How Do I Get My Criminal Record in Kansas? A Complete Guide to Requesting Your Criminal History

If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “How do I get my criminal record in Kansas?” you’re not alone. Whether you’re preparing for a job application, applying for housing, or simply want to know what information is on file about you, accessing your criminal history is an important step toward transparency and personal empowerment. Kansas offers multiple methods for individuals to request their criminal records, but the process can be confusing without proper guidance.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining your criminal record in Kansas—from understanding the types of criminal records available, to choosing the right method of request, and avoiding common pitfalls. This guide is designed to be user-friendly, rich in detail, and optimized for search engines so you can find the information you need quickly and confidently.

Understanding Criminal Records in Kansas

Before diving into how to request your criminal history, it’s important to understand what a criminal record entails and who maintains it in Kansas.

A criminal record, also referred to as a criminal history record or rap sheet, is an official document that includes information on arrests, charges, prosecutions, convictions, dispositions, and sometimes even dismissed cases or acquittals. It may also include details such as fingerprints, mugshots, and court appearances if such data is associated with your file.

Who Maintains Criminal Records in Kansas?

In Kansas, criminal records are primarily managed by two key agencies:

• Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI): The KBI maintains the central repository of criminal history records for the state. They manage fingerprint-based background checks and provide certified and non-certified copies of records upon request.
• Local Law Enforcement Agencies and County Courthouses: While KBI holds the centralized data, individual counties may maintain local court records, arrest logs, and other documentation. For complete accuracy, it’s often beneficial to cross-check with local courthouses.

Types of Criminal Record Checks Available

Not all criminal record requests are the same. Depending on your purpose, you can request different types of checks:

1. Name-Based Criminal History Check

This is the most basic form of a criminal record search. It relies on your name and date of birth to retrieve criminal data. However, because names are not unique identifiers, this method may yield incomplete or inaccurate results, especially if you have a common name.

2. Fingerprint-Based Criminal History Check

This is the most thorough and accurate method. By submitting your fingerprints, you ensure the record retrieved is uniquely yours. Law enforcement and employers often require fingerprint-based checks for positions involving vulnerable populations, such as childcare or healthcare.

3. Certified vs. Non-Certified Records

You can request either a certified or non-certified copy of your record:
– Certified records include an official seal and signature from KBI and are typically used for legal or official purposes.
– Non-certified records are for personal use and contain the same factual data but lack official authentication.

Step-by-Step Guide to Requesting Your Criminal Record in Kansas

Now that you understand what a criminal record entails, let’s walk through the practical steps to request yours.

Step 1: Decide How You Want to Request Your Record

Kansas offers three primary avenues to request your criminal history:
– Online through the KBI’s Secure Applicant Fingerprint System (SAFS)
– In person at a participating Law Enforcement Agency (LEA) or Regional Criminal Justice Information Center (RCJIC)
– By mail for name-based checks

Step 2: Prepare Necessary Identification and Documentation

Regardless of the method you choose, you’ll need valid identification. Prepare the following:
– A government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport)
– Proof of residency if required
– Your full legal name and any aliases you’ve used
– Date of birth
– Social Security number (optional but recommended for accuracy)

Step 3: Submit a Fingerprint-Based Request via SAFS (Recommended)

The KBI’s Secure Applicant Fingerprint System (SAFS) is the preferred method for fingerprint-based checks. Here’s how it works:

1. Create an Account: Visit the [KBI SAFS website](https://safs.kbi.ks.gov) and create a registered user account. You’ll need an email address to proceed.
2. Schedule an Appointment: Use SAFS to locate a fingerprinting vendor near you. Vendors include local law enforcement agencies, private background screening firms, or dedicated fingerprinting centers.
3. Attend the Appointment: Bring your photo ID and any additional documentation. The vendor will electronically capture your fingerprints and submit them securely to KBI.
4. Pay the Required Fees: As of 2024, the KBI charges $20 for a fingerprint-based state criminal history check. There may be an additional “rolling fee” of $10–$40 depending on the vendor.
5. Receive Your Report: Once processed, typically within 7–10 business days, you’ll receive a secure email link to access your criminal history report. You can download and print the record for personal use.

