Criminal History Records
Search Florida Criminal History Records through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), which runs the state Computerized Criminal History (CCH) system. The FDLE stores over six million subject records and lets the public run a name-based search from any computer with internet access. The records include arrests, dispositions, and final court outcomes from every county in Florida. A Florida criminal history check costs $24.00 per search, plus a small credit card fee, and the system returns instant results online or a certified copy by mail within five to seven business days.
What Florida Criminal History Records Include
Florida criminal history records contain a full arrest and court history for one person. The records come from police departments, sheriff’s offices, state agencies, courts, and state attorneys across Florida. Each record links a name and date of birth to a fingerprint-based arrest, the charge filed, and the final outcome. The CCH system updates these records daily as new arrests and court decisions are added.
Personal Identifiers in the Record
Each criminal history record carries personal details that help identify the subject. A full name, date of birth, race, sex, and a physical description appear on the record. The system masks most of the Social Security Number and shows only the last four digits. Fingerprint images match each arrest to the person’s record so the data stays accurate.
Disposition Information
Disposition information shows what happened after every arrest. A disposition can be a conviction, a dismissal, a withhold of adjudication, a deferred judgment, or a no-file ruling. The CCH system stores the final court outcome from the clerk of court. The record lists the date of the disposition and the court that issued it.
Sealed and Expunged Record Markers
Sealed and expunged records do not appear in a public search. The FDLE stores a confidential marker that tells the system to hide the record. Only specific agencies can still see sealed records. Expunged records are destroyed except for a small confidential record kept by FDLE for limited access.
FDLE Criminal History Search Methods
The FDLE offers two ways to search criminal history records. Users can run an instant search themselves online. Users can also request a certified or non-certified search that FDLE staff runs. Both methods pull data from the same CCH database. The choice between them depends on whether you need a certified copy for legal use.
FDLE Civil Workflow Control System (Online Search)
The FDLE Civil Workflow Control System is the online portal that processes criminal history requests. You log in, enter the subject’s name and date of birth, pay the fee, and receive results. The same system routes certified requests to FDLE staff for processing. The portal handles all online criminal history record request flow.
Instant Search vs Certified Search
An instant search returns results on your screen within seconds. You can print the report or email it. A certified search adds a state seal that confirms the record is authentic. Certified copies meet legal requirements for immigration, adoption, and licensing. Non-certified copies are useful for personal review or quick checks.
Florida Criminal History Record Request Form (Online Submission)
The Florida criminal history record request form is built into the online portal. The form asks for the subject’s full legal name, date of birth, race, and sex. The form also asks the purpose of the search. After you submit the form and pay, FDLE processes the request based on the type you chose.
FDLE Criminal History Mail Request (Discontinued Path)
FDLE stopped accepting mail-in criminal history requests on July 1, 2020. All criminal history record requests now go through the online portal. Some agencies that used to mail requests on your behalf still offer live-scan fingerprint services. Fingerprint-based checks through those vendors can also feed into the same FDLE system.
What You Need Before You Start
Before you start a search, gather the right details about the subject. A search with complete details returns faster and matches the right person. The FDLE recommends entering at least the full name and date of birth. The more accurate the data, the cleaner the result.
Subject Identifying Information
The portal needs the subject’s full legal name. A middle name is helpful when searching. Add the date of birth, race, and sex to narrow the search. A Social Security Number helps confirm identity but is not required. The system uses these fields to match one record out of millions.
Florida Criminal Record by Date of Birth and Name
Searching by name and date of birth is the most common approach. The system uses the date of birth to filter out people with the same name. If two records share a name and date of birth, the system returns both for review. Each additional matching record adds another fee. Florida criminal history search criteria put the date of birth as the strongest filter.
Payment and Fees
Payment happens at the end of the search. The portal accepts credit cards and debit cards from major card networks. A small convenience fee is added to the base $24.00 charge. The total comes to $25.00 per search. The fee covers the search itself, not the result, so you pay even when no record is found.
