Search Washington Criminal Records

Washington's official statewide criminal-history check is administered by the Washington State Patrol (WSP). Begin the request at watch.wsp.wa.gov. Most state-level checks require submitting fingerprints (live-scan or ink) plus a processing fee, and the response covers convictions and certain non-conviction data permitted by Washington statute.

Most adult criminal-history information in Washington is considered public record, but access is restricted depending on the requester (self, employer, government agency) and the data type (arrest, conviction, sealed, juvenile). The Washington State Patrol (WSP) explains who can request what at watch.wsp.wa.gov. County-court records are also public and searchable through the trial-court system.

A state check from the Washington State Patrol (WSP) (watch.wsp.wa.gov) covers only criminal activity within Washington. An FBI Identity History Summary (fbi.gov) is the nationwide check covering federal records and contributing states. Employers and licensing boards often require both.

Generally, no — only the record subject (with their own ID and signature) or a specifically authorized requester (such as a credentialed employer under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, a licensing board, or law enforcement) can pull a third-party criminal history from the Washington State Patrol (WSP). The Washington State Patrol (WSP) documentation at watch.wsp.wa.gov lists each authorized requester category.

If you find an error on your Washington criminal history, the Washington State Patrol (WSP) offers a record-review and challenge process. Begin at watch.wsp.wa.gov — typical steps include fingerprint verification, a written dispute, and supporting court documents (such as a dismissal or expungement order) for each contested entry.