Background checks

What services does CBI provide for conducting criminal history checks?

Criminal history reports can be accessed immediately by using our web-based system and charging to your credit card $ per result viewed. If you are requiring an official or notarized response on CBI letterhead or paying with another form of payment other than a credit card, submit a written form to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation for a manual search ($13.00). We do not accept personal checks. The search can take up to 3 business days to complete, after which the results will be mailed. Forms can be printed off by clicking Here (opens in a new tab)

What information does a criminal history check consist of?

Criminal history data is based on fingerprint submissions from law enforcement agencies within the State of Colorado. CBI is not allowed to disclose information from other state or federal databases. Sealed records are not released to the public. Warrant information and criminal arrest information regarding juveniles is not released to the public by the CBI, but some such records may be released to the public by the arresting agency, the agency that filed the case or the court.

Will the CBI criminal history check provide information on warrants?

No. Information is available only by contacting the issuing agency(s) and at their discretion.

What is the benefit of using the on-line service?

Cost is $ per report viewed as opposed to $13.00 to process a mailed in form
Response is received real time as opposed to 3 business days plus mailing time
Detailed or summary financial reports will be accessible to account holders

What type of payment is required to do a criminal history check?

Mailed requests to CBI for manual processing:

Personal checks – not accepted.
Money orders – must be issued by a United States bank and made payable to CBI.
Business or Cashier checks – must be made out to CBI, include a signature, date issued must be within 90 days.
Credit Card – Visa/Mastercard/Discover/AMEX. Credit card form can be printed off by clicking Here (opens in a new tab)

Web-based requests:

Visa/Mastercard/AMEX (AM EXP--only available to account holders)
Pre-pay (must set up an account, initial minimum amount of $200 must be established)

What criteria will be needed to conduct a criminal background check?

First and last name (mandatory)
Date of birth (mandatory)
Social security number is optional but, recommended if known. If provided may result in better matching accuracy if social security number is on file with CBI.