How Florida Criminal History Records Are Created
Criminal history records in Florida begin with an arrest. The arresting agency fingerprints the person and uploads the arrest data to the CCH system. The state attorney files charges, and the clerk of court records the case. The court sends the final disposition back to FDLE. FDLE stores the complete record in the database.
Arrest Data from Law Enforcement Agencies
Every police department, sheriff’s office, and state law enforcement agency in Florida sends arrest data to FDLE. County agencies feed records into the system through secure electronic channels. The data includes the arrest date, the charge, and the booking facility. The CCH system holds fingerprint images linked to the arrest to prevent mix-ups.
Court Disposition Reporting
Court clerks across Florida send disposition data to FDLE after a case ends. The disposition shows whether the person was convicted, the case was dismissed, or adjudication was withheld. The clerk’s office sends the data through the Clerk of Court Reporting System. FDLE updates the criminal history record once the disposition arrives.
State Attorney Charging Data
The state attorney files the formal charge after the arrest. The filing becomes part of the criminal history record. The record reflects the original charge and any amended charge. This gives a full view of how the case moved through the justice system.
Step-by-Step Process to Search Florida Criminal History Records
The process to search Florida criminal history records runs through the FDLE portal. The steps are simple and work on any computer. Most searches finish in under ten minutes.
Create or Sign In to the FDLE Account
Open the FDLE online portal and create a free account. The account stores your search history and payment details. Returning users can sign in and skip the setup step. The account is required for both instant and certified searches.
Enter Search Criteria
Pick the type of search you want. Choose instant for fast results or certified for legal use. Enter the subject’s full name, date of birth, race, and sex. Review the data for accuracy before moving on. Typos in the name or date of birth can lead to wrong matches.
Pay the Fee
Confirm the request and pay the $25.00 fee. The fee pays for the search itself, not the result. FDLE charges the same fee whether the system finds one record or none. The total confirms before the search starts.
Receive and Download Results
Instant searches return results on the screen. Print the report or email it to yourself. Certified searches go to FDLE staff for processing. The staff returns a sealed copy by mail or email based on the option you picked. The certified copy carries a state seal and signature.
How Long Results Take
Florida criminal history processing time depends on the type of search. Instant results arrive in seconds. Certified searches need more time because FDLE staff runs the search by hand. The FDLE tracks a clear timeline for both types.
Instant Search Processing Time
An instant search finishes in a few seconds. The portal pulls the data as soon as payment clears. The screen displays the matching record or a no-match notice. You can print the page or send it to your email.
Certified Record Processing Time
Certified searches take six to seven business days. The FDLE reviewer runs the search, checks the data, and stamps the result. Non-certified staff searches take about five business days. The result arrives by mail or email based on the option you chose.
What to Do If Your Search Is Delayed
If your search takes longer than expected, contact FDLE Applicant Services. The line opens Monday through Friday during business hours. Have your order number ready so the staff can pull your record. Most delays come from high volume or missing data.
Understanding Disposition Information
The disposition shows the final outcome of a criminal case. The CCH system stores the disposition from the clerk of court. Disposition data is one of the most important parts of a criminal history record. The record is incomplete without a disposition for every arrest.
What Disposition Means on Your Record
A disposition tells the reader what the court decided. Common dispositions include conviction, dismissal, acquittal, adjudication withheld, and no file. The record shows the date of the disposition and the court that issued it. A clear disposition helps anyone reading the record see the full picture.
Missing Disposition Data
Some records have no disposition. This happens when the court has not reported the final outcome yet. A missing disposition is not the same as a dismissal. The record stays open until the court sends the data. FDLE updates the record as soon as the data arrives.
How to Correct Disposition Errors
Errors on a criminal history record can be fixed. The FDLE provides a record review process for people who see wrong data. The subject fills out a review form and sends it to FDLE. The FDLE checks the data with the court and updates the record when needed.
