Criminal History Check Virginia: Fast, Official Records Access

Criminal history check Virginia gives people a way to get official records from the state. The Virginia State Police runs the main system for these checks. There are two ways to ask for a record: by mail or online. Both need the SP-167 form, fingerprints, ID, and a fee. The mail option takes about 15 business days after the agency gets your packet. The online option also takes 15 days once the fingerprints are checked through IAFIS. You can track your request by calling (804) 674-2131. The mailing address is P.O. Box 85076, Richmond, VA 23285. If you want a certified copy, you must pay $12 extra and include a stamped envelope. This record shows felony and misdemeanor convictions, court case numbers, and sentencing dates. It does not show arrests without convictions unless they are pending. Only the official state-issued report works for jobs, licenses, or court cases.

How to Request a Criminal History Check in Virginia

To start a criminal history check Virginia request, you must use the SP-167 form. This form is only available from the Virginia State Police. You cannot download it from other sites. Fill it out fully with your name, date of birth, and address. Attach a clear copy of your driver’s license or state ID. You must also give fingerprints on an FD-258 card. These can be done at a local police station or sheriff’s office. The fee is $10 for the basic check. Mail everything to the Civil & Applicants Records Exchange in Richmond. If you choose the online method, scan the SP-167 and upload it to the VSP portal. You will also upload a digital fingerprint image. Pay the fee with a credit card. The system will send you a confirmation email. Processing starts only after all items are received. Do not send cash. Use a check or money order for mail requests.

Mail-In Request Steps

• Complete the SP-167 form with your full legal name and current address.
• Get fingerprints on an FD-258 card from a law enforcement agency.
• Copy your government-issued photo ID.
• Write a check or money order for $10 made out to “Virginia State Police.”
• Mail all items to P.O. Box 85076, Richmond, VA 23285.
• Wait 15 business days after delivery for processing to finish.

Online Request Steps

• Go to the VSP online portal for criminal background services.
• Create an account with your email and phone number.
• Upload a scanned SP-167 form and digital fingerprint image.
• Pay the $10 fee using a credit or debit card.
• Check your email for a receipt and tracking number.
• Allow 15 business days after submission for the report to be ready.

What’s Included in a Virginia Criminal History Report

A criminal history check Virginia report lists only court-adjudicated offenses. This means it shows convictions, not arrests or charges that were dropped. Felonies and misdemeanors appear with the court name, case number, and date of judgment. Traffic violations that are criminal, like DUI, are included. Civil infractions like speeding tickets are not. The report also shows if you are a registered sex offender in Virginia. It does not include records from other states unless they were entered into the national IAFIS system. Expunged records are removed and will not appear. If you have a pardon, it may be noted but the conviction stays unless sealed by court order. The report is valid for 90 days for employment or licensing use.

Common Items Found on the Report

Certified vs. Uncertified Copies: What’s the Difference

An uncertified copy comes free with your request and shows the basic record. A certified copy costs $12 extra and has the official seal of the Virginia State Police. Only the certified version is accepted for jobs, professional licenses, or court filings. To get it, you must sign the SP-167 in front of a notary. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope. The certified copy will be mailed back to you within 15 days. Do not use third-party sites that claim to offer faster service. The state does not offer rush processing. If a site says it can get your record in 24 hours, it is not using the official channel. Always verify the source before paying.

Who Can Request a Criminal History Check in Virginia

Anyone can request their own criminal history check Virginia record. Employers can ask with written permission from the job seeker. Licensing boards use it for nurses, teachers, and contractors. Private investigators must follow DCJS rules. They cannot get a report without a valid reason. Law enforcement agencies have direct access through the NCJI system. Schools, daycares, and healthcare providers often require it for staff. Landlords may ask but must follow fair housing laws. The subject of the check must consent in writing unless the request is from a government agency. Minors can have records requested by a parent or guardian. All requests are logged for audit purposes.

Authorized Request Types

• Self-request for personal review
• Employment background check with consent
• Professional licensing application
• Volunteer work at schools or nonprofits
• Adoption or foster care screening
• Law enforcement investigation

Virginia Courts Online Portal for Public Records

The Virginia Courts website lets you search criminal and traffic cases by name or case number. This is free and does not require an account. You can see charges, court dates, and final outcomes. The system covers General District Courts and some Circuit Courts. It does not show sealed or expunged cases. You cannot pay fines or fees through this site. For certified documents, visit the clerk’s office in person. The portal is updated daily but may lag by 24–48 hours. Use it to double-check information from a state police report. Always confirm with the official VSP record for legal decisions.

Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) Guidelines

The DCJS sets rules for private security licenses in Virginia. If you apply for a guard or investigator license, they will run a criminal history check Virginia. Certain crimes lead to automatic denial. These include violent felonies, sex crimes against minors, and fraud against the government. The investigator must note the conviction date, court, and if all sentences were completed. Even if denied, you can reapply after five years if you show rehabilitation. The board looks at job history, community service, and character references. Each case is reviewed individually. The final decision is sent by mail within 30 days.

