) that is requested through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) database of crimes committed in Texas. Therefore, criminal history checks on certain employees must be performed In order to complete the fingerprint process I must make an appointment with the Fingerprint Applicant Services of Texas (FAST) as instructed online at www. It does not include juvenile history, although the CBCU may determine that the subject of a background check poses an immediate threat or danger to the health or safety of children based on a juvenile Chapter 250, Health and Safety Code, requires that persons convicted of certain crimes may not be employed in direct contact with an individual in specified facilities and agencies providing care to the aged and disabled. Criminal convictions, however, can be reported indefinitely under this law. A Texas name-based criminal history check is requested through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The type of check performed will vary according to the position. 023. iprospectcheck provides The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) enforces laws protecting public safety and providing for the prevention and detection of crime. ACCESS BY CRIMINAL and NON-CRIMINAL JUSTICE ENTITIES A. The FACT Clearinghouse allows an authorized entity access to a consolidated response of the DPS and FBI criminal history fingerprint results, including an electronic subscription and notification service for new arrest activity on subscribed persons. Let us know what these newly implemented changes are and how they can affect background checks. In addition, U. If a record is located, it will be provided to the individual. The FACT Clearinghouse is a repository of the DPS and the FBI fingerprint-based criminal history results. In order to complete the fingerprint process, I must make an appointment with the Fingerprint Applicant Services of Texas (FAST) as instructed online Crime Records General Information | Department of Public Safety (texas. Yes, the person needs to be fingerprinted again, unless: The person has previously submitted their fingerprints for an FBI check through DFPS and has completed a name-based background check (DPS criminal history and FPS history checks) at least every 24 months since being fingerprinted. Only persons processed through Fingerprint Applicant Services of Texas (FAST) are eligible for FACT. S Law requires companies to employ only individuals who may legally work in the United States; therefore employers must verify and show proof Sep 5, 2024 · Texas background checks are often used during the hiring process to help organizations evaluate a candidate’s eligibility and qualifications for a role. Apr 4, 2023 · A Texas resident can access their criminal record via the Texas Department of Public Safety’s Criminal History Name Search , or send the agency a written request with an authorized fingerprint card. gov) Review of Personal Criminal History or by calling the DPS Program Vendor at 1-888-467-2080, submit a full and complete The Computerized Criminal History (CCH) system is the statewide repository of criminal history data reported to the Department of Public Safety (DPS) by local criminal justice agencies in Texas. 1842 Releasing of a Copy of the DPS Criminal Records Check CPS September 2023 DFPS, including caseworkers when appropriate, may disclose Department of Public Safety’s (DPS) criminal history record information (CHRI) to specific types of people or entities per Texas Government Code §411. Complete arrest records should be requested from the Texas Department of Public Safety Crime Records. Fingerprints provided for this application shall be used to check criminal history records of the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in accordance with applicable statutes. Opening additional records will debit additional credits from your account. Ask a lawyer if you have questions about your criminal history or how to find your criminal history information. tx. I just got my Texas professional engineer license within the last few years and I understand that a Texas Department of Public Safety background check was performed for my application. txdps. All other applicants must complete a new FBI fingerprint TxDPS CRD Public Website DPS also maintains CRD Public Website for access to public criminal records and other public applications. Dec 20, 2023 · TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY SECURITY POLICY FOR NON-CRIMINAL JUSTICE AGENCIES’ ACCESS, USE, AND DISSEMINATION OF CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD INFORMATION I. A criminal background check in Texas can surface arrest records, convictions, active warrants, and court dispositions from statewide and county sources. C. (This is not a consent form. Chapter 411, Subchapter F, Texas Government Code controls the dissemination of criminal history record information (CHRI) by DPS. Introduction Texas Facilities Commission (TFC) has implemented new security procedures. . To obtain a personal criminal history record, individuals typically need to provide fingerprints. Background Check Fees Costs associated with name-based Texas Criminal History checks and fingerprint-based National Criminal History checks are as follows: Child day care and residential child care operations regulated by Texas Health and Human Services Child Care Regulation pay $2 for every person that they submit for a background check. What is FACT Clearinghouse? The FACT Clearinghouse is a repository of the DPS and the FBI fingerprint-based criminal history results. Do I have to get the new criminal history record check performed? Yes. F. This guide delves into the necessary steps, examines the legal context, and provides authoritative data to Any individual is entitled to his or her own criminal history record. Jul 11, 2025 · This section lists several criminal history records databases, with a focus on Texas records. History (CCH) check will be performed by accessing the Texas Department of Public Safety Secure Website and will be based on name and DOB identifiers I supply. 205 (b) of the Government Code, the JBCC is prohibited from conducting this type of background check; therefore, the county must instruct the proposed guardian on how to meet the fingerprint background requirement. Click here for instructions on opening this form. Jun 27, 2024 · Texas has a new law on background checks. The results of this check include all Texas-based arrests and dispositions (outcomes), including convictions and cases with unknown dispositions. Jul 2, 2025 · If you have questions regarding completing the DPS CCH Verification form required to complete the Name and Date of Birth background check. T. (Certain residential facilities and foster care Jul 15, 2025 · Per section 155. Personnel and TFC contractors & subcontractors, who work in case-sensitive areas, may be required to submit to a criminal history background check. That statute follows the national model established in federal regulations for the nationwide criminal history file managed by the FBI. Criminal History Record Check (CHRC) Self Reporting Besides completing a record check, you are also required to report any criminal history incidents for any state, federal, military, or other jurisdictions that you have ever had. Background checks are required for: Purchased Client Services (PCS) Foster and adoptive homes Relatives who are taking care of children in state custody (Kinship Care) DFPS employees Nov 1, 2023 · Once I run a background check using the DPS name-based search, I only have access to the record for 7-days. gov) Review of Personal Criminal History or by calling the DPS Program Vendor at 1-888-467-2080, submit a full and complete Login to the Texas Department of Public Safety system. Unauthorized access, use or misuse of the system is prohibited and may result in criminal and/or civil penalties. Background checks help employers learn more about an individual’s history—like criminal records, driving history, past employers, education, and more. Background checks in Texas are commonly required for employment, housing, caregiving roles, and professional licensing. Aug 6, 2025 · The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Crime Records Service is the primary agency responsible for maintaining these records. You can learn how to get your DPS Criminal History Report under Question 1 on the DPS FAQ page. Fees for this service may apply. 