Florida Criminal History Record Fees and Payment Options
Florida criminal history record fees are set by state law. The fee covers the cost of running the search. The total is the same for every search, regardless of the result. Below is a breakdown of the fee structure.
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base Search Fee | $24.00 | Charged per subject searched |
| Credit Card Fee | $1.00 | Added to the base fee at checkout |
| Total Per Search | $25.00 | Same for instant, certified, or non-certified |
| Multiple Subjects | $25.00 each | Each additional match costs the same |
| No-Record Search | $25.00 | Fee still applies when no record is found |
Statewide Fee Structure
The statewide fee structure is the same across Florida. The fee pays for FDLE staff, the CCH system, and the records request process. The fee does not change based on the type of search or the county. The total is fixed at $25.00 per subject.
Credit Card Convenience Fee
The credit card convenience fee covers the cost of processing the payment. The fee is $1.00 per search. The fee is added to the $24.00 base charge. The total $25.00 appears at checkout before you confirm the search.
Additional Subject Fees
If the search returns more than one possible match, the system lists each subject. You pay $25.00 for each subject you want to review. The fee covers the cost of pulling and reviewing the record. Most name searches return one match when the date of birth is correct.
Sealed and Expunged Florida Criminal Records
Florida law lets people seal or expunge their criminal records under specific conditions. Sealing hides the record from public view. Expungement destroys the record except for a small confidential file. Both options follow strict rules set by Florida statute.
How Sealing Works
Sealing hides the record from the public. The record stays in the CCH system but the public cannot see it. Law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and certain employers can still see the record. The clerk of court seals the court file too. Sealing follows Florida Statute 943.0585.
How Expungement Works
Expungement goes further than sealing. The clerk of court destroys the court file. FDLE keeps a small confidential record that only certain agencies can see. The public cannot access the record. Expungement follows Florida Statute 943.059.
Who Can Still See Sealed Records
Law enforcement agencies can still see sealed records. The state attorney, defense attorneys, and judges can see them too. Certain licensing agencies can see sealed records for background checks. The court can order a sealed record to be opened for a specific case.
Florida Criminal History Information Act and Privacy Rules
Florida law sets strict rules for who can access criminal history records. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement runs the program under these laws. The rules protect privacy while still allowing public access.
Florida Statute 943.053
Florida Statute 943.053 creates the Criminal Justice Information Program. The law tells FDLE how to collect, store, and share criminal history records. The law allows public access to non-sealed, non-expunged records. The law requires FDLE to respond to requests within a set time.
Florida Statute 119.071(5)
Florida Statute 119.071(5) protects Social Security Numbers on criminal history records. The law limits the release of full SSNs. The record shows only the last four digits of the SSN. This rule applies to every public criminal history search.
Juvenile Record Restrictions
Juvenile criminal records have extra protections. Most juvenile records are not open to the public. The FDLE releases juvenile records only to specific agencies. Unsealed juvenile records can appear in a limited search.
Official Criminal History Record Certification
Some situations require a certified copy of a criminal history record. A certified copy carries the FDLE seal and signature. The certification confirms the record is original and accurate. The certification is required for legal and official use.
When You Need a Certified Copy
Certified copies are required for immigration, adoption, some licensing, and many federal jobs. Some employers ask for certified copies when running background checks. The certification assures the reader that the record comes from FDLE and has not been altered.
How Certification Works in Florida
FDLE staff runs the search and reviews the result. The staff member adds an official seal and signature to the record. The certified copy is mailed or emailed based on the request. The process takes six to seven business days.
Apostille and Out-of-State Use
Records used outside the United States may need an apostille. The Florida Department of State issues apostilles for FDLE records. The apostille verifies the signature and seal on the record. The apostille process adds extra time to the request.
Florida Criminal History Self-Check
The FDLE personal review program lets people check their own criminal history. The program is a free way to see what is on your record. The review helps people find errors before they apply for jobs or licensing.
FDLE Personal Review Program
The personal review program pulls your own criminal history record. The review shows the same data an employer would see. The review is free and runs through the FDLE portal. The review is the first step before requesting a correction.
