Submitting a Fingerprint-Based Record Check

The Kansas Central Repository can search the database of criminal history records either by name or by fingerprint comparison. You may use either method to identify and receive criminal history records.

What criminal history record information is and is not released

A fingerprint-based record check will return the types of criminal history information that are permitted by the reason for which the check is conducted.

Obtaining your own criminal history record

This page describes the procedures for obtaining and submitting Applicant fingerprint cards for record checks of persons other than yourself.

If you are interested in obtaining your own criminal history record, you will submit a different fingerprint card; the Personal Identification card. For information on that process, please visit the Reviewing Your Own Criminal History page.

Manual printing or "livescan" submissions

The most common means of submitting fingerprint is by the traditional method in which "inked and rolled" fingerprints on a cardboard fingerprint card are mailed to the KBI for processing. A new alternative is the electronic capture of fingerprints on a machine known as a "livescan" device. Livescan devices are available at some Police Departments, Jails and Sheriff's Offices in the state. While most livescan submissions are for arrest bookings, civil submissions for public access record checks may be available, especially as this new technology becomes more common.

Obtaining the proper fingerprint card

Fingerprints to be submitted for records checks must be recorded on the current version of the FBI's Applicant Fingerprint Card, FD Form 258. Criminal justice agencies that process applicant fingerprint cards maintain a stock of these cards. If you cannot obtain assistance from your local Police Department or Sheriff's Office, the KBI will provide blank cards for you to use.

The card must be completed properly before submitting to the KBI for processing. Review the sample card for instructions and guidance.

Submitting an "ink and roll" fingerprint card

For each person being checked, mail to the KBI one fingerprint card with a completed Manual Record Check Request form. The KBI address is on the form. Be sure to include the proper payment.

Submitting a "livescan" fingerprint record

To qualify for livescan submissions, you must have prior approval of the KBI and you must have access to a livescan device.

Obtaining KBI approval to submit livescan records involves establishing a billed account with the KBI. Approval requires that you submit fingerprint-based record checks on a recurring basis, and that you have a satisfactory credit history. To request approval, submit a letter of request directly to the KBI.
You must have access to a livescan device that is connected to the KBI. This can be a livescan device operated by a Kansas Police Department, Sheriff's Office or other agency that is willing to provide service for public requests, or it can be a livescan device you own. The state of Kansas has established procedures, standards and protocols for electronic record creation and transmission, and these must be met before livescan connections can be made. If you are interested in obtaining a livescan device and establishing electronic connectivity to the Kansas Central Repository, please contact the KBI Data Processing Section, Attention: AFIS Coordinator, 1620 SW Tyler, Topeka, Kansas 66612-1837.

Costs for fingerprint-based record checks

Fingerprint based record checks are $35.00 per individual.

Other types of record checks to consider

General public name-based check. This type of record check is the easiest to conduct. If you are reasonably certain of the correct name and personal information of the subject of your search and you don't want to submit a fingerprint card, a name-based record check will release the same record for you. For further information, go to the Conducting a Public Record Check page.

Personal review. If you are conducting the record check on yourself, this is the proper way to do so. For further information, go to the Reviewing Your Own Criminal History page.
Certified. If you need to have the results of the record check certified by the Central Repository, go to the Certified Record Checks page for further information.