Note: Fingerprint-based requests are more reliable than name-based checks and are often required for employment, professional licensing, or immigration purposes.

Step 4: Request a Name-Based Record by Mail (Alternative Option)

If you need a non-fingerprint-based record, you can request a name-based check by mail. This process is limited and less reliable, but it may suffice for personal review.

To proceed by mail:

• Download the “KBI Name-Based Criminal History Record Check Request” form from the KBI official website.
• Complete all required fields, including full name, date of birth, aliases, and address.
• Include a $15 check or money order payable to the “Kansas Bureau of Investigation.”
• Do not include fingerprints with a name-based request—this method uses only personal identifying information.
• Mail your completed packet to:

Processing time for mail requests is typically 10–15 business days. The report will be sent via U.S. mail.

Step 5: Request Certified Copies for Official Use

If you need a certified record—such as for court submissions, immigration filings, or legal proceedings—you must specify that on your SAFS request or include an additional fee for certification in your mail request.

For mail requests, add $10 to your $15 fee, totaling $25, and check the “Certified Copy” box on the form.

Certified reports bear the official KBI seal and cannot be altered or reprinted digitally. Handle them with care and consider making a photocopy for your records.

Where to Get Fingerprinted in Kansas

While the SAFS system is convenient, you still need to find a location to be fingerprinted. Fortunately, Kansas has a wide network of authorized vendors.

Types of Fingerprinting Locations

Locations where you can get fingerprinted include:

• County sheriff’s offices
• Municipal police departments
• Private fingerprinting service providers
• Regional Criminal Justice Information Centers (RCJICs)

To find the nearest location:
– Log into your SAFS account at https://safs.kbi.ks.gov
– Use the “Schedule an Appointment” tool
– Filter by location, provider type, and availability

Some locations may require appointments, while others accept walk-ins. Popular providers in larger cities like Wichita, Overland Park, and Topeka generally require advance scheduling.

Tips for a Smooth Fingerprinting Experience

• Wear short sleeves or easily rollable sleeves to allow access to your fingers.
• Avoid lotions or oils on your hands prior to fingerprinting—clean, dry fingers produce clearer prints.
• Bring multiple forms of ID in case the vendor needs additional verification.
• Arrive early to avoid delays, especially if the vendor is busy.

Understanding What’s in Your Criminal Record

Once you receive your criminal history report, it’s crucial to review it thoroughly.

Typical Information Included

Your Kansas criminal record may include:

• Full name and aliases
• Date of birth
• Physical description or identifying marks
• Arrest dates and charges
• Court dispositions (e.g., guilty, not guilty, dismissed, deferred)
• Sentences imposed (e.g., probation, incarceration, fines)
• Parole or probation status
• Juvenile records (if applicable and not sealed)

What’s Not Included?

Certain records are not accessible through standard requests:
– Sealed or expunged records
– Juvenile records that have been legally closed
– Federal criminal records (e.g., from U.S. District Court)
– Arrests without charges or cases where charges were dropped without formal disposition

Important: If you believe your record is incomplete or contains errors, you have the right to request a review or correction.

What to Do If Your Record Contains Errors

Mistakes happen. Inaccurate or outdated information on your criminal record could harm your job prospects, housing applications, or licensing opportunities.

How to Dispute Inaccurate Information

The KBI allows individuals to challenge data entries through a formal process:

• Contact the KBI Criminal History Unit via phone or email.
• Request the “Record Challenge Form” or download it from the KBI website.
• Clearly identify the item(s) you believe are incorrect.
• Provide supporting documentation (e.g., court orders, dismissal papers, acquittal records).
• Submit the form and materials to the KBI for review.

The KBI will investigate and respond within 30–60 days. If they validate your claim, they will correct their database and issue an updated report.

Expungement and Sealing Records in Kansas

Having a criminal record doesn’t necessarily mean it’s permanent. Kansas law allows for expungement or sealing under certain conditions.

Eligibility for Expungement

Criminal offenses that may be eligible for expungement include:

• Non-violent misdemeanors
• Certain non-person felony offenses
• Cases where charges were dismissed or you were acquitted
• Convictions that occurred more than five years ago (depending on the crime)

Expungement removes the conviction from public view, though law enforcement and courts may still access it in specific situations.

