When you reside outside the United States and require a Criminal Background check from the state of California, below is an overview of the steps you need to follow to request a background check, including gathering the necessary documents, obtaining fingerprints, and submitting the application.
Step 1: Visit the website of the California State Attorney General at oag.ca.gov/fingerprints/record-review to download the application form. Fill out the form with your personal details.
Step 2: Have your fingerprints taken on FD-258 fingerprint cards. Ensure that the following details are clearly filled out on the cards:
- Your full name as stated in your passport
- Date of birth
- Gender
- The address where you want to receive the results.
You can have your fingerprints taken at a local law enforcement agency for fingerprinting services or at an accredited fingerprinting agency.
Step 3: Gather all documents and include the payment of $25 with the documents. This payment can be made via a Money Order or a certified check.
- Application form
- Copy of passport and statement from fingerprint technician
- 2x FD-258 fingerprint cards with your fingerprints on them
- Money order/check
Step 4: Send all documents to the following address:
California Department of Justice
Bureau of Criminal Identification and Analysis
Record Review & Challenge Section
PO BOX 160207
Sacramento, CA 95816-0207
Step 5: Wait for the results. These will be sent to you by regular mail once processing is complete.
It is important to be patient during the process, as it may take some time before you receive the results.