NCJI System for Authorized Agencies

The New Criminal Justice Information (NCJI) portal is for police, courts, and state agencies only. It offers three forms: SP-167 for full records, SP-230 for name-based checks, and SP-266 for sex offender data. Access needs a username and password from VSP. Every search is recorded with the user’s ID and timestamp. This prevents misuse. Agencies use it for hiring, investigations, and compliance. Private citizens cannot use NCJI. If you are not part of a government body, you must go through the public request process. The system connects to national databases like IAFIS and NCIC.

DPOR Licensing and Criminal History Reviews

The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) checks criminal history for license applicants. This includes contractors, real estate agents, and cosmetologists. State law requires a case-by-case review. The board must consider nine factors. These include how serious the crime was, how long ago it happened, and if the person has changed. They also look at work history and letters of recommendation. If the crime is not related to the job, it may not block the license. The board writes a final decision and keeps it on file. You can appeal if denied.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people delay their criminal history check Virginia by making simple errors. Sending an incomplete SP-167 form is the top mistake. Missing signatures, wrong fees, or bad fingerprints cause rejection. Do not use third-party sites that charge high fees. They still send your info to the state and add a markup. Avoid calling the VSP before 15 days pass. They cannot speed up the process. Do not assume your record is clean. Check it yourself before applying for jobs. If you find errors, file a challenge with the court that handled the case. The state police cannot correct court records.

How Long Does It Take

The standard time for a criminal history check Virginia is 15 business days. This starts when the VSP receives your complete packet. Mail delivery can add 3–5 days. Online submissions are faster to process but still take 15 days after fingerprint verification. Holidays and staff shortages may cause delays. The state does not offer expedited service. If you need it urgently, plan ahead. For court deadlines, ask for an extension. The VSP does not guarantee faster times for any reason.

Fees and Payment Methods

The base fee for a criminal history check Virginia is $10. For a certified copy, add $12. Pay by check, money order, or credit card. Do not send cash. Make checks payable to “Virginia State Police.” Online payments use a secure portal. Refunds are not given for processed requests. If your packet is rejected, you must resubmit with correct items. Keep your receipt until the report arrives.

Correcting Errors on Your Record

If your criminal history check Virginia shows wrong info, contact the court where the case was heard. The VSP only reports what the court sends. You cannot fix it through the police. File a motion to correct the record with the clerk. Bring proof like a dismissal order or pardon. Once the court updates its system, the VSP will reflect the change in future reports. This can take 30–60 days. Keep copies of all court documents.

Expungement and Sealing in Virginia

Virginia allows expungement for some charges. If you were acquitted or the case was dismissed, you can ask to erase it. Misdemeanors may be eligible after seven years. Felonies are rarely expunged. Pardons do not remove the record but may help with jobs. Sealing is different—it hides the record from public view but not from police. Only a judge can order sealing. The process starts with a petition to the circuit court. Fees apply. If granted, the VSP will not show the record on future checks.

Using Third-Party Background Check Sites

Many websites claim to offer fast criminal history check Virginia reports. Most pull data from public sources and charge $30–$50. These are not official. They may miss recent updates or include errors. For legal use, always get the state-issued report. Free sites often sell your data or show ads. Avoid them. The only trusted sources are the VSP, Virginia Courts, and DCJS.

Employment and Housing Background Checks

Employers in Virginia can ask for a criminal history check Virginia if you agree in writing. They must follow federal laws like the Fair Credit Reporting Act. They cannot discriminate based on race or disability. Landlords may run checks but must treat all applicants the same. They cannot reject someone solely for a past crime unless it relates to safety. Always ask what the policy is before applying.

Volunteer and Nonprofit Screening

Organizations that work with children or seniors often require a criminal history check Virginia. This is usually a state-level check, not federal. The group must get your signed consent. Some nonprofits pay the fee for volunteers. Keep a copy of your report for future use. It is valid for 90 days.

Military and Federal Jobs

Federal agencies use a different system called FBI fingerprint checks. A Virginia state report is not enough. You must go through the FBI’s Identity History Summary Request. This takes longer and costs more. Start early if applying for federal work.

Schools and Teacher Licensing

Virginia requires all school employees to pass a criminal history check Virginia. This includes teachers, aides, and bus drivers. The check is done by the Department of Education. They look for crimes against children or violence. Even old convictions may affect hiring. Report any charges to your employer right away.

Healthcare Workers and Licenses

Nurses, doctors, and therapists must pass a criminal history check Virginia for licensing. The Board of Health Professions reviews each case. Crimes like fraud or patient abuse are red flags. You must disclose all convictions on your application. Lying can lead to permanent denial.

Contractors and Trade Licenses

The DPOR runs background checks for contractors. A criminal history check Virginia is part of the license process. Theft, fraud, or violence may delay approval. You can explain your situation in writing. The board decides based on risk to the public.

Law Enforcement and Security Jobs

Police departments and security firms run strict checks. A criminal history check Virginia is required. Any felony conviction blocks employment. Some misdemeanors may be waived. Agencies also check driving records and credit. Be honest on your application.