How to Apply for Expungement

Expungement is a legal process and requires a court order. Steps include:

1. Determine eligibility by reviewing K.S.A. 22-4610 and consulting an attorney.
2. File a petition in the district court where you were convicted.
3. Pay the required filing fee (often around $200).
4. Attend a hearing if required.
5. Upon approval, request updated records from KBI to reflect the expungement.

Note: Expungement does not erase a record entirely. Instead, it changes the status to “expunged” and restricts public access.

Can Employers See Expunged Records?

Generally, no. Once a record is expunged, you can legally answer “no” when asked about prior convictions on most job applications. However, certain employers—especially those in law enforcement, government, or licensed professions—may have access to expunged records under specific statutes.

Always disclose expunged records only if explicitly required by the application or law.

Accessing Federal Criminal Records

Your Kansas criminal record will not include federal offenses. If you were charged or convicted in federal court (e.g., drug trafficking across state lines, immigration violations), you must request that information separately.

To obtain federal records:
– Submit fingerprints to the FBI through an authorized channel.
– Use the FBI’s “Identity History Summary Checks” service, commonly known as an “FBI Background Check.”
– You can initiate this through the same SAFS vendors that conduct Kansas fingerprinting—many are authorized to send prints to both state and federal databases.

The FBI charges $18 for a background check, and results are delivered by mail.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure a smooth process, avoid these common errors:

• Using incorrect personal information: Typos in your name, birthdate, or SSN can delay responses or lead to incorrect records.
• Requesting a name-based check when a fingerprinting one is needed: Some employers and licensing boards require fingerprint-based checks and will reject a name-based report.
• Missing the certification requirement: If your purpose requires a certified copy, ensure you pay the extra fee and mark the appropriate box.
• Not reviewing your record for errors: Always verify its contents. Mistakes are more common than you might think.

Costs Associated with Obtaining Your Criminal Record

Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:

Pro tip: Some municipalities or nonprofit organizations may offer free or reduced-cost fingerprinting services for individuals seeking records for employment or reintegration purposes. Contact your local county clerk or social services office for more information.

Why You Should Regularly Check Your Criminal Record

Keeping track of your criminal history is a proactive way to protect your future. Consider checking your record:

• Before applying for a job
• When applying for professional licenses
• Prior to housing applications
• As part of personal due diligence, especially after legal proceedings

Regular reviews help ensure accuracy and allow you to correct errors early, before they impact your opportunities.

Final Thoughts: Empower Yourself with Knowledge

Knowing how to get your criminal record in Kansas is more than a bureaucratic task—it’s a step toward controlling your narrative. Whether you’re rebuilding after a past conviction, ensuring the accuracy of your background, or preparing for a major life step like employment or relocation, having access to your criminal history is essential.

By using the KBI’s SAFS system, preparing accurate documentation, and verifying your report for errors, you can navigate the process efficiently and confidently. Stay informed, be proactive, and use this knowledge to open doors rather than let your past define your future.

Remember: Your criminal record is your legal property. You have the right to access it, challenge it, and improve it. No matter your circumstances, understanding and owning your history is the first step toward progress.

Take action today—your future self will thank you.

How can I obtain my criminal record in Kansas?

To obtain your criminal record in Kansas, you must request it through the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI). The KBI maintains official criminal history records for individuals, including arrests, charges, and dispositions. You can request your record online through the KBI’s official website, by mail, or in person at select locations. The primary method used is the Individual Request for Criminal History, which requires you to submit biographic information and fingerprinting for accurate identification.

The online request system allows you to submit required information and pay fees electronically, but you may still need to be fingerprinted at an approved location. If submitting by mail, download the appropriate form from the KBI website, complete it, and mail it along with the required fee and a copy of your government-issued photo ID. Processing times vary but typically take one to two weeks. Ensure all submitted documents are accurate to avoid delays or denial of your request.

Do I need to be fingerprinted to get my Kansas criminal record?

