Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division serves as the central hub for criminal justice data in Texas. It acts as the state’s official control terminal for eight major state and federal programs, including the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), Texas Conviction Data Repository, and the RAP Back system. Since its founding in 1973, this division has processed over 12 million data requests each year. It supplies law enforcement agencies with real-time arrest records, conviction details, and fingerprint verification services. The division maintains the Texas Computerized Criminal History (CCH) database, which holds more than 30 years of criminal activity records for every resident in the state. By working closely with the FBI, DEA, and local police departments, it ensures accurate and timely information reaches both state and national partners.
Core Functions and Responsibilities
The primary role of the Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division is to manage and distribute criminal history information securely and efficiently. It operates as a bridge between local, state, and federal agencies, ensuring that critical data flows without delay. The division handles name-based searches, fingerprint comparisons, and conviction verification for employers, courts, licensing boards, and law enforcement. Each request is logged with timestamps, user identifiers, and query parameters to maintain full accountability. This system supports background checks, employment screenings, and legal proceedings across Texas. All transactions comply with state privacy laws and federal regulations, including CJIS security policies. The division also monitors for identity misuse and flags suspicious activity linked to sealed or expunged records.
Public Access Portal Features
The public-facing portal of the Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division allows individuals and organizations to search criminal records directly. Users can enter a person’s name, date of birth, or social security number to retrieve conviction data from the CCH database. The system supports both desktop and mobile access, offering an intuitive interface with clear navigation. Every session is recorded in audit logs, including IP addresses and access times, to ensure transparency. Results can be exported as PDFs or CSVs for official use. A “Support | Print” button formats documents for court submissions or employer reviews. The portal also lets users request record corrections or initiate data removal processes when eligible. Fingerprint verification is available for authorized personnel and agencies needing biometric confirmation.
https://publicsite.dps.texas.gov/DpsWebsite/
Secure Law Enforcement Portal
Authorized law enforcement officers and criminal justice agencies use a separate secure portal managed by the Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division. This site requires multi-factor authentication, including a one-time passcode from an approved authenticator app. Once logged in, users gain access to real-time RAP Back alerts, batch processing tools, and detailed audit logs. All data transfers are encrypted using TLS 1.3, and every action is stored in tamper-evident logs for compliance and forensic review. The secure system integrates with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice to support parole supervision and inmate tracking. Agencies can customize alert settings based on offense type, jurisdiction, or subject age. Since 2015, the RAP Back program has issued over 2.3 million notifications, helping prevent repeat offenses and improve public safety.
Criminal History Database and Record Management
The Texas Computerized Criminal History (CCH) database is the backbone of the Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division. It contains over 45 million records dating back to 1975, covering arrests, convictions, and sentence dispositions. Each entry is linked to fingerprint data stored in state and federal repositories. The system automatically updates when new arrests occur or court dispositions are finalized. Juvenile records are handled with special care—when a youth completes probation without further offenses for two years, the record may be sealed automatically. Individuals seeking pardons must contact the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles directly. The division also monitors for identity theft by flagging mismatches between fingerprint submissions and existing records. This proactive approach helps protect both individuals and agencies from fraud.
RAP Back Program and Real-Time Alerts
The RAP Back program, run by the Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division, provides continuous monitoring for individuals with FBI-recorded fingerprints. When such a person is arrested anywhere in the U.S., the system triggers an automatic alert to participating Texas agencies. These notifications go to law enforcement, probation, and parole offices within minutes of confirmation. Since its launch in 2015, RAP Back has delivered more than 2.3 million alerts, significantly reducing recidivism risks. Agencies can set custom thresholds—for example, only receiving alerts for violent crimes or specific jurisdictions. The program works seamlessly with NCIC and other federal systems, ensuring no gaps in coverage. It’s a vital tool for keeping communities safe and supporting offender supervision.
Name Search and Batch Processing Services
Individuals and organizations can conduct name-based criminal history searches through the Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division by calling 1-855-481-7070. Each search requires valid credentials and logs the caller’s information for compliance. Users purchase credits in bundles of 10, 25, or 50, with one credit covering a single record view. For larger needs, batch processing is available via the secure portal at 1-855-481-7071. Each batch can include up to 500 names and is processed in the order received. Results are stored for seven days and downloadable as encrypted ZIP files for up to 30 days. The system tracks progress in real time and sends email receipts upon completion. Batch searches cost one credit per ten names, making it cost-effective for employers and agencies.
Privacy, Compliance, and Data Security
The Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division follows strict privacy and security protocols to protect sensitive information. All user sessions—whether on the public or secure portal—are logged with timestamps, IP addresses, and actions taken. Data is encrypted in transit using TLS 1.3 and stored in secure, access-controlled environments. The division complies with Texas Government Code, federal CJIS policies, and state privacy statutes. Unauthorized access attempts trigger immediate alerts and are investigated by internal auditors. Users can request corrections or expungements if records are inaccurate or outdated. Sealed juvenile records are automatically flagged to prevent disclosure. These measures ensure trust, accuracy, and legal compliance across all operations.
