Key Facts
- To obtain your criminal record, you can request a background check from the California DOJ and the FBI.
- The California DOJ requires a completed form and fingerprinting via Live Scan for a record review.
- For an FBI Background Check, applicants can receive results quickly without the hassle of visiting the post office.
- Personal record reviews are your legal right in California, useful for checking accuracy or preparing for immigration.
- Fees apply for background checks, including a $25 DOJ processing fee and a rolling fee for Live Scan services.
How to See Your Criminal Record
Summary: How to See Your Criminal Record in California & the U.S.
| Type of Record | How to Get It | What You Need | Typical Processing Time | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California DOJ Record Review (Personal Criminal Record) |
• Complete BCIA 8016RR form • Get fingerprinted via Live Scan • DOJ mails results directly to you |
• Valid government-issued ID • BCIA 8016RR form • Live Scan fingerprints |
3–10 business days | California Background Check Guide |
| FBI Background Check (Identity History Summary / Rap Sheet) |
• Complete the one-page form (provided at appointment) • Get fingerprinted • Receive results by email |
• Valid government-issued ID • Simple FBI form (we provide) • Fingerprints |
Within minutes (2 emails) | FBI Background Check Guide |
| Record Review for Immigration | • May require DOJ, FBI, or AF760 form • We provide all required forms and fingerprinting | • Government-issued ID • Immigration-specific forms (FBI, DOJ, AF760) | Varies by agency | Learn about immigration checks |
| Expungement / Record Sealing Check | • Obtain your DOJ report • Review charges, outcomes, and dismissals • Begin sealing/expungement process if eligible |
• DOJ Report (via Live Scan) • Valid ID |
Processing varies | Record Sealing & Expungement |
California DOJ and FBI Record Review (Rap Sheet)
When it comes to obtaining your criminal record (also referred to as Rap Sheet or Identity History Summary Check) from 1. the California Department of Justice (CADOJ) and the 2. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), our services extend beyond notarization and fingerprinting to include assistance in acquiring both types of background reports so you can see your criminal record both in California and anywhere in the world.
It’s important that you understand the difference between them. We spend a lot of time explaining these differences to clients. Let’s explore how Anshin Mobile Notary and Livescan can help individuals obtain 1. your California Background Check from the California Department of Justice CADOJ and 2. your FBI Background Check from the FBI.
1. California Background Check
The CADOJ offers Record Review background reports for applicants. We provide the required Request for Livescan Service Record Review form to applicants. Applicants simply need to bring in their drivers license or other government issued photo identification. We take their fingerprints and submit the data, together with the information in their form, to the CADOJ. The CADOJ will mail applicants their background report.
2. FBI Background Check
Applicants often visit us who are discouraged after visiting the post office, trying to get an FBI Background Check. We can give you the same thing, without the hassle, and you’ll receive the results within minutes. Applicants simply need to bring in their drivers license or other government issued photo identification.
We will provide a form to fill out. We take their fingerprints and submit the data, together with the information in their form, to the FBI. The FBI will email applicants their rap sheets in 2 separate emails. We teach applicants how to access their information, as it may be a bit tricky.
Once you retrieve your record, you cannot get it again without getting fingerprinted again. So it’s important that you follow the instructions in the emails you receive and make sure you understand it when we teach you about it. Of course, we’re always happy to help you if you have problems.
Trust Anshin Mobile Notary and Livescan to see your Rap Sheet
Anshin Mobile Notary and Livescan is your go-to partner for obtaining both California DOJ and FBI criminal background reports.. Our comprehensive services, including fingerprinting, application assistance, submission support, and status updates, ensure a smooth and efficient process for acquiring your background reports.
Rest assured that your requests are handled professionally and expediently, allowing you to access the information you need for various purposes.
FAQ
How to See Your Criminal Record
To access your own criminal record (also known as a Record Review or Rap Sheet), you can request background checks from both the California Department of Justice (CADOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Our team helps you complete the required forms, takes your fingerprints, and submits everything so you receive your official results as quickly as possible.
1. California DOJ Record Review
The California DOJ provides a Record Review background report for personal use. We supply the required CADOJ Record Review form (BCIA 8016RR) during your appointment. Bring a valid government-issued ID, and we will capture your Live Scan fingerprints and electronically submit them to the DOJ.
The DOJ will mail your results directly to your home. Processing typically takes 3–10 business days.
What You Need
- Completed CADOJ BCIA 8016RR form
- Valid government-issued ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport)
- Live Scan fingerprinting
2. FBI Background Check (Rap Sheet)
If you’ve struggled at the post office, we can provide a much faster alternative. We take your fingerprints and electronically submit them to the FBI for processing. Most applicants receive their FBI results by email within minutes.
Your FBI results arrive in two separate emails. We will show you exactly how to access and download your report securely.
What You Need
- Valid government-issued ID
- Simple one-page FBI form (provided at your appointment)
Learn more about FBI background checks here: FBI Background Check Guide
Why Choose Anshin Mobile Notary & LiveScan?
We provide fast, accurate, and confidential services for:
- California DOJ Record Review submissions
- FBI Identity History Summary Checks
- Status updates and application support
- Translation, apostille, and document authentication
You can also explore how Live Scan results work here: Understanding Live Scan Results
FAQs About Seeing Your Criminal Record
How can I see my own criminal record using Live Scan?
You can request your DOJ Record Review by completing the BCIA 8016RR form and getting fingerprinted. This report is for personal use only and cannot be shared. Learn more: California Background Check
How do I request a DOJ background check?
Download the BCIA 8016RR form, bring it to your Live Scan appointment with valid ID, and the DOJ will mail your results directly to you. More information here: California Background Check Guide
How long does it take to receive results?
Most DOJ reports arrive by mail within 3–10 business days. If delayed, you can check your status using your ATI number.
What ID do I need?
A current government-issued ID is required. See full guidelines here: CADOJ ID Requirements
Can I check my record for immigration?
Yes. Immigration agencies often require DOJ, FBI, or AF760 background checks. We provide all forms and fingerprinting. Learn more: FBI Background Check
Is there a fee?
Yes—Live Scan rolling fees apply, plus a $25 DOJ processing fee. We accept all major payment methods.