Pennsylvania criminal record check. Governing Laws and Regulations In Pennsylvania, background checks are governed by the Pennsylvania Criminal History Record Information Act (CHRIA), which outlines procedures and Jun 3, 2024 · A Pennsylvania background check for employment typically involves verifying a candidate's criminal history, employment history, and sometimes education or professional licenses. ” After entering the request, it will take you back to a blank record check request form. C. Instructions on how to access my ACT 34 PA Criminal Background Check: Issuing Agency: Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) 1. Please be advised that no case-related information will be discussed over the telephone. As is the case in all other states, however, juvenile records and officially sealed records can only be accessed by a court order. us 2. PA State-Required Background Clearances for Volunteers Serving with Minors Recent revisions to the Pennsylvania Child Protective Services Law mandates specific clearances for adults who are responsible for the welfare of a minor or have "direct volunteer contact". Using this system, a requester can apply for a criminal background check on an individual basis. What does a Pennsylvania background check show? There are minor differences in what a background check will show depending on where it was retrieved, however, most of them provide a criminal record, personal information, and any related photos or fingerprints. Check the status of your Pennsylvania criminal history record through this platform. Mar 4, 2024 · Understand state laws and public records for background check Pennsylvania. Under “Credit Card Users “, select “Submit a New Record Check”. Act 114 - FBI Fingerprint Criminal Background Check Non-residents of Pennsylvania or those who have lived in Pennsylvania less than ten (10) years need to complete an FBI clearance. 00 for applicants who complete an application for Employment, Adoption, Foster Care, Other or Visa purposes. jsp Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance Pennsylvania State Police Request for Criminal Records Check Federal Criminal History Record Information (CHRI) Find information about obtaining clearances, associated laws and regulations, answers to frequently asked questions, and additional resources below. PSP established the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History, or PATCH, for agencies, companies, and others to request criminal background checks on individuals. Learn about public access, criminal trespass charges, and more. Who Needs a PA Criminal Background Check? Employers Prospective employers, as well as private Nothing will come to you in the mail or in an email. In order to comply with Pennsylvania legislation (ACT 153), your position requires that you secure a new Act 34 Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) every 60 months. Criminal justice agencies can access all of an individual's criminal history record information (CHRI). (epatch. Pennsylvania's Unified Judicial System provides comprehensive public access to court records online and upon request. If submitting an online request, select “Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) WebSite”. Pennsylvania employers have two questions to consider about their background checks regarding time. These records provide detailed information about a person’s criminal past, including arrests . 63) (CPSL) at different sections. gov/home Complete the fields in the Record Check Form. Pennsylvania uses a name-based search for most background checks. 4904(b) UNDER PENALTY OF LAW - MISIDENTIFICATION OR FALSE STATEMENTS OF IDENTITY TO OBTAIN CRIMINAL HISTORY INFORMATION OF ANOTHER IS PUNISHABLE AS AUTHORIZED BY LAW. Learn more about Instructions for Obtaining a Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check for Volunteer Purposes today. us/Home. Learn the function and limitations of criminal record repositories and how to access these records according to the provisions of the Pennsylvania Open Records Act. Read and accept the Terms and Conditions. Pennsylvania Access to the Criminal History Check NOTE: Please be aware that the fee for the PA State Police Criminal Record Check is $22. Start here >> Search databases using free public records search portal, or visit each agency individually and find free divorce records in Pennsylvania or other criminal records. You will need to check “Finished” to proceed with the record check. After you apply and pay, you MUST follow the directions on page 3 of these instructions to download/print your Criminal Record Check. Dec 7, 2024 · Types of Background Checks in Pennsylvania When it comes to background checks in Pennsylvania, one size doesn’t fit all. We proudly serve millions of customers each Pennsylvania criminal records contain the full criminal background and conviction history of persons resident within the state's jurisdiction. REQUEST FOR CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK 1-888-QUERYPA (1-888-783-7972) WARNING: 18 Pa. Free Pennsylvania public record searches, criminal records and sex offender lookup. Homeland Security is Everyone’s Responsibility - Pennsylvania Terrorism Tip Line 1-888 If submitting an online request, select “Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) WebSite”. UJS Portal – System Maintenance The AOPC will be performing system maintenance from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Sunday, August 3rd resulting in many of the portal features being unavailable. Feb 8, 2025 · State law does not limit how far back a criminal record check can go, meaning an individual’s entire criminal history may be