St Johns County criminal history records are official documents that show arrests, charges, court rulings, and final case outcomes for cases filed inside the county. These records sit in the files of the St.
Johns County Clerk of Court in St. Augustine, Florida. The Clerk’s office connects those local files to the statewide database run by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). People request these records for jobs, licenses, immigration, adoption, housing, gun permits, and personal review. This page shows the exact search steps, fees, processing times, and contact details that work in 2026 for anyone who needs a St Johns County criminal history record.
What St Johns County Criminal History Records Contain
A St Johns County criminal history record is a written summary of one person’s contact with the criminal justice system inside the county. Each record holds the person’s full name, date of birth, race, sex, and a list of every arrest, charge, and court action tied to that person in St. Johns County. The Clerk of Court stores the full court file. The Clerk also sends final outcomes to FDLE so the statewide database stays current.
Core Data Fields Found in Each Record
Each record has standard data fields set by Florida law. The fields help employers, licensing boards, and police agencies verify identity and check for past arrests.
- Full legal name and any aliases
- Date of birth and sex
- Race and identifying features
- Fingerprint-based identifier (when fingerprint check was done)
- Date of each arrest
- Charge description and statute number
- Court of record and case number
- Final disposition (guilty, not guilty, dismissed, adjudication withheld, nolo contendere, nol pros)
- Sentence details, covering probation, jail, prison, or fine
- Current status (open, closed, sealed, expunged)
Who Stores and Updates the Records
Three agencies work together to keep the records accurate. The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office files the arrest reports. The Clerk of Court files the charging documents, motions, court minutes, and final judgments. FDLE combines all county data into one statewide database that police agencies across Florida can read. Updates happen each time a new arrest, plea, or court ruling takes place.
How to Search St Johns County Criminal History Records Online
The fastest way to search St Johns County criminal history records is through the Clerk of Court’s online portal. The portal runs on the official website at st.johnsclerk.org. The portal gives free basic case lookups. Paid fees apply for certified copies and full document downloads. The portal updates daily as new court actions are filed.
Using the Clerk of Court Public Records Search
The public records search lets a user look up cases by name, case number, or citation number. A name search returns a list of matching cases with the person’s name, date of birth, case number, charge level, and current status. Clicking a case opens a docket page with hearing dates, party names, and a short ruling history. The search covers both criminal and traffic cases filed in St. Johns County.
Records Available and Limits on the Online Portal
The online portal shows case headers, hearing dates, party names, charges, and final dispositions. It does not show full arrest reports, sealed records, expunged records, or juvenile records. Records that are sealed under Florida Statute 943.059 or expunged under 943.058 are removed from public view. Requests for those records need a court order or a valid authorization from the subject of the record.
In-Person and Mail Requests for St Johns County Criminal History
Some searches need more detail than the online portal offers. For those cases, the St. Johns County Clerk of Court accepts in-person and mail-in requests. In-person visits help when a user needs staff help locating the right file. Mail-in requests help when a user lives out of state or cannot travel to St. Augustine.
Visiting the St Johns County Clerk of Court Office
The main Clerk of Court office sits at 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084. Office hours run Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The office closes on weekends and on Florida state holidays. Users should bring a valid photo ID, the full legal name of the subject, the date of birth, and any case number they already have. Counter staff can pull the file, copy documents, and certify copies on the spot for an extra fee.
Steps to File a Mail-In Record Request
Mail-in requests work for users who cannot visit the office. A written request must cover the subject’s full name, date of birth, last known address, and the reason for the request. The request should ask for specific documents, such as a full case file, certified copies, or a final disposition letter. A self-addressed stamped envelope and a check or money order for the fee must be enclosed. Mail handling takes seven to ten business days in 2026.
FDLE Statewide Florida Criminal History Search
A statewide search pulls data from all 67 Florida counties, covering St Johns County and every other county in the state. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement runs the Computerized Criminal History (CCH) system. The CCH system gathers arrest data, court rulings, and corrections records from every county clerk, sheriff, and state attorney. Statewide searches help when a person has lived or worked in more than one Florida county.
Name-Based Search Through the CCHInet Portal
The CCHInet portal at cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us lets users run a name-based criminal history search. A name search needs the subject’s full legal name, date of birth, and sex. The search runs against the CCH database. Results arrive within seconds for an instant search. Instant name-based search fees are $24 plus a small transaction fee in 2026. Results show arrests, charges, dispositions, and current status.
Fingerprint-Based Certified Records From FDLE
Fingerprint-based checks give a higher match accuracy. The check uses LiveScan machines or ink fingerprint cards taken at a local police office or FDLE-approved vendor. Fingerprints are sent to FDLE for matching against the CCH database. Certified results return in five to seven business days. Many licensing boards, government agencies, and immigration filings require fingerprint-based certified records, not name-based ones.
FDLE Fees, Turnaround Times, and Approved Channelers
FDLE charges a fee for each record request. The fee schedule in 2026 sets name-based searches at $24 plus vendor fees. Fingerprint-based certified records cost $24 plus a $10 fingerprint retention fee. Turnaround times vary by method. Instant searches return within minutes. Mailed fingerprint cards take five to seven business days. Approved channelers are private vendors FDLE has vetted to take LiveScan prints, submit fingerprints, and deliver certified results faster than mail-in requests.
