California Arrest Records

Arrest records, also known as criminal records, are files that are maintained by the DOJ for people who were arrested by a member of law enforcement. Common information that you will find on a California arrest record includes the suspect’s name, address, and other details about the arrest.

California Arrest Records Include

– Suspect’s full name
– Date of birth
– Sex
– Occupation
– Physical characteristics (hair, eyes, height, weight)
– Date and time of arrest
– Booking info
– Bail amount
– Facts surrounding the case
– Time and manner of release or location where suspect is being held
– All charges that the suspect is being held for to include parole or probation violations and outstanding warrants in other jurisdictions

The best way to get a copy of your California arrest record from the DOJ is to complete an online request form on the State of California DOJ’s website. You will be required to enter your personal information as well as the type of record you request by providing as many details as possible to include:

– Date of arrest
– Case name
– Case number
– Document description

Once you have submitted this form electronically, the Public Records Coordinator for the Attorney General’s Office will reply to you with the contact information you provided.
You can also mail in a request form, but this will require you to submit your fingerprint images which can be done at most local police departments, sheriff’s offices, or any public applicant Live Scan site. Once your fingerprints are done, you must also pay a $25 processing fee to the California Department of Justice and follow the applicant instructions.

There are two types of application instructions: one for California residents and the other for out-of-state residents. All submissions by mail must be accompanied by a personal check, certified check, or money order that is payable to the California Department of Justice which is where you will also mail your application, fingerprint card, and processing fee.