Available Information

Certain information may be available from local law enforcement and other agencies but is not available from Montana Criminal Records. 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.

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 Montana Motor Vehicle Division.

Types of Background Checks

There are two types of background checks:

• Name-based checks – 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.

Online Requests

Online requests are for name-based checks only.

For the general public:

• Go to the Montana Department of Justice Criminal History Online Public Record Search. Click on the Public Users “Start Service” button.
• To search, you must submit the individual’s complete name and complete date of birth. Social Security numbers are optional but are encouraged as they allow a more thorough search. Up to four alias names may be included in the search without further cost. You must also enter your name in order to comply with Section 44-5-215 of the Montana Code Annotated.
• You may pay the $11.50 fee for each record search by credit card or eCheck.

For registered users:

• Go to the Montana Department of Justice Criminal History Online Public Record Search. Click on the Registered Users “Start Service” button.
• Enter your username and password.
• You will receive monthly bills that you may choose to pay by credit card, electronic payment or invoice.

To become a registered user, go to Montana Department of Justice Criminal History Online Public Record Search. Click the “Become a Registered User” button.

Mail Requests

• Requests for background checks based on fingerprint cards must be submitted by mail. Requests for background checks 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-based or 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 Montana Criminal Records (see contact information below).
• Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope and the $10 processing fee for each individual to be checked must be paid by check or money order

Mail the completed request to:

Montana Criminal Records
303 North Roberts
P.O. Box 201403
Helena, MT 59620-1403
Email: dojitsdpublicrecords@mt.gov
Phone: (406) 444-3625