How to Challenge Incorrect Records
Contact FDLE if you see wrong data on your record. The FDLE will check the data with the original court or agency. The FDLE updates the record after the check. The process can take several weeks to finish.
County and Local Criminal Background Check Options
County and local agencies also keep criminal records. These records cover the same arrests but only inside one county. A county search is useful for a deep dive into a specific area. FDLE remains the statewide source for a full Florida criminal history check.
County Clerk of Court Records
Each county clerk of court keeps case files. The clerk’s office handles criminal cases, civil cases, and traffic cases. The clerk’s office offers online search tools for public records. The clerk’s office can also provide certified copies of court documents.
County Sheriff’s Office Search
County sheriff’s offices keep arrest records. The sheriff’s office can tell you about recent arrests in the county. The sheriff’s office records feed into the FDLE CCH system. A search at the sheriff’s office covers only one county.
Contact Information for FDLE Criminal History Services
The FDLE has dedicated lines for criminal history services. The right contact depends on what you need. Most lines are open Monday through Friday during business hours.
Applicant Services Line
Call (850) 410-8161 for background checks and applicant questions. Email ApplicantChecks@fdle.state.fl.us for written questions. The line is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
Sealing and Expungement Section
Call (850) 410-7870 for sealing and expungement questions. Email SEinfo@fdle.state.fl.us for written questions. The section handles certificate of eligibility requests. The line is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
General FDLE Contact
Call (850) 410-7000 for general questions. Call (850) 410-7676 for public records requests. Email publicrecords@fdle.state.fl.us for public records. The mailing address is Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Post Office Box 1489, Tallahassee, FL 32302-1489.
Official Website: https://www.fdle.state.fl.us
Criminal History Records Page: https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/criminal-history-records/florida-checks
CCHInet Portal: https://cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us
Phone (Applicant Services): (850) 410-8161
Phone (Sealing/Expungement): (850) 410-7870
Phone (General): (850) 410-7000
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time
Florida Criminal History Records FAQ
These answers cover the most common questions about Florida criminal history records. The questions cover searches, fees, processing times, and record corrections. Each answer is based on current FDLE rules and Florida law.
Can I search Florida criminal history records for free?
No. The FDLE charges $24.00 per search plus a $1.00 credit card fee for a total of $25.00. The fee covers the cost of the search process. The fee is the same even when no record is found. The FDLE personal review program is the only free option, and it is limited to your own record.
How do I get a certified copy of a Florida criminal history record?
Request a certified copy through the FDLE portal. Choose the certified option when you start the search. FDLE staff runs the search and adds the official seal. The certified copy arrives by mail or email in six to seven business days. The certified copy meets legal requirements for most official uses.
What does a disposition mean on a Florida criminal record?
A disposition is the final outcome of a criminal case. The court records the disposition after the case ends. Common dispositions include conviction, dismissal, acquittal, and adjudication withheld. The disposition appears on the record with the date and the court that issued it.
How long does a Florida criminal history search take?
Instant searches finish in seconds. Non-certified staff searches take five business days. Certified searches take six to seven business days. Delays happen when the system is busy or the data is missing. Contact FDLE Applicant Services if your search takes longer than expected.
Can sealed or expunged records appear in a search?
No. Sealed and expunged records are hidden from public searches. The FDLE stores a confidential marker that hides the record. Only law enforcement, prosecutors, and certain employers can see sealed records. Expunged records are destroyed except for a small confidential file.
What information do I need to run a search?
You need the subject’s full legal name and date of birth. Race, sex, and a middle name help narrow the search. A Social Security Number is optional but helps confirm identity. The more accurate the data, the cleaner the result.
Can I search someone else’s record without their permission?
Yes. The FDLE allows public access to non-sealed, non-expunged records. You do not need the subject’s permission for a public search. The law requires you to use the record for a legal purpose. Some uses require the subject’s written consent under the Fair Credit Reporting Act.