Www-Fbi-Gov-Hq-Cjisd-Fprequest-Htm – Fbi Fingerprint Request Portal

www-fbi-gov-hq-cjisd-fprequest-htm is the official FBI web address for fingerprint and background check requests handled by the Criminal Justice Information Services Division. This secure portal provides access to forms, instructions, and processing guidelines for individuals and agencies needing criminal history records, identity verification, or NICS appeals. The page serves as a central hub for federal, state, and local partners to submit fingerprint cards, correct errors in records, or challenge background check decisions. All services follow strict U.S. Department of Justice regulations and require submission via mail to the CJIS facility in Clarksburg, West Virginia. The site ensures compliance with privacy laws while supporting public safety through accurate and timely data exchange.

What Is the FBI’s CJIS Division?

The Criminal Justice Information Services Division manages the FBI’s largest data repository, storing over 100 million fingerprint sets and 70 million individual identity records. Located on a 986-acre secure campus in Clarksburg, West Virginia, the division opened in July 1992 after construction began in October 1991. It houses forensic labs, a 24-hour command center, and encrypted servers that process more than 50,000 background checks daily. CJIS supports law enforcement nationwide by providing instant access to criminal histories, immigration records, and firearm eligibility checks. The division also maintains the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), which screens gun buyers in under 10 minutes for 90% of transactions.

How to Request an FBI Background Check

Individuals needing an FBI background check must submit a standard fingerprint card (FD-258), a signed cover letter stating the purpose (e.g., employment, visa, licensing), and a $18 fee payable to the “Treasury of the United States.” For student visa applications, include a Letter of Procedure from your school and request authentication. Mail all documents to: FBI CJIS Division, Attn: Record Request, 1000 Custer Hollow Rd., Clarksburg, WV 26306. Processing takes six to eight weeks. Expedited service is not available, but applicants can track status by calling (304) 625-5590. Do not send cash—only money orders or certified checks are accepted.

Identity History Summary: What It Includes

An Identity History Summary, often called a “rap sheet,” contains arrest records, charges, dispositions, and fingerprints from FBI-maintained databases. It does not include local court fines, traffic tickets, or sealed records. Under 28 CFR 16.30–16.34, only the subject of the record can request it for personal review. Employers or agencies cannot obtain it directly—they must use state-level checks. If errors appear, such as incorrect charges or missing dismissals, applicants may dispute them within 30 days by submitting court orders, certified birth certificates, or pardon documents. The FBI re-evaluates disputes within one month and issues corrected summaries if warranted.

NICS Appeals: Correcting Firearm Background Check Errors

If a National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) denial occurs, applicants have 30 business days to appeal. The appeal packet must include the NICS Transaction Number (NTN) or State Transaction Number (STN), a signed affidavit explaining the error, a copy of the ID used during the original check, and a prepaid return envelope. Missing the NTN/STN delays processing by up to 30 additional days. Appeals are reviewed by the FBI’s NICS Section in Clarksburg, WV. Common reasons for denial include outdated warrants, mistaken identity, or incomplete court dispositions. Successful appeals result in immediate clearance for firearm purchase.

Fingerprint Submission Requirements

All fingerprint submissions must use the FD-258 card, available at local police departments, sheriff’s offices, or certified fingerprinting agencies. Digital prints are not accepted for FBI record requests. Cards must be rolled clearly on the left and right index fingers, with plain ink (black preferred). Smudged, incomplete, or smeared prints will be rejected, causing delays. Include your full legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number on the card. For minors, a parent or guardian must sign. Never fold or staple the card—mail it flat in a padded envelope to prevent damage.

Processing Times and Fees

Standard FBI background check processing takes six to eight weeks from receipt. No expedited options exist. The current fee is $18, paid via money order or certified check made out to the “Treasury of the United States.” Personal checks and cash are not accepted. For NICS appeals, there is no fee, but a prepaid return envelope is required. Identity History Summary corrections are free if supported by valid documentation. Delays occur if forms are incomplete, fingerprints are illegible, or the fee is missing. Applicants should allow extra time during peak periods like holiday seasons or back-to-school months.

State-Specific Procedures: Washington, D.C. and Ohio Examples

In Washington, D.C., residents submit requests through Central Business Service, Inc., at 815 15th Street NW, Suite #607. The fee is $15, payable by cash, credit card, or money order. Two fingerprint cards and a government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID) are required. Expedited service costs extra with a certified check. In Ohio, applicants mail requests directly to the CJIS Division in Clarksburg with a $14 fee, photo ID copy, and self-addressed stamped envelope. Both states require clear purpose statements (e.g., “for employment at X company”) to avoid rejection.

Challenging Inaccurate FBI Records

To challenge an FBI identification record, first contact the state repository where the arrest occurred (e.g., state police or court clerk). Request a certified copy of the arrest record. If it contains errors—such as wrong charges, missing dismissals, or incorrect dates—prepare a written challenge listing the case number, specific inaccuracies, and supporting documents like court transcripts or pardon papers. Mail this to the FBI Customer Service Group at the CJIS Division in Clarksburg or call (304) 625-5590. The FBI will review and correct verified errors within 30 days. Keep copies of all correspondence for your records.