102, requires that each petition include a legible and complete set of the petitioner's fingerprints on a fingerprint card format acceptable to the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). If you have a non-TXDPS criminal background check report issued from either a Texas county sheriff’s or city police department those types of Texas criminal background check reports must be properly notarized by a Texas notary public before they can be apostilled and you must mail or drop off to us the wet ink Texas notarized originals. Applicants disputing the results of a name based criminal history search will need to request a personal review of their criminal history record information by submitting fingerprints to identify if a record exists with the Department. The Austin Police Department DOES NOT provide criminal history checks or “Clearance Letters” for persons requesting that service. Fingerprint-based National Criminal History checks vary in cost depending on the role of the individual being fingerprinted. At the end of the day, there are several important Secure Site User Signup Eligibility Access to the CRD Secure Site is restricted and is available to eligible entities: Legislatively Authorized Government Entities and Criminal Justice Agencies Legislatively Authorized Private Entities Apply for access to CRD Secure Website Application Criminal History Search FACT Clearinghouse SOR Access for Criminal Justice Users Related Services Users not PERSONAL REVIEW It is the policy of the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) that an individual or their authorized representative have access to and may receive a copy of their criminal history record information (CHRI). Option 2 – Criminal History Inquiry Unit: For inquiries regarding the status of Texas personal fingerprint results, open record request, legal name change, domestic or international adoptions, immigration, or how to obtain a personal criminal history record. Anyone hiring, renting, or checking a criminal record or history should understand these changes. In-home service and residential delivery companies must perform a complete criminal history background check through DPS or a private vendor on any employees or associates sent by the companies into customers' homes (including attached garages or construction areas next to homes), or else confirm that the persons sent into customers' homes are Feb 5, 2025 · Looking for a job with a criminal record can feel intimidating, to say the least. When you are done entering your searches, click the submit button. Requested data is required by the Texas Department of Public Safety to process your background check. Use of the system indicates consent to monitoring, recording, and audit. Clearinghouse The FACT Clearinghouse is a repository of the DPS and the 6 days ago · The DPS and the FBI have criminal history files of all arrests, prosecutions and court dispositions, if they have been reported to the DPS. Statewide Criminal History Check Criminal history information, including for both Travis County and the State of Texas, is available with the Texas Department of Public Safety. Common background checks in Texas include identity verification, criminal history, driving records, license checks, social media checks, and employment or education verification. Jun 29, 2023 · IdentoGO, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) fingerprint vendor, is the sole company DPS contracts with to accept electronic fingerprints for the purpose of criminal history checks. A. The DPS and the FBI have criminal history files of all arrests, prosecutions and court dispositions, if they have been reported to the DPS. Only Aug 20, 2025 · Getting a background check on yourself in Texas can be accomplished through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) for criminal records or commercial services for comprehensive reports. The Computerized Criminal History System supplies information on arrests and prosecutions for Class B misdemeanors and greater. The state contracts with a third-party provider, such as IdentoGO, to manage fingerprinting services. Results consist of Texas-based arrests and dispositions, including convictions and cases with unknown dispositions, and may contain juvenile criminal history. state. Each search allows access to one record. Criminal history does not include expunged criminal history or non-disclosure history. Texas online background check requestors provide identifying details on subjects to conduct criminal record checks. The process typically costs $15-$50 and takes 1-5 business days depending on your chosen method. Texas Sex Offender Access for Criminal Justice Users Allows local law enforcement agencies to submit and search information for Texas Sex Offender Registry. To submit proof of fingerprinting, after being fingerprinted following the county's instructions. Clearinghouse The FACT Clearinghouse is a repository of the DPS and the Instructions Updated: 9/2015 Purpose To document: an applicant's authorization for a required criminal conviction history check to be conducted by the Financial Management Services Agency (FMSA); an applicant's authorization for required registry checks to be conducted by the FMSA; the applicant's personal information required to make the checks; an employer certification regarding The Texas Family Code, Section 45. This page explains the terms commonly used by Child Care Regulation when conducting background checks. The fear of rejection or judgment during the background check process is completely valid, but understanding Texas background check laws, including what background checks show and how far they go back, can help you get through this challenge with confidence. It changes how employers, landlords, and individuals use this information. In 2009, the Texas Legislature enacted new provisions to allow a person to find out before applying whether he or she would likely be denied a license due to his or her criminal Unauthorized access, use or misuse of the system is prohibited and may result in criminal and/or civil penalties. ) Authority for this agency to access an individual’s criminal history data may be found in Texas Government Code 411; Subchapter F. qbm sq4 noxdx ql9tn uul m2pp bjp27 a3y ukibj tguawk