Note The library cannot tell you what the law means for your situation.

Where can I find criminal history records?

Besides looking at court records discussed on the Texas Court Records and Federal Court Records pages, you can also find information about a person's criminal history in specialized databases. They often include entries from publicly available court records and arrests.

This section lists several criminal history records databases, with a focus on Texas records. The Criminal History Records FAQs from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) answers many questions about criminal history checks.

Criminal Convictions

Criminal History Conviction Name Search (Texas Department of Public Safety)
This paid database includes information about arrests, prosecutions, and disposition of cases for individuals arrested for class B misdemeanor or greater. Class C convictions may sometimes be available. Only includes cases reported to DPS.

Violent Offenders

Violent Offender Database - Family Violence and Stalking (Texas Department of Public Safety)
This free database contains information provided to DPS regarding certain domestic violence offenders who on two or more occasions have been convicted of certain offenses like assault, sexual assault, and continuous domestic violence.

Sex Offenders

Texas Public Sex Offender Website (Texas Department of Public Safety)
This website allows you to search the registry, use the subscription service, and download the registry.

Child Abuse and Neglect History

DFPS Background Checks (Texas Department of Family and Protective Services)
Includes information for how the general public can submit a request for a background check with the Texas Child Abuse and Neglect Central Registry.

Current Incarcerations

Inmate Information Search (Texas Department of Criminal Justice)
Search for inmates currently incarcerated in a TDCJ facility.

FBI Rap Sheets

FBI Identity History Summary Checks (Rap Sheets)
For a fee, the Federal Bureau of Investigation can provide you with your Identity History Summary Check, known as a rap sheet.

Public Websites

Many private companies offer online background check services for a fee. They may include information about a person's criminal history, education, employment, traffic violations, and more.

Related Resources

Texas Employment: Criminal Background Check Laws (Nolo)
An article from legal self-help publisher Nolo discussing the "7 year rule" under state law, as well as some general protections for employees and applicants under federal law.
How can I get something removed from my criminal record?
Arrest records and other criminal records may sometimes be removed from the person’s criminal history or sealed from public view.
Juvenile Justice Records: Sealing and Restricted Access (TexasLawHelp.org)
This article provides information on access to, or expunction of, juvenile justice records in Texas.

Note The library cannot tell you what the law means for your situation.