National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) Overview

The NICS verifies whether a prospective firearm buyer is prohibited under federal law. Operated by the FBI since 1998, it processes over 300 million checks annually with a 99.9% accuracy rate. Prohibited categories include felony convictions, domestic violence misdemeanors, mental health adjudications, and unlawful drug use. Most checks complete in under 10 minutes. If delayed, the sale may proceed after three business days unless denied. States may operate their own point-of-contact systems, but all feed into the federal NICS database. Privacy rules limit data retention to 90 days unless an investigation is ongoing.

FBI PCC Form for Canadian Immigration

Canadian immigration applicants often need a Personal Criminal Check (PCC) from the FBI. The form requires listing all known aliases, previous surnames, and exact spellings as they appear on official documents. The “OCA” field refers to the Officer-in-Charge Assignment number, typically provided by Canadian authorities. Contact numbers include +1 (514) 937-9445 (Canada) and +1 (888) 947-9445 (U.S.). Accurate completion ensures the FBI locates the correct fingerprint records. Incomplete forms delay processing. Always use the latest version from the official FBI forms portal.

Official FBI Forms and Security

All FBI forms are hosted on secure *.gov websites with “https://” and a padlock icon in the browser bar. Never submit personal information to non-.gov sites—these are phishing scams. The official forms portal (forms.fbi.gov) offers free PDFs for background checks, fingerprint cards, and appeal templates. Each form has a unique number (e.g., FD-258) that must be referenced in mail correspondence. Download forms directly; do not use copies from third-party sites. Print clearly and fill in black ink to avoid processing errors.

Related Public Record Resources

While www-fbi-gov-hq-cjisd-fprequest-htm handles federal records, users may also need state or local data. Collin County and Boise County offer online inmate locators. Birth certificates can be requested through state vital records offices. Johnson County, Indiana, provides court record searches. These resources operate independently under state laws and may charge separate fees. Always verify URLs end in .gov to ensure legitimacy.

Contact Information

For questions about www-fbi-gov-hq-cjisd-fprequest-htm or record requests, contact the FBI CJIS Division at 1000 Custer Hollow Road, Clarksburg, WV 26306. Phone: (304) 625-5590. Email inquiries are not accepted for record requests—all communication must be by mail. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST. Walk-ins are not permitted; the facility is secured and access-controlled. For general FBI information, visit www.fbi.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about FBI background checks, record corrections, and NICS appeals are answered below. These cover eligibility, documentation, timelines, and troubleshooting. Each response reflects current FBI policies and federal regulations as of 2024.

Can I get my FBI background check online?

No. The FBI does not offer online submission for background checks. All requests must be mailed with fingerprints, fees, and supporting documents to the CJIS Division in Clarksburg, WV. Digital fingerprint submissions are only accepted by law enforcement agencies, not individuals. This ensures security and prevents fraud. Third-party services claiming to expedite online requests are not affiliated with the FBI and may be scams. Always use the official process outlined on www-fbi-gov-hq-cjisd-fprequest-htm.

How long does it take to correct an error on my FBI record?

The FBI reviews disputed records within 30 days of receiving complete documentation. If you provide court orders, certified birth certificates, or pardon papers proving an error, the correction is typically finalized within that window. Delays occur if documents are unclear, incomplete, or sent to the wrong address. Follow up by calling (304) 625-5590 after four weeks. Keep copies of all submissions. Once corrected, a new Identity History Summary is mailed to you at no cost.

What happens if I forget my NICS Transaction Number?

If you lose your NICS Transaction Number (NTN), contact the firearm dealer who initiated the background check. They must provide the NTN or State Transaction Number (STN) for your appeal. Without it, the FBI cannot locate your file, and processing delays by up to 30 business days. Always request a copy of the NTN at the time of purchase. If the dealer refuses, file a complaint with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Can a minor request their own FBI background check?

Yes, but a parent or legal guardian must sign the request and fingerprint card. Minors cannot submit independently. Include the child’s full name, date of birth, and the guardian’s contact information. The purpose (e.g., adoption, school program) must be clearly stated. Processing time and fees are the same as for adults. Note that juvenile records are often sealed and may not appear on the summary unless they were transferred to adult court.

Is the $18 fee refundable if my request is denied?

No. The $18 processing fee is non-refundable, even if no record is found or the request is incomplete. This covers administrative costs. If your fingerprints are rejected due to poor quality, you must resubmit with a new fee. To avoid waste, ensure fingerprints are clear and all forms are fully completed before mailing. Use black ink and avoid folds or staples on the fingerprint card.

Can I use an FBI background check for international jobs?

Yes, but many countries require additional authentication. For example, Canada often needs an apostille or Letter of Procedure from a Canadian embassy. Contact the employer or immigration authority first to confirm requirements. The FBI does not provide apostilles—you must obtain them separately through the U.S. Department of State or your state’s secretary of office. Allow extra time for this step after receiving your summary.

What if my name has changed due to marriage or court order?

Submit a certified copy of your marriage certificate or court order with your request. List both your current and previous names on the cover letter and fingerprint card. The FBI will search under all known identities to ensure a complete record. Omitting prior names may result in a partial summary. This is especially important for immigration, adoption, or security clearance applications where full disclosure is mandatory.

For official guidance, visit: www.fbi.gov/hq/cjisd/fprequest.htm Phone: (304) 625-5590 Address: 1000 Custer Hollow Road, Clarksburg, WV 26306 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. EST