Criminal History Record Sealing and Expungement in St Johns County
Florida law lets some people hide old criminal records from public view. Two legal paths exist: sealing under Florida Statute 943.059 and expungement under 943.058. A sealed record stays in the database but the public cannot see it. An expunged record is destroyed in the public database. Police agencies, courts, and certain licensing agencies can still see both.
Who Qualifies for a Seal or Expungement
Most people who had a case dismissed, a nol pros, a nolo contendere plea without adjudication, or a withheld adjudication can apply for a seal. A full expungement is only available in narrow cases. People with prior felony convictions, certain sex offenses, or pending charges cannot get a seal or expungement. Juvenile records have separate rules under Chapter 985 of Florida Statutes.
Steps to File a Sealing or Expungement Petition
The first step is to apply for a Certificate of Eligibility from FDLE. The application needs fingerprints, a sworn statement, and the fee. FDLE reviews the record and either grants or denies the certificate. After the certificate arrives, the petitioner files a petition with the St. Johns County Clerk of Court. A judge reviews the petition. The judge signs an order. The Clerk then seals or expunges the record per the judge’s order.
Background Checks for Jobs, Licenses, and Housing
Florida law and federal law require criminal history checks for many jobs and licenses. Florida Statute 435 covers screening for child care, health care, education, and government roles. The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs how employers and screening companies use criminal records. St Johns County records feed directly into both state and federal screening pipelines.
Common Uses for a Florida Criminal History Record
Criminal history records come up in many hiring and licensing decisions. The table below lists the most common requests seen in St Johns County and across Florida in 2026.
| Purpose | Record Type Needed | Standard Fee Range |
|---|---|---|
| General employment | FDLE name-based search | $24 plus vendor fee |
| Healthcare license | FDLE fingerprint-based certified record | $24 to $50 |
| Teacher certification | FDLE and FBI fingerprint check | $50 to $75 |
| Concealed weapons permit | FDLE name-based search | $24 plus vendor fee |
| Adoption home study | FDLE and FBI fingerprint check | $50 to $75 |
| Immigration filing | Certified FDLE record with apostille | $24 plus apostille fee |
| Volunteer with youth | FDLE name-based search | $24 plus vendor fee |
| Public housing | FDLE name-based search | $24 plus vendor fee |
FCRA Rules for Florida Employers
Employers in Florida must follow the FCRA when running criminal background checks. The FCRA requires written consent before a check. It requires a pre-adverse action notice if the employer plans to reject the applicant based on the record. It requires an adverse action notice with a copy of the report and a summary of rights. Florida law adds state-level protections under the Florida Civil Rights Act and the Ban the Box statutes.
Fees, Certified Copies, and Apostille Requests for St Johns County Records
Clerk of Court fees in St Johns County follow a standard Florida fee schedule. Certified copies cost more than plain copies. Apostille services require extra steps through the Florida Department of State. Users should plan fees ahead of time to avoid delays.
Standard 2026 Fee Schedule for St Johns County Records
The Clerk of Court charges the following fees for common record services in 2026. Fees may change with state law updates.
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Online case search | Free |
| Plain printed copy, per page | $1.00 |
| Certified copy, per document | $2.00 to $5.00 |
| Full case file copy | Varies by file size |
| Notarized copy | $5.00 plus copy fee |
| Mail-in search fee | $2.00 plus copy fees |
| Rush handling, when available | Extra fee applies |
How to Get an Apostille for Out-of-Country Use
Records used outside the United States often need an apostille under the Hague Convention. The Florida Department of State handles apostille requests in Tallahassee. The user submits a certified copy of the criminal history record, a cover letter, and the apostille fee. Handling takes five to ten business days in 2026. Some private expediting services can shorten the wait for an extra fee.
How to Challenge or Correct an Inaccurate St Johns County Record
Errors in criminal history records can hurt jobs, housing, and licenses. Florida law gives people the right to challenge records they believe are wrong. The challenge procedure works through FDLE for statewide database errors and through the Clerk of Court for local file errors.
FDLE Record Challenge Procedure
A person who sees wrong data in an FDLE record can file a Record Challenge form. The form is on the FDLE website. The form needs the wrong record details, the correct details, and proof of the error. Common proof items cover certified court orders, dispositions, and certified copies of identity documents. FDLE reviews the challenge within 30 days. FDLE updates or rejects the request in writing.
Court Records Correction Path
Errors inside the court file need a court order to fix. The person files a motion to correct the record with the Clerk of Court. The motion names the wrong entry, the correct entry, and the proof. A judge reviews the motion and signs an order to fix the file. The Clerk then updates the file and sends the update to FDLE.
FBI Checks, Federal Records, and Out-of-State Searches
FDLE only covers Florida records. Federal arrests, military convictions, and crimes from other states do not show in a Florida search. Users who need full coverage must add an FBI check or an out-of-state search to their request.