Yes, fingerprinting is typically required when requesting your criminal record from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Fingerprints ensure accurate identification and help distinguish you from individuals with similar names. You can get fingerprinted through authorized third-party vendors, local law enforcement agencies, or KBI-approved Livescan providers. Some counties and cities in Kansas offer fingerprinting services specifically for background checks and record requests.

Fingerprints submitted electronically via Livescan are processed faster than traditional ink prints. Many service providers charge a separate fee for fingerprinting in addition to the KBI’s record request fee. After being fingerprinted, the prints are sent directly to the KBI for matching against their database. Without valid fingerprints, your request may be delayed or denied. Therefore, it’s essential to plan for fingerprinting when applying for your criminal history.

Is there a cost associated with requesting my criminal record in Kansas?

Yes, there is a fee for requesting your criminal history record from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. As of the latest update, the standard fee is $12.50 per search. This fee covers the administrative cost of processing your request and retrieving your record. Fees must be paid at the time of submission, and payment methods vary depending on how you submit your request—online payments accept credit cards, while mailed requests require a check or money order.

The fee is non-refundable, even if no record is found or your request is returned due to incomplete information. Some individuals, such as those applying for certain jobs or licenses, may be eligible for fee waivers through sponsoring agencies, but general public requests are not exempt. Be sure to verify the current fee schedule on the KBI website before submitting your request, as fees are subject to change.

How long does it take to receive my criminal record from Kansas?

The processing time for a criminal record request through the Kansas Bureau of Investigation typically takes one to two weeks. Requests submitted online with electronic fingerprinting (Livescan) tend to be processed faster because they eliminate delays associated with mailing physical documents. Results are generally provided by mail or email, depending on the submission method and your selected delivery preference.

However, processing times may vary based on the volume of requests, accuracy of submitted information, and completeness of the fingerprint submission. Incomplete forms or poor-quality fingerprints can result in processing delays or the need to resubmit. In rare cases, such as needing manual record review, the wait time may extend beyond two weeks. You can check the status of your request through the KBI customer service line or online portal if available.

Can I get my criminal record expunged in Kansas?

Yes, certain criminal records in Kansas can be expunged, depending on the nature of the offense and your eligibility. Expungement allows individuals to legally remove or seal parts of their criminal history, making them less accessible to the public and certain employers. Qualifying offenses include dismissed charges, acquitted convictions, and some non-violent misdemeanors or felonies after a specified waiting period. The process requires filing a petition with the court that handled the original case.

Eligibility for expungement varies significantly by crime type and individual circumstances. Serious offenses like violent crimes, sex crimes, or DUIs are typically not eligible. Notably, Kansas passed new expungement laws in recent years, expanding access for certain drug-related and non-violent convictions. Before requesting your record, consider whether expungement is a viable option, and consult with a legal professional to guide your petition process.

Who can access my criminal record in Kansas?

In Kansas, access to your criminal record is restricted based on the type of record and applicable laws. Generally, only you, law enforcement agencies, and authorized organizations with a legitimate interest—such as employers conducting background checks, licensing boards, or certain government agencies—can access your criminal history. Access for employers requires your written consent under Kansas law, ensuring you have control over who views your information.

Public access to criminal records is limited; most are available only through official channels like the KBI or district court records. Certain records, such as those that have been expunged or sealed, are not accessible to the general public or private background check companies. Third-party websites may display outdated or inaccurate information, so individuals should rely on the official KBI record for accuracy. Always verify who is requesting your record and ensure proper authorization is in place.

What should I do if there’s an error on my Kansas criminal record?

If you find an error on your Kansas criminal record, you should immediately contact the Kansas Bureau of Investigation to initiate a correction. Errors can include incorrect arrest information, outdated dispositions, or inclusion of someone else’s record due to a mix-up. The KBI offers a formal process for challenging and correcting inaccuracies. You will need to provide supporting documentation, such as court orders, proof of identity, or case records, to validate your claim.

You must submit a written request for a review or appeal along with copies of evidence to the KBI’s Criminal History Section. The KBI will investigate and, if appropriate, update or delete the erroneous information. In some cases, you may need to work with the court where the case was adjudicated to correct the underlying record before the KBI can update its files. Keep copies of all correspondence and follow up regularly to ensure timely resolution.