revealed. Get help with Pennsylvania Access To Criminal History (PATCH) system, including registration, requests, and browser requirements. gov/home Use the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) site for the fastest response, but mail-in service is also available. These checks ensure workplace safety, verify qualifications, and maintain trust within organizations. May 15, 2025 · Need to check a criminal record in Pennsylvania? Learn how to use the PA UJS Portal to research and access case details easily and accurately. GUIDE FOR COMPLETING THE ACT 34 PENNSYLVANIA STATE POLICE BACKGROUND CHECK Visit the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History website at https://epatch. PENNSYLVANIA CRIMINAL RECORD CHECK Obtain a Report of your personal Criminal History Records from the Pennsylvania State Police: You can complete this online at https://epatch. If you prefer to submit an application by mail, you can download the volunteer form (SP4-164A). Requests made by noncriminal justice agencies and individuals are subject to edit criteria contained in the law. Oct 26, 2021 · Run a Pennsylvania criminal background check instantly. gov) Supporting the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, IdentoGO Centers are operated by IDEMIA the global leader in trusted identities. Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney in Pennsylvania Are you worried about how a criminal background check in Pennsylvania might affect your job prospects? Learn how to apply for required PA employment clearances: Child Abuse, FBI, Criminal History, and Act 168 forms for direct care roles. Access court records online and upon request from all courts in Pennsylvania. Use the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) site for the fastest response, but mail-in service is also available. Employers must comply with local, state, and federal laws when they conduct background checks. Learn which records employers can use when hiring. The Criminal Law Division enforces the provision in Pennsylvania’s Criminal History Record Information Act governing the use of criminal records in hiring for employment. This Act also directs the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) to disseminate criminal history data to criminal justice agencies, non-criminal justice agencies and individuals on request. Complete the fields in the Record Check Form. Results are often received immediately when applied for online. When finished, click “Enter This Request. An online account is not needed. Access aggregate numerical data from all courts including caseload statistics, collections information and interactive data dashboards. Audio-Visual Records Request To request audio or video, file an audio-visual record request, not a Right-to-Know request. The Pennsylvania State Police established a web-based computer application called “Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History” or PATCH. Verify people online by performing a background check in Pennsylvania Learn how to run a PA criminal background check on yourself and lookup your personal records. In addition, secure Court Summary Information, Case Accounting and Pre-Sentence Summary reports are available for Apr 13, 2025 · What do Pennsylvania criminal records reveal? How can they impact your life, career, or personal relationships? Whether you’re an employer conducting background checks, a landlord screening tenants, or someone reviewing your own history, understanding Pennsylvania criminal records is essential. Jan 17, 2025 · A Pennsylvania (PA) State Criminal Background Check is a systematic process of reviewing an individual’s criminal history within the state. Discover how to access criminal records in Philadelphia County, including free search options, what's included in a criminal record, and how long they're kept. Click the ‘Check the Status of a Record Check’ button This Act also directs the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) to disseminate criminal history data to criminal justice agencies, non-criminal justice agencies and individuals on request. The Importance of Criminal Background Checks Before we delve into the details of obtaining a criminal background check in Pennsylvania, let’s first understand why this process is so crucial. How to Submit an Application There are two methods of requesting a Pennsylvania Criminal record: Online Request The Pennsylvania State Police have established a web-based computer application called "Pennsylvania Access To Criminal History (PATCH) ". First, how many years back does a criminal background c Jul 17, 2024 · The Pennsylvania State Police shall forward the results of the criminal history record check to the Department of State for the sole purpose of determining the applicant's eligibility for a license, certificate, registration or permit under subsection (a). Homeland Security is Everyone’s Responsibility - Pennsylvania Terrorism Tip Line 1-888-292-1919 This Act also directs the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) to disseminate criminal history data to criminal justice agencies, non-criminal justice agencies and individuals on request. us to complete a “Criminal History Record Check. Perform background checks with thousands of government and public record sources. Feb 24, 2021 · 2. Choose the option for volunteers and follow the online instructions. Apr 20, 2022 · States have different regulations on criminal records, and Pennsylvania is especially unique. Click on the “Control #” link and download/print your Criminal Record Check. Crash Reports Purchase a copy of a crash report online or submit a request by mail. This can include traffic