FBI Identity History Summary Check
The FBI runs the national Identity History Summary check, also called an FBI rap sheet. Users can request an FBI check through the FBI website at identity.fbi.gov or through an FBI-approved channeler. The check costs $18 in 2026. Fingerprints are required. Electronic results arrive within 24 hours in most cases. Paper results take seven to ten business days.
NCIC Triple-I and Federal Court Records
The National Crime Information Center (NCIC) holds federal and interstate criminal data. NCIC Triple-I searches cover arrests, convictions, and outstanding warrants across the U.S. Federal court PACER records cover federal cases. Users can run a PACER search at pacer.uscourts.gov for $0.10 per page. Federal court records help when a person has faced federal charges in addition to state charges.
Contact Details and Office Locations for St Johns County Criminal History
Below are the key contact details for St Johns County criminal history records in 2026. These details cover the Clerk of Court, the Sheriff’s Office, FDLE, and the apostille office.
Clerk of Court Office Location
The St. Johns County Clerk of Court sits at 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084. The phone number is (904) 819-3600. The website is st.johnsclerk.org. Office hours run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. The office closes on weekends and on Florida state holidays.
Sheriff and FDLE Contact Points
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office sits at 4015 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084. The phone number is (904) 824-8304. The website is sjso.org. FDLE headquarters sits at 2331 Phillips Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308. The phone number is (850) 410-7000. The website is fdle.state.fl.us. The CCHInet portal for statewide name-based searches sits at cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us.
Visiting Hours and Driving Directions
Visiting hours at the St Johns County Clerk of Court run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. The office closes on weekends and on Florida state holidays. Directions from Interstate 95: take exit 318 for State Road 16 West. Follow Lewis Speedway for two miles. The Clerk’s office sits on the right past the Sheriff’s Office complex. Free parking is available on site.
| Office | Address | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| St Johns County Clerk of Court | 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084 | (904) 819-3600 | st.johnsclerk.org |
| St Johns County Sheriff’s Office | 4015 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084 | (904) 824-8304 | sjso.org |
| FDLE Headquarters | 2331 Phillips Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308 | (850) 410-7000 | fdle.state.fl.us |
| CCHInet Portal | Online only | n/a | cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us |
| Florida Department of State (Apostille) | R.A. Gray Building, 500 S. Bronough St., Tallahassee, FL 32399 | (850) 245-6500 | dos.fl.gov |
Frequently Asked Questions About St Johns County Criminal History
This FAQ section answers common questions users ask about St Johns County criminal history records. The questions cover searches, fees, sealing, and federal checks. The answers reflect Florida law and FDLE rules in 2026. Each answer gives a direct response with the steps needed to act.
How Long Does It Take to Get a St Johns County Criminal History Record?
Online case lookups through the Clerk of Court return results within minutes. FDLE name-based searches through CCHInet return results within minutes for instant searches. FDLE fingerprint-based certified records take five to seven business days. Mail-in requests to the Clerk of Court take seven to ten business days. Apostille requests through the Florida Department of State take five to ten business days. Rush services exist for an extra fee at both FDLE and the Clerk.
Can Anyone Request a St Johns County Criminal History Record?
Florida law makes most criminal history records public. Anyone can request them for most purposes. Employers, landlords, licensing boards, and government agencies request records as part of screening. Private citizens can request records about themselves or about other people. Some records, such as sealed records, expunged records, juvenile records, and certain victim records, are not open to the public without a court order.
What Is the Difference Between a Name-Based and a Fingerprint-Based Search?
A name-based search matches records by the subject’s name and date of birth. The search can miss records if the name is misspelled or if another person has the same name. A fingerprint-based search matches records by unique fingerprint patterns. Fingerprints are far more accurate. Licensing boards, immigration filings, and government jobs usually need fingerprint-based certified records.
Does a Sealed or Expunged Record Show Up in a Search?
Sealed records do not show up in public searches. Expunged records are removed from the public database. Both record types still exist in police files. Police agencies, courts, and certain licensing agencies can still see them. A person applying for a job that needs a fingerprint-based FBI check may still see the sealed record on the FBI report.
How Much Does a Certified Criminal History Record Cost in St Johns County?
A certified copy from the Clerk of Court costs between $2.00 and $5.00 per document in 2026. The fee depends on the type of document and the number of pages. An FDLE name-based search costs $24 plus a vendor fee. An FDLE fingerprint-based certified record costs $24 plus a $10 fingerprint retention fee. FBI checks cost $18 plus vendor fees. Apostille services cost extra through the Florida Department of State.
Can I Check My Own Criminal History Record in St Johns County?
Yes. Anyone can request their own record. Self-requests often need fingerprints for a certified copy. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement runs a self-check program. The Clerk of Court also lets a person pull their own case files. Self-checks help people spot errors before a job or housing application.
What Should I Do If My Record Shows Wrong Data?
File a Record Challenge with FDLE if the error is in the statewide database. File a motion to correct the record with the St Johns County Clerk of Court if the error is in the local court file. Common proof items cover certified court orders, dispositions, and identity documents. FDLE responds within 30 days. The court path takes longer and depends on the judge’s review. Fixing errors early prevents problems with jobs, licenses, and immigration filings.