How to Look Up Your Michigan Criminal Record

Anyone may request your criminal history. It's public information under the Freedom of Information Act. If you need a copy of your criminal history, the Michigan State Police allows online searches with or without fingerprints. Some criminal history searches require fingerprints by state law or are required for state licensing. All criminal history reports, including fingerprints and arrest information, are submitted electronically in all 83 Michigan counties.

Searches Requiring Fingerprints

• 1

  Complete the Live Scan application from your employer or licensing agency or download the Live Scan Fingerprint Request form from the Michigan Department of State. Live Scan is for public data requested from employers or licensing entities only.

• 2

  Schedule your appointment to be fingerprinted and pay the fee set by your chosen vendor. Don't forget to bring your picture identification and your completed Live Scan fingerprint application to the appointment. Allow seven to 45 days to receive the criminal history check.

• 3

  Request a Michigan Applicant Fingerprint Card (RI-8) from your local Michigan law enforcement agency if you are requesting your own public and non-public criminal history. Non-Michigan residents may request the FBI Applicant Fingerprint card (FD-258).

• 4

  Submit personal request forms and the $30 fee to the Michigan State Police (see Resources). Allow three to five weeks for delivery.

Searches Not Requiring Fingerprints

• 1

  Register your email, name and address at ICHAT.

• 2

  Click on "Search for Criminal History." Define how many searches you wish to complete.

• 3

  Type in your credit card information for approval. ICHAT accepts Visa or Mastercard, including debit, for the $10 fee per search (as of November 2010).

• 4

  Search for the required name, race, gender and date of birth.

• 5

  Click submit to view the completed search.