Career Opportunities and Agency Recruitment
The Texas Department Of Public Safety recruits individuals who demonstrate integrity, accountability, excellence, and teamwork. Candidates must pass a physical readiness test that includes a 1.5-mile run, obstacle course, and strength assessment. After fitness testing, applicants take a written exam covering criminal law, ethics, and situational judgment. A polygraph interview and background investigation follow, lasting up to 90 days. Successful candidates undergo a medical exam checking vision, hearing, and cardiovascular health. Those who pass enroll in the 12-week DPS Academy for training. The agency values diversity and seeks applicants from all backgrounds committed to public service.
Support and Contact Information
For assistance with criminal history searches or record requests, contact the Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division through their official channels. The public portal offers self-service options, while phone support is available at 1-855-481-7070 for name searches and 1-855-481-7071 for batch processing. Pardon applications must be submitted to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles at (512) 406-5852. The division’s main website provides detailed guides on eligibility, fees, and required documentation. All services operate during standard business hours, Monday through Friday, excluding state holidays. For urgent law enforcement matters, secure portal access ensures immediate response.
Official Website: https://www.dps.texas.gov/section/crime-records Phone: 1-855-481-7070 (Public Searches) | 1-855-481-7071 (Batch Processing) Address: 5805 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78752 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Central Time)
Related Services and External Resources
While the Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division manages statewide criminal data, other jurisdictions offer similar services. Residents may need access to records outside Texas for employment, licensing, or legal purposes. Below are links to public record systems in neighboring states and major cities. These resources follow their own privacy rules and fee structures.
- Kenosha Public Records
- Ashland County Jail Inmates
- Case Search Courts State Md Us Process Disclaimer
- White Pages Reverse Number Look Up
- Yellow Pages Find Someone
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about how the Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division operates, what services it offers, and how to access records. Below are answers to the most common inquiries based on current policies and procedures.
How do I request a copy of my own criminal history record?
You can request your own criminal history record by visiting the public portal at publicsite.dps.texas.gov or calling 1-855-481-7070. You’ll need to provide your full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. The system will verify your identity before displaying results. Each search costs one credit, which you can purchase in advance. If you find errors, you may submit a correction request through the same portal. For fingerprint-based verification, visit an approved livescan location. Results are typically available within minutes for name searches and up to 10 business days for fingerprint submissions.
Can employers access criminal records for job applicants?
Yes, employers in Texas can request criminal history information for job applicants, but only under specific conditions. They must obtain written consent from the applicant and use an authorized vendor or the DPS public portal. Certain convictions may disqualify applicants for licensed professions, such as nursing or teaching. However, Texas law limits the use of non-conviction arrests in hiring decisions. Employers cannot discriminate based on sealed or expunged records. The Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division does not provide legal advice on hiring policies—consult an attorney for compliance guidance.
What is the RAP Back program and who receives alerts?
The RAP Back program monitors individuals with FBI-recorded fingerprints and sends automatic alerts when they are arrested. Participating agencies include law enforcement departments, probation offices, parole boards, and licensing agencies. Alerts contain basic details like name, offense type, and arresting agency. Since 2015, over 2.3 million notifications have been issued. Agencies can customize alert settings to focus on serious crimes or specific jurisdictions. This system helps prevent repeat offenses and supports supervision efforts. Only authorized personnel with secure portal access can view RAP Back data.
How are juvenile records handled by the division?
Juvenile records are treated with special privacy protections. When a juvenile completes probation without further offenses for two years, the record may be sealed automatically. Sealed records are not accessible through public searches. Law enforcement and courts retain limited access for investigative purposes. If a juvenile is later convicted as an adult, the prior record may become part of their public history. Parents or guardians can request sealing earlier under certain circumstances. The Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division works with juvenile probation departments to ensure compliance with state sealing laws.
What fees are associated with criminal history searches?
Fees vary depending on the type of search. Name-based searches cost one credit per record viewed. Credits are sold in bundles: 10 for $15, 25 for $35, or 50 for $60. Batch processing costs one credit per ten names, with a maximum of 500 names per batch. Fingerprint verification requires an additional fee paid directly to the livescan provider, typically $10–$25. There is no charge for viewing your own record once per year. All fees are non-refundable, and receipts are emailed after purchase. Payment is accepted via credit card only through the secure portal.
How do I correct an error in my criminal record?
If you find inaccurate information in your criminal history, submit a correction request through the public portal or by mail. Include your full name, date of birth, a description of the error, and supporting documents like court dispositions or dismissal orders. The Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division will review your case within 30 days. If the error stems from a court, you may need to contact the clerk’s office first. Once corrected, an updated record will be available for future searches. Keep copies of all correspondence for your records.
Is my data safe when using the DPS crime records website?
Yes. The Texas Department Of Public Safety Crime Records Division uses advanced security measures to protect your data. All connections are encrypted with TLS 1.3, and user sessions are logged for auditing. The secure portal requires multi-factor authentication for law enforcement users. Personal information is never shared with third parties without legal authorization. The system complies with federal CJIS security standards and Texas privacy laws. Regular audits ensure ongoing protection against unauthorized access. If you suspect misuse, report it immediately to DPS cybersecurity officials.