violations, misdemeanors, mugshots, date of arrest, and a description of what happened in the crime. Online submission is a much quicker process and is highly recommended, when possible. Access Pennsylvania's criminal history records for employment, volunteering, or personal use through the state's online system. Mar 31, 2022 · Pennsylvania background checks often include criminal records searches using the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) online database, but also may rely on national records searches or even an FBI criminal history clearance. Today, the company partners with many federal, state and local government agencies as well as businesses covering a variety of industries that count on us for the secure capture and transmission of applicants’ fingerprints. Your clearance also needs to be given to your church(es) and for clergy, your District Office, either via mail, email or hand carry. criminal Common Pleas court case information magisterial district court case information including: civil cases criminal cases traffic cases non-traffic cases landlord/tenant cases Court case information should not be used in place of a criminal history background check, which can only be provided by the Pennsylvania State Police. For any questions concerning case files, criminal records, background checks, or ordering of criminal case files, call 412-350-5320. S. ADDRESS CITY/STATE/ ZIP CODE AFTER COMPLETION MAIL TO: PENNSYLVANIA STATE POLICE CENTRAL REPOSITORY – RCPU 1800 ELMERTON AVENUE HARRISBURG, PA 17110-9758 TELEPHONE NO. Please enter as much information as possible. Find out the truth about anyone's criminal past. A Pennsylvania state police criminal record check can be crucial when seeking employment. Docket sheet information should not be used in place of a criminal history background check, which can only be provided by the Pennsylvania State Police. Applicants required to submit a fingerprint-based FBI Criminal History Background Check in accordance with the Pennsylvania Child Protective Services Law (CPSL), 23 Pa. Dec 25, 2019 · Table of Contents Pennsylvania background checks can be useful for finding out about the character of an applicant for employment, tenancy, or loans. The response document will open on a new tab in your browser. History Check Reviewing your Personal History record and correcting inaccurate information could be the difference between you and another candidate when applying for a job. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. For official use, take a look at the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History website. Mar 22, 2022 · A PA criminal background check may contain conviction reports, criminal checks, disposed criminal reports, and some traffic reports from the Pennsylvania Magisterial District Courts as well as felony and misdemeanor convictions from the Courts of Common Pleas. Criminal Record Checks For personal use visit the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania Web Portal. ” Click on ‘Submit a New Record Check’ on the home page. Criminal History Background Check Request a Criminal History Background Check online or by mail. Sep 24, 2024 · Federal and Pennsylvania Laws provide some protections for job applicants with criminal records. Criminal Offenses. Act 15 of 2015 amended the clearance requirements to require criminal background checks be performed upon initial hire and then renewed every 60 months. Many employers now require this as part of their background checks to assess suitability. State background check staff review criminal records to determine if any convictions are prohibited offenses as per the Pennsylvania Child Protective Services Law. All searches are anonymous Jan 19, 2025 · Understanding what is included in a Pennsylvania (PA) background check is crucial for both employers and applicants. Dec 30, 2024 · Introduction to PA Criminal Background Check Clearance A Pennsylvania (PA) criminal background check clearance is a document that certifies an individual’s criminal history, or lack thereof, within the state of Pennsylvania. Feb 8, 2025 · The scope of criminal record checks in Pennsylvania depends on the nature of the inquiry and the entity conducting it. The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) offers a central repository for criminal history records. Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Background Check (SP4-164) The Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Background Check can be completed through online submission OR by mailing in a paper copy. If submitting a request by mail, select “Download the Criminal History Request Form SP4-164” and follow the instructions. The Pennsylvania State Police manage the Pennsylvania Access To Criminal History (PATCH) system, which provides access to state-level records, including convictions, non-convictions, and pending charges. This clearance is free for volunteers every 5 years. Learn more about Instructions for Obtaining a Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check for School of Education Field Placement Purposes (SELF PAY) today. Applicants can go to the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History website and apply for their criminal record check online with the Pennsylvania State Police at: https://epatch. Discover best background check services and submit a request now! Applicants can go to the Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History website and apply for their criminal record check online with the Pennsylvania State Police at: https://epatch. However, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) restricts reporting arrests without convictions after seven years, while convictions may be reported indefinitely. In today's security-conscious work environment, over 92 percent of employers conduct criminal background checks. Let’s break down the most common types of background checks you’ll encounter in PA: Criminal Background Checks Criminal Nov 12, 2024 · Most Pennsylvania criminal background checks are public record. Section 6344. 