Tennessee Criminal Records Search gives residents and authorized users a legal way to view official criminal histories through state-approved channels. Anyone can request these records under the Tennessee Freedom of Information Act, which was first passed in 1977 and updated in 2015. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is the main agency that handles these requests. To get a certified criminal history report, you must send a written request to the TBI’s Criminal History Records Section. This request needs a completed form, a copy of your government-issued photo ID, and a $29 processing fee. Once approved, the TBI sends back a printed report with key details about the person’s criminal past.
The report lists the person’s full legal name, any known aliases, date of birth, age, self-identified race, and all conviction details. Each conviction shows the exact law that was broken (statutory citation), which court handled the case, and when the sentence was given. These records only include convictions—not arrests that didn’t lead to charges or cases that were dropped. The TBI does not include sealed or expunged records in public reports. This process ensures privacy while still allowing access to important public safety information.
How to Request Tennessee Criminal Records from the TBI
To start a Tennessee Criminal Records Search through the official state channel, you must contact the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Their Criminal History Records Section is located in Nashville and handles all public requests. You can submit your application by mail or fax—online submissions are not accepted for general public requests. The required form is called the “Criminal History Record Request” and is available on the TBI website. Make sure to fill it out completely and sign it.
Along with the form, include a clear copy of your driver’s license or another government-issued photo ID. The fee is $29 per name searched, and it must be paid by money order or certified check made out to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Personal checks and cash are not accepted. Also include a self-addressed stamped envelope so the TBI can mail your results back to you. Processing usually takes about 10 business days. If you need faster service, you can pay an extra $15 for expedited handling.
Online Tennessee Criminal Records Search Services
Many websites offer faster access to Tennessee criminal records by combining data from multiple sources. These services pull information from the TBI, county jails, sheriff’s offices, municipal police departments, and court systems across all 95 counties. Instead of waiting days for a mailed report, users can search instantly online. These platforms let you enter a person’s name and location to see arrest dates, charge descriptions, docket numbers, bond amounts, and sometimes mugshots.
Most sites update their databases nightly or weekly to include new arrests, court filings, and expungements. Some charge a one-time fee of $9.95 per report, while others offer unlimited searches for a monthly subscription. Free summary results are often available, but full reports usually cost extra. All reputable sites follow Tennessee’s privacy laws and encrypt personal data to protect user security. They also keep logs of every search for accountability and legal compliance.
What Information Is Included in a Tennessee Criminal Record?
A standard Tennessee criminal record contains several key pieces of information. First, it lists the individual’s full name and any nicknames or aliases they’ve used. Then it shows their date of birth and current age. Race is noted based on self-identification at the time of booking. For each conviction, the record displays the specific statute violated, the name of the sentencing court, and the exact date the sentence was imposed.
It also includes whether the person is currently on probation or parole and if they have any active warrants. If a record has been sealed or expunged, that status will appear in the report. However, sealed records are not visible to the general public. The TBI only releases conviction data—not dismissed charges or arrests without convictions. This helps protect people’s rights while still providing useful background information.
County-Level Criminal Records in Tennessee
Each of Tennessee’s 95 counties maintains its own criminal justice records. Local sheriff’s offices, police departments, and circuit courts handle arrests, warrants, and court cases within their jurisdiction. Many counties now offer online search tools so you can look up recent arrests, active warrants, and court dockets without visiting in person. Some charge small fees for printed copies, but basic information is often free.
For example, Shelby County and Davidson County have public-facing portals where you can search by name or case number. These systems show booking photos, charges filed, court dates, and bond amounts. If you need official documents like incident reports or judgment orders, you may need to visit the clerk’s office in person or submit a formal records request. Always check the specific county’s website for their rules and fees.
Tennessee Court Records and Docket Access
The Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts manages the statewide case management system. Through their Public Case History portal, you can look up criminal and civil cases using a case number or party name. For appellate cases, you only need to enter the sequence number—for example, “5656” instead of the full “M2012-05656-COA-R3-CV.” The system returns the full docket, including motions, rulings, and PDF copies of opinions.
You can also search by case style, which means entering a person’s name or a keyword from the case title. Results show every filing in the case, who submitted it, and what the court decided. This tool is free and updated regularly. It’s especially helpful for tracking ongoing litigation or verifying past convictions. For lower courts, check with the local clerk’s office, as not all counties upload dockets to the state system.
Background Checks: General Public vs. Qualified Organizations
The TBI offers two types of background checks. The first is for the general public and costs $29. It does not require fingerprints and returns felony convictions, pending charges, and sex offender registration status. This version is ideal for personal use, like checking a roommate or dating partner. The second type is for qualified organizations, such as employers, schools, or licensing boards. It costs $49 and requires a fingerprint card.
The qualified organization check includes more detail—misdemeanors, domestic violence restraining orders, and military discharge status. Because it uses fingerprints, it’s more accurate and harder to fake. Only approved agencies can request this level of report. Both types follow strict privacy rules and are governed by state and federal law. Always verify which type you need before submitting your request.
