Nassau County criminal history records show arrest data, court cases, and final outcomes for people in this Northeast Florida region. These public records are kept by the Nassau County Clerk of Court in Yulee.
They cover misdemeanor and felony cases filed in the county. Anyone can request these records for legal, personal, or job-related reasons. This page explains how to search, what the records contain, and where to get certified copies in 2026.
What Nassau County Criminal History Records Include
Criminal history records in Nassau County are public files that show the full path of a criminal case. They begin with the arrest and end with the court’s final decision. The records are stored at the courthouse and online through the Clerk’s website. Each file gives a clear picture of what happened, what charges were filed, and how the case ended.
Arrest Records and Booking Data
Arrest records show when a person was taken into custody by police. They include the arrest date, the agency that made the arrest, and the charges at the time of booking. The booking process also collects fingerprints, a photo (called a mugshot), and personal details like height, weight, and date of birth. These details help identify the person and link the arrest to other cases in the system.
Court Disposition Details
Court disposition records show what happened after charges were filed. A disposition is the final outcome of a case. It can be a guilty plea, a not guilty verdict, a dismissal, or a deferred sentence. This part of the file is critical for background checks as it shows whether the person was convicted. Without a disposition, a record only shows an arrest, not a conviction.
Misdemeanor and Felony Case Files
Nassau County handles both misdemeanor and felony cases. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes, like petty theft or simple assault. Felonies are more serious, like burglary or drug trafficking. Felony cases go through the Fourth Judicial Circuit Court. Misdemeanors are often handled in County Court. The Clerk’s office keeps separate files for each, and both are open to the public.
How to Request Nassau County Criminal History Records
There are three main ways to request criminal history records in Nassau County. You can go to the Clerk’s office in person, use the online portal, or send a mail request. Each way works for different needs. The fastest choice for most people is the online search, but certified copies often require a visit or mail request.
In-Person Requests at the Clerk of Court
Visiting the Nassau County Clerk of Court is the best way to get help with your search. The office is located at 76347 Veterans Way, Yulee, FL 32097. Staff can help you locate specific cases if you bring a full name and date of birth. You can also bring a case number if you have one. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. You will need a photo ID to access certain sealed records.
Online Records Search Portal
The Clerk’s website, nassauclerk.com, offers a free search tool for public records. You can search by name or case number from any device. The online system shows basic case data, including charges, court dates, and final outcomes. It does not issue certified copies. For a certified copy, you must request one through the site or visit the office in person.
Mail-In Record Requests
Mail requests work for people who cannot visit the office. Send a written request to the Clerk’s office with the full name, date of birth, and any known case numbers. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check or money order for any fees. The office usually handles mail requests within 5 to 7 business days. This way is best for non-urgent needs.
FDLE Statewide Criminal History Search
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) runs the state’s central criminal database. This database covers all 67 Florida counties, including Nassau. A statewide search is useful when you need records that go beyond county lines. The FDLE offers both instant online checks and certified mail-in checks. Their website is fdle.state.fl.us, and the main portal for public searches is cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us.
Certified vs Non-Certified Search Results
FDLE offers two types of search results. Non-certified results are available instantly online through the CCHInet portal. These show if a person has a Florida criminal record. They cost $24 plus a small processing fee. Certified results are official documents with a state seal. They take 5 to 7 business days and cost $24 as well. Most employers and immigration offices require certified results for legal use.
FDLE Fees and Processing Times for 2026
The cost for a Florida criminal history check through FDLE has stayed the same for several years. As of 2026, the fee is $24 per name search. Online results are instant. Mail-in certified results take about one week. Fingerprint-based checks through Live Scan also cost $24 plus a vendor fee. The vendor fee depends on the location but is usually between $5 and $15 per scan.
What the Statewide Database Covers
The FDLE database only shows Florida arrests and convictions. It does not include federal charges, out-of-state records, or sealed or expunged cases. If a person lived in another state, you will need to check that state’s database. The statewide search covers all Florida counties, including Miami-Dade, Orange County, and Hillsborough County. It is the most complete Florida-only check available to the public.
Florida Criminal History Check Types
Florida offers three main types of criminal history checks. Each one serves a different purpose. Name searches are fast and cheap. Fingerprint checks are the most accurate. Date of birth searches help narrow down results when names are common. Most employers use a combination of these checks for a full background picture.
