criminal record check georgia: a beginner’s guide to results, costs, and timing

What a Georgia background check covers

A criminal record check in Georgia runs through the Georgia Crime Information Center by law enforcement or approved vendors. It helps confirm arrests, charges, and court outcomes tied to a person.

How to request one

Bring written consent, valid ID, and a clear purpose. Agencies offer name-based searches or fingerprint submissions when higher certainty is required.

1. Confirm purpose and legal basis.
2. Choose name search or fingerprint.
3. Collect ID and signed consent.
4. Submit forms and fees.
5. Review results and dispositions.

Timing, fees, and accuracy

Many name checks finish same day; fingerprints take a few business days. Fees vary by county and vendor. Fingerprints reduce false matches; name-only results rely on identifiers like date of birth.

What shows up-and what may not

Reports usually list arrests, charges, and case dispositions. Some records can be restricted or sealed under Georgia law, and certain juvenile or non-conviction data may be limited. A state search is not an FBI check.