New York Criminal Background Check Online
Verify New York criminal history information for employment, licensing, or personal review, including statewide arrest records and court case dispositions that may require fingerprint-based confirmation.
Page Sections:
Quick Answer
- Use the state criminal history portal for the primary statewide check.
- Expect an online request with identity verification; fingerprints may be required.
- For case-level documents or recent filings, continue with clerk of court lookup in the filing county.
Best Starting Point
Official Lookup Paths
| Official Path | Best For | First Action | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| State Criminal History Portal | Official statewide New York criminal history results. | Open the official state route and review the request method; submit the online request as instructed. | State-level criminal history record or notice of no record. |
| Fingerprint Submission Route | When identity confirmation is required or a name match is uncertain. | Review fingerprint instructions from the state agency and follow the submission steps provided. | Criminal history record tied to verified fingerprints. |
| Clerk of Court Case Lookup Follow-up | Docket details, dispositions, or certified copies from a specific case. | Use the clerk’s case lookup for the filing court and locate the case by name or case number. | Case docket information and directions for obtaining certified documents. |
| Local Police Records Request Route | Local incident or arrest reports not included in court files. | Submit a records request to the local police department where the incident occurred. | Local incident report or confirmation of availability and how to obtain it. |
When Statewide Is Not Enough
- You need certified copies, sentencing orders, or docket images from a specific case.
- A recent arrest or disposition has not yet posted to the statewide record.
- A name match is uncertain and you must verify identity or confirm details at the filing court.
Search Flow
Micro FAQ
Is New York's statewide check name-based or fingerprint-based?
The official criminal history is commonly fingerprint-based for identity accuracy; name-based court lookups exist but do not substitute for the statewide record.
What if the statewide search shows a possible match with my name?
Proceed with the fingerprint submission route or follow agency instructions to confirm identity before relying on the result.
Where do I get certified copies of a case?
Request certification from the clerk of the filing court; use clerk of court case lookup to identify the case and location first.
Do I still need county checks after a statewide result?
Yes, when you need case documents, the latest docket updates, or to verify details that the statewide record does not include.