Name-Based Criminal History Search
A name-based search uses a person’s full legal name to look for Florida arrest records. It is the most common way for personal use. You can do it online through the FDLE portal or through the county Clerk’s website. Name searches are not perfect. Common names can return many results. You will need a date of birth to confirm you have the right person before relying on the match.
Fingerprint-Based Background Check
Fingerprint checks are the gold standard for background checks. They match a person’s prints to the FDLE database and the FBI database. This way confirms identity with 100% accuracy. You must go to a Live Scan location to get fingerprinted. These are found at police stations, sheriff’s offices, and private vendors across Florida. Results take 1 to 3 business days after the prints are submitted.
Date of Birth and Identifying Details
A date of birth is critical for an accurate criminal history search. Many people share the same name. Adding a date of birth helps the system locate the right person. Some online portals ask for a driver’s license number or Social Security number for extra accuracy. The more details you provide, the fewer false results you will see in the report.
| Search Type | Best For | Accuracy | Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Name-Based | Personal use, quick checks | Moderate | $24 (FDLE) | Instant online |
| Fingerprint (Live Scan) | Employment, licensing | Very High | $24 + vendor fee | 1 to 3 business days |
| Date of Birth + Name | Confirming identity | High when combined | Same as name search | Instant online |
| County Clerk Search | Local Nassau records only | High for local cases | $1 to $10 per record | Instant to 7 days |
Third-Party Background Check Services
Third-party services offer criminal history searches for a fee. These companies pull data from public records across the U.S. They are useful for employers who need quick, multi-state background checks. Examples include TruthFinder, BeenVerified, and similar services. These are not the same as official FDLE or FBI checks, and they may include data from outside Florida.
Differences Between Official and Third-Party Records
Official records come from government databases like FDLE and the FBI. They are the only records accepted for legal, immigration, and government jobs. Third-party records are pulled from public sources, county courts, and commercial databases. They are often faster but less accurate. They can include sealed records by mistake, which can cause legal issues for the person being checked.
When Third-Party Services Are Useful
Third-party checks are good for personal research, dating background checks, and small business hiring. They pull data from all 50 states, which official checks do not. They often show traffic violations, bankruptcies, and address history. For high-stakes jobs or legal matters, always use the official FDLE or FBI channel to avoid errors.
Sealed and Expunged Records in Florida
Florida lets people seal or expunge certain criminal records. A sealed record is hidden from the public but can be reopened by a court order. An expunged record is physically destroyed by the court. Both types of records will not show up in a standard criminal history search. This applies to FDLE searches, county searches, and most third-party checks.
How Record Sealing Works in Florida
To seal a record in Florida, you must file a petition with the court where the case was handled. You must meet strict eligibility rules. Most people who got a withhold of adjudication can apply. The timeline is several months and requires a background check as part of the petition. Once sealed, the record is not visible to the public or employers.
Expungement Steps and Rules
Expungement is only allowed once in a person’s lifetime in Florida. The court physically destroys the physical record. After expungement, you can legally say you were never arrested for that crime. The steps are similar to sealing but have tighter rules. You cannot expunge serious felonies, sexual offenses, or certain other crimes under Florida law.
Florida Public Criminal Records Laws
Florida’s public records law is one of the strongest in the country. It is based on Florida Statute Chapter 119. This law says that all government records are open to the public unless a law says otherwise. Criminal history records fall under this rule, with some limits for privacy. The same law created the FDLE public records system used today.
Florida Statute 943.053 Explained
Florida Statute 943.053 controls how criminal history data is shared. It created the FDLE Computerized Criminal History (CCH) system. This law says who can get records, what they cost, and what stays private. It requires that records be kept accurate. If a record is wrong, you can challenge it through the FDLE record review steps.
Public Access Rights for Criminal Records
Under Florida law, anyone can request criminal history records. You do not need to be a lawyer or a citizen. You must provide the correct name and date of birth. You must pay the required fee. Some records are not public, like juvenile records, sealed cases, and expunged records. These are protected by other parts of Florida law.