Adoption and Foster Care

Families who want to adopt or foster must pass a criminal history check Virginia. This includes all adults in the home. The Department of Social Services reviews the report. Crimes against children are automatic disqualifiers. Other offenses are judged case by case.

Immigration and Visa Applications

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services may ask for a criminal history check Virginia. This is separate from federal checks. Submit the state report with your forms. Delays happen if the record is unclear. Work with an immigration lawyer.

Travel and International Background Checks

Some countries require a clean criminal record for visas. A Virginia state report may not be enough. You might need an FBI check too. Check the embassy’s rules before applying.

Common Questions About Processing Times

People often ask why the criminal history check Virginia takes 15 days. The VSP must verify fingerprints through IAFIS, search state databases, and match names. This takes time. They do not skip steps. Calling daily does not help. Wait the full time before following up.

What If My Report Is Lost

If your criminal history check Virginia report does not arrive, call (804) 674-2131. Have your tracking number ready. The VSP can resend it if lost in mail. You may need to pay again for a new copy. Use certified mail for your request to prove delivery.

How to Protect Your Privacy

Only give your information to trusted sources. Do not post your SP-167 form online. Shred old reports. Use strong passwords on the VSP portal. Report suspicious sites to the state police.

Final Tips for a Smooth Process

Start early. Gather all documents before mailing. Double-check names and dates. Use black ink on forms. Keep copies of everything. Follow up after 15 days. Stay calm and patient.

Official Contact Information

Virginia State Police
Civil & Applicants Records Exchange
P.O. Box 85076
Richmond, VA 23285
Phone: (804) 674-2131
Website: https://vsp.virginia.gov/services/criminal-background/
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM (Eastern Time)
Closed on state holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions about how to get a criminal history check Virginia. Below are the most common ones with clear, direct answers based on current state rules and procedures. These cover timing, costs, corrections, and legal use. Each answer is written to help you act quickly and correctly.

Can I get my criminal history check Virginia online in one day?

No. The Virginia State Police does not offer same-day or next-day service. Both online and mail requests take about 15 business days after the agency receives your complete packet. This includes fingerprint verification through IAFIS. Third-party sites that promise faster results are not using the official state system. They may provide outdated or incomplete data. For legal purposes like jobs or licenses, only the state-issued report is valid. Plan ahead and submit your request early. Calling the VSP will not speed up the process. The 15-day window is standard and applies to everyone.

What happens if I have a mistake on my criminal history check Virginia report?

If your report shows incorrect information, the Virginia State Police cannot fix it. They only report what the courts send them. To correct an error, you must contact the court where the case was handled. File a motion to amend the record with the clerk’s office. Bring proof such as a dismissal order, pardon, or sentencing document. Once the court updates its system, the VSP will reflect the change in future reports. This can take 30 to 60 days. Keep copies of all court filings. Do not try to fix it through the police—only the court has the authority to change case records.

Can an employer deny me a job based on my criminal history check Virginia?

Yes, but with limits. Employers can use the report to make hiring decisions if you gave written consent. They must follow federal laws like the Fair Credit Reporting Act. They cannot discriminate based on race, gender, or disability. Virginia law also requires that the crime be related to the job. For example, a theft conviction may affect a cashier role but not a landscaping job. Employers should consider how long ago the crime occurred and if you’ve shown rehabilitation. Always ask about their policy before applying.

Do I need a criminal history check Virginia for a volunteer job?

It depends on the organization. Groups that work with children, seniors, or vulnerable adults often require it. Schools, churches, and nonprofits may ask for your consent to run a check. The fee is sometimes paid by the organization. The report must be recent—usually within 90 days. If you already have one, ask if it can be reused. Always sign a consent form before they proceed. This protects both you and the group.

Is a criminal history check Virginia the same as an FBI background check?

No. A Virginia state check only shows records from Virginia courts and agencies. An FBI check covers the entire country and includes federal crimes. Some jobs, like federal positions or teaching in certain districts, require both. The FBI process is separate and takes longer. You must go to an approved fingerprint location and pay a higher fee. For most state-level jobs, the Virginia report is enough. Check the employer’s requirements before starting.

Can I seal or expunge my record after a criminal history check Virginia shows a conviction?

Possibly. Virginia allows expungement for cases that were dismissed, acquitted, or resulted in no conviction. Some misdemeanors may be eligible after seven years. Felonies are rarely expunged. Sealing hides the record from public view but not from police. Only a judge can approve either action. You must file a petition in the circuit court where the case was heard. Fees apply. If granted, the VSP will remove or hide the record on future checks. Start by talking to a lawyer or legal aid group.

Why does the criminal history check Virginia take 15 days?

The 15-business-day timeline allows the Virginia State Police to verify your fingerprints through the national IAFIS system, match your identity, search state databases, and generate an accurate report. Each step is manual and requires review. The agency does not skip steps to speed things up. Mail delivery adds extra time. Online submissions are processed faster upon receipt but still need the full verification cycle. This ensures the report is correct and complete. Rushing could lead to errors. The time frame is fixed and applies to all requests equally.