2 was added to require any prospective employee engaging in an occupation with a “significant likelihood of regular contact with children, in the form of care, guidance, supervision or training” to obtain a Pennsylvania Criminal History Record Check through the Pennsylvania State Police and a Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Record Check Learn about whether your criminal record in Pennsylvania can be automatically sealed under Clean Slate. Print the clearance for your files. Depending on the situation, like hiring, finding a tenant, or buying a gun, you need different checks to follow state rules and safety standards. The Pennsylvania State Police use the Public Access to Criminal History (PATCH) system to perform official background checks. This means information is accessible to anyone who knows how to search for it online or request it by mail. Select Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH) Click on “Submit a New Record Check” (you are NOT a Volunteer, so don’t select that option) Read the Terms and Conditions page; at the bottom select the “Accept” button to agree to the terms and conditions The next screen has you select “Individual” or “Company” request. Once the report is complete, please print a copy and return it to the Associate If you have questions about the Pennsylvania State Police Request for Criminal Record Checks form for employment (SP4 164) or to volunteer (SP4-164A), please call: (717) 783-9973 or toll free 1-888-783-7972. Criminal justice agencies can access all of an individual's criminal history record information (CHRI). We appreciate your patience and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Apply for an FBI Criminal History Background Check Pennsylvania requires certain individuals to get FBI criminal history background clearance to be employed, adopt or foster a child, or volunteer while having contact with children. Go to https://epatch. state. The Secure Web Docket Sheet option provides access to search, view and print docket sheets that contain additional content not accessible for public viewing, for Pennsylvania’s Criminal Courts of Common Pleas, Magisterial District Courts and the Philadelphia Municipal Court. To request compliant and comprehensive background checks Mar 15, 2023 · Need a Pennsylvania background check? Learn more about criminal & employment screening in PA from Checkr today. As to the following listed Pennsylvania crimes or offenses, or another jurisdiction’s substantially equivalent crimes or offenses, check the box next to any applicable crime or offense in which you or a household member: Drexel University's Department of Human Resources serves to support the University's most important element – people. This guide provides all the steps involved in finding public records in PA. Search and view individual case information, aggregate data, contract summaries, salary reports and more. Moved PermanentlyThe document has moved here. In terms Jun 24, 2025 · Pennsylvania law sets clear limits on how employers can use background checks and criminal records in hiring, ensuring a fair and transparent process for applicants. pa. Chapter 63 (relating to child protective services) must use a Department of Human Services (DHS) service code when pre-registering for fingerprinting: Mar 8, 2025 · Understand the key rules of Pennsylvania’s Criminal History Record Information Act, including access, disclosure limits, and individual rights. Jun 24, 2025 · Employment background checks in Pennsylvania investigate an applicant’s criminal history, employment record, education, and other relevant information to ensure a comprehensive assessment of their qualifications and suitability for the job. us. Whether you are an employer or an individual, conducting a background check helps ensure the safety and security of your workplace, community, and personal life. If results are not immediately received, please note the following: If you This Act also directs the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) to disseminate criminal history data to criminal justice agencies, non-criminal justice agencies and individuals on request. Learn everything about a criminal background check in PA. The outage will affect both public and secure users of the site. The Pennsylvania Judiciary Web Portal provides the public with access to various aspects of court information, including appellate courts, common pleas courts and magisterial district court docket sheets; common pleas courts and magisterial district court calendars; and PAePay. PA STATE POLICE CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK Act 34 of 1985 specified that employees of public and private schools, hired as of January 1, 1986, must undergo criminal background checks. Drexel University's Department of Human Resources serves to support the University's most important element – people. In addition to the public information available on this site, specialized eServices are available to users with a Computer terminals are available for researching criminal records. This law aims to help individuals with criminal records get a fair chance to demonstrate their qualifications before their criminal histories come under review. pqi egpxolar xodzge lcud aeapqk xabicw ahub jzq atlq szqw