Common Uses for Criminal History Reports
People request criminal history reports for many reasons. The most common reason is a job application. Landlords also use them for rental applications. Some people request their own record to check for errors. Others need them for adoption, immigration, or professional licensing. Each use case has its own rules about which type of report is needed.
Employment Background Checks in Florida
Florida employers often run background checks before hiring. This is common in healthcare, education, finance, and child care. Some jobs require a Level 2 background check, which includes fingerprinting. Other jobs only need a name-based check. Employers must follow the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) when using third-party services for hiring decisions.
Housing and Rental Applications
Landlords in Florida can request a criminal history check as part of a rental application. They must follow both federal and state fair housing laws. A criminal record alone cannot be the reason to deny housing. The landlord must show a direct link between the record and a risk to other tenants or property. Blanket bans on people with records are not allowed.
Personal Research and Self-Checks
Many people request their own criminal record each year. This helps them spot errors and correct mistakes. It helps them see what employers or landlords might see. You can request your own FDLE record at any time. The cost is $24, and the steps are the same as an employer check. Self-checks are a smart move for anyone with past arrests.
Nassau County Clerk Contact and Location
The Nassau County Clerk of Court is the official source for local criminal records. The office is open during regular business hours and offers in-person, online, and mail services. Use the contact details below to reach the Clerk’s office for questions or to start a records search. The office handles marriage licenses, property records, and court filings.
| Office | Nassau County Clerk of Court |
|---|---|
| Address | 76347 Veterans Way, Yulee, FL 32097 |
| Phone | (904) 548-4600 |
| Website | nassauclerk.com |
| Office Hours | Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. |
| FDLE Statewide | fdle.state.fl.us |
| FDLE Public Portal | cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us |
View the Nassau County Clerk of Court on Google Maps: 76347 Veterans Way, Yulee, FL 32097
Frequently Asked Questions About Nassau County Criminal History
Below are answers to common questions about Nassau County criminal history records. These cover costs, processing times, certified copies, and what shows up on a Florida background check. Each answer is based on current 2026 FDLE and Clerk of Court rules. The data below is sourced from official FDLE and Florida court records.
How long does it take to get a Nassau County criminal history record?
The time depends on how you request it. An online search through the Nassau Clerk’s website gives instant results from any device with internet access. A mail request takes 5 to 7 business days from the date the office receives your written request. A certified FDLE record through the mail takes about one week from receipt. A fingerprint-based check through Live Scan takes 1 to 3 business days after the prints are scanned at a vendor location. For fastest service, use the online portal at nassauclerk.com to search public cases. For certified copies with the court seal, visit the Clerk in person or send a mail request with the required fee and a self-addressed stamped envelope. The Clerk’s office handles requests in the order they are received each business day. Delays can happen during court holidays, major weather events, or high-volume periods like tax season. Plan ahead for time-sensitive needs like job offers, court deadlines, or travel visa applications. Call (904) 548-4600 to check on a pending request after the expected processing window has passed.
How much does a Florida criminal history check cost in 2026?
The cost is $24 for a name-based search through the FDLE in 2026. This fee has stayed the same since 2018. Online instant results cost $24 plus a small credit card processing fee of about $1.50. Certified copies cost $24 each from FDLE. Fingerprint-based checks cost $24 plus a Live Scan vendor fee of $5 to $15, depending on the location. County Clerk searches for local records cost between $1 and $10 per record copy, plus a small copy fee per page. Third-party services charge between $20 and $100 depending on the depth of the search and how many states are included. Employer checks through FCRA-compliant vendors can cost $30 to $50 per person screened. Some nonprofit groups and government programs offer free background checks for specific purposes like volunteer screening for schools or youth groups. The fee for a Florida criminal record can be paid by credit card, debit card, check, or money order depending on the agency. Always check the latest fee schedule on the FDLE website before requesting a record, as prices can change without notice.
Will a sealed or expunged record show up on my FDLE report?
