Background Checks
Background checks, sometimes known as records checks or criminal history checks, are available to local, state and federal law enforcement agencies and the general public.

Law enforcement organizations – may receive all criminal history information that is available in Montana and across the nation, as long as the information is requested for criminal justice purposes.
General public – may receive arrest and prosecutor/court information on felony charges and misdemeanor charges, but information is limited by Montana's privacy laws. Criminal records that have been deferred and later dismissed cannot be released to the public.
Certain information may be available from local law enforcement and other agencies but is not available from Criminal Records and Identification Services. For example, requests for police reports, court transcripts, warrant information and probation/parole information should be directed to the appropriate local law enforcement agency or court.

There are two types of background checks:

Name Check – a search of Montana public criminal history record information only, using an individual’s name, date of birth and social security number.
Fingerprint Checks – accurate, comprehensive information, including access to criminal history information in Alaska, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah and Wyoming.
A background check includes only criminal history information. It does not include, for example, consumer credit or immigration status information. It includes driving-related information only as it relates to felony arrests. Driving records are available through the Motor Vehicle Division.

How to request a background check
Requests for background checks must be made in writing and should include:
the name of the person being checked and, if possible, any aliases or maiden names
the person's date of birth
his or her Social Security number
Specify whether the request is for a name check or a fingerprint check. For a fingerprint check, the requester must include an applicant fingerprint card. Blank cards are available from local law enforcement offices or from the Criminal Records and Identification Services office:

Phone: (406) 444-3625
E-mail : dojitsdpublicrecords@mt.gov
Enclose:
a self-addressed stamped envelope
the $10 processing fee for each individual to be checked
Mail the complete request to:

Criminal Records and Identification Services
303 North Roberts
P.O. Box 201403
Helena, MT 59620-1403 DOJ Home | News | Victim Services | Driving in Montana | Law Enforcement | Health & Safety
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