No. Sealed and expunged records are removed from public search results under Florida law. FDLE will not show them in a name-based search. They are not visible to employers, landlords, or most background check services. Only law enforcement agencies and certain courts can see sealed records as part of a criminal investigation. If a record was expunged, it was physically destroyed by the court. You can legally say you were never arrested for that case in most situations. Sealing a record does not destroy the file, but it does hide it from public view. There are a few important exceptions. If you apply for certain professional licenses in healthcare, law, education, or child care, the sealed record may still be reviewed by the licensing board. Federal background checks for firearms, immigration, or federal employment can also see sealed records in some cases. If you are unsure whether your record was sealed or expunged, you can request a copy of your own FDLE record for $24. The report will show only what is still public. Contact the Clerk of Court in the county where the case was handled to confirm the exact status of your record and any pending petitions.
Can I request someone else’s criminal record in Florida?
Yes. Florida is a public records state. Anyone can request another person’s criminal history as long as the record is not sealed, expunged, or part of a juvenile case. You must provide the person’s full legal name and date of birth to the FDLE or the local Clerk of Court. You must pay the $24 fee for an FDLE check, plus any vendor processing fees. Some employers use this for background checks on job applicants, especially in fields that work with children, seniors, or money. Landlords and volunteer organizations use it to screen applicants. Private investigators, attorneys, and journalists request records as part of their professional work. Using someone’s record for illegal purposes, like discrimination in housing, employment, or public accommodation, can lead to lawsuits under federal and state law. The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) sets strict rules for how employers must use background check data and what notice they must give the applicant. Florida law also has rules about how old arrest records can be used for certain types of jobs, especially those that do not pay a salary. You can always request your own record to see what is on file before someone else does. The self-check costs the same $24 fee and follows the same steps as any other request.
What is the difference between an arrest record and a conviction record?
An arrest record shows that police took someone into custody for a suspected crime. It does not mean the person was found guilty of any charge. A conviction record means a court found the person guilty or the person pleaded guilty or no contest to a charge. Employers and landlords usually care more about convictions than arrests. An arrest without a conviction can sometimes still be used in hiring decisions in Florida, but there are rules about how this can be done. The EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) says employers cannot use arrest records alone to make hiring decisions because they may show a bias against certain groups. Most consumer background checks show both arrests and convictions. The disposition section of the record tells you the final outcome. It will show if the case ended in a conviction, a dismissal, an acquittal, a deferred sentence, or a withhold of adjudication. A withhold of adjudication is not a conviction under Florida law, but it can still be reported on some background checks. Always read the full record, not just the charge list, to understand the actual outcome of a case. If a record shows an arrest but no disposition, the case may still be open or pending in court.
Do Florida criminal records include out-of-state arrests?
No. The FDLE database only covers Florida arrests and convictions that happened within the state borders. If a person was arrested in another state, that record will not show up in an FDLE search by name or fingerprint. You would need to check that state’s repository or court records directly to get the full picture. Some third-party services pull data from all 50 states for a fee, but they are not always accurate and can include old or sealed records by mistake. For a complete U.S. background check, use the FBI’s Identity History Summary, also called an FBI rap sheet. It costs $18 and covers all federal and state arrests that were reported to the FBI by local law enforcement agencies. The FBI check is the most complete single-source check for U.S. criminal records across all states. For jobs that require a federal-level check, like government positions, military service, or firearms sales, the FBI check is required by law. The FDLE and FBI checks are not the same record. Many people do both to make sure they have the full picture of their own history. Errors in criminal records are more common than most people think, so a self-check once a year is a smart move.
How do I correct an error on my Florida criminal record?
You can challenge a record through the FDLE record review steps. File a written request with FDLE that explains the specific error on your record. Include proof of the error, like certified court documents showing a dismissal, an acquittal, a nolle prosequi, or a corrected disposition from the original judge. FDLE will review the case and update the database if the error is real and supported by court records. The timeline is 30 to 60 days from the date FDLE receives your complete request with all supporting documents. Working with a Florida attorney who focuses on record correction is a good choice for serious errors, like wrong convictions listed on your record, or for cases where the court records are old or hard to locate. There is no fee to file a record challenge with FDLE, but you may need to pay a small fee to get certified copies of court records for your evidence. Always check your own record once a year to catch mistakes early. You can request a copy through the FDLE online portal for $24 plus a small processing fee. If the error is not corrected after the FDLE review, you can appeal the decision through the FDLE hearings steps or ask the court that handled the original case to issue a court order correcting the record. Once the court order is signed, FDLE must update its database to match.
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