Inmate and Offender Search Tools
If you’re looking for someone currently in custody, use the Tennessee Department of Correction’s FOIL Offender Search. This free tool shows an inmate’s current location, photo, active sentences, and parole eligibility date. You can search by name or TDOC number. The system is updated daily and includes both state prisons and private facilities. Parole hearing schedules are posted on the Board of Parole website.
There’s also a mobile app called MyTN for iOS and Android. It mirrors the web search and sends push notifications when an inmate’s status changes, such as a release date or transfer. This is useful for families, legal representatives, or employers tracking someone’s incarceration. Remember, this tool only shows current inmates—not people who have been released or whose records are sealed.
Metropolitan Nashville Criminal Court Records
The Criminal Court Clerk of Metropolitan Nashville provides a public case search tool for Davidson County. It returns the defendant’s name and address as reported by the arresting agency. Some records may not include a date of birth. In those cases, you must visit the clerk’s office in person to verify the information before using it for official purposes. This protects against mistaken identity.
In 2023, Tennessee passed HB 1154, which expanded access to non-confidential case details while safeguarding sensitive personal data. Now, more court filings are available online, including motions, orders, and sentencing documents. However, certain records—like those involving minors or victims of domestic violence—remain restricted. Always check the latest rules before relying on online data for legal decisions.
Privacy Laws and Record Expungement in Tennessee
Tennessee has strong privacy protections for criminal records. Under the Tennessee Information Protection Act, all agencies must secure personal data and limit access to authorized users. Records that are sealed or expunged cannot be viewed by the public. Expungement removes convictions from your record after a waiting period, depending on the offense. Misdemeanors may be eligible after five years; felonies after seven.
To request expungement, file a petition in the court where you were convicted. If approved, the TBI and local agencies must delete or restrict access to your record. This process can take months and may require a lawyer. Once completed, your record will show as “expunged” in all searches. Note that some employers or licensing boards can still see expunged records under certain conditions, so consult an attorney for guidance.
Costs, Fees, and Payment Methods
Accessing Tennessee criminal records involves several possible fees. The TBI charges $29 for a name-based search and $49 for a fingerprint-based check. County offices may charge $5 to $15 for copying documents. Online services typically charge $9.95 per report or $20–$50 per month for unlimited access. Expedited processing adds $15 to TBI requests. Always pay with money order or certified check when mailing to state agencies.
Free options exist too. Many county jails and courts offer basic lookup tools at no cost. The state’s Public Case History portal is completely free. Some nonprofit organizations also provide low-cost background checks for vulnerable populations. Compare prices and features before choosing a service. Avoid sites that demand payment upfront without showing sample results or clear terms.
Accuracy, Updates, and Audit Logs
Reliable Tennessee criminal record services update their data frequently. Most pull new information nightly from the TBI, courts, and jails. This ensures that recent arrests, releases, or expungements appear quickly. Reputable platforms also keep detailed audit logs that record every search—including who searched, when, and for whom. These logs help prevent abuse and support legal compliance.
However, errors can happen. Names may be misspelled, cases mislabeled, or statuses outdated. If you find a mistake, contact the source agency directly. The TBI has a correction process for inaccurate records. Online services usually offer customer support to fix issues. Always double-check critical information before making decisions based on a criminal record search.
Legal Uses and Limitations of Criminal Records
Tennessee criminal records are public information, but they come with legal limits. You cannot use them for harassment, discrimination, or illegal profiling. Employers must follow federal laws like the Fair Credit Reporting Act when using records for hiring. Landlords can check records but must treat all applicants equally. Individuals have the right to dispute incorrect information.
Records should only be used for lawful purposes such as personal safety checks, employment screening (with consent), or legal research. Publishing someone’s criminal history online without context may violate privacy laws. Always consult a lawyer if you’re unsure how to use the information responsibly. Misuse can lead to fines or lawsuits.
Contact Information and Office Hours
For official requests, contact the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s Criminal History Records Section at 901 Cherry Road, Nashville, TN 37213. Phone: (615) 744-4000. The Administrative Office of the Courts is located at 511 Union Street, Suite 600, Nashville, TN 37219. Call (615) 741-2687 or toll-free (800) 448-7970. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Central Time.
Visit the TBI website at www.tn.gov/tbi for forms and instructions. The courts’ portal is www.tncourts.gov. Both sites offer downloadable guides, FAQs, and contact details. For in-person help, go to the Nashville offices during business hours. Bring a valid ID and any relevant case numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often have questions about how Tennessee criminal records work, what’s included, and how to get them. Below are answers to the most common concerns based on current state laws and procedures.
Can I search Tennessee criminal records for free?
Yes, some parts of Tennessee criminal records are free to access. County jails, sheriff’s offices, and the state’s Public Case History portal offer basic lookup tools at no cost. You can view arrest dates, charges, and court docket numbers without paying. However, full certified reports from the TBI cost $29, and detailed background checks from third-party sites usually charge fees. Free tools may not include mugshots, sentencing details, or sealed record status. For complete information, you’ll likely need to pay a small fee. Always verify the source is official to avoid scams.
How long does it take to get a Tennessee criminal record from the TBI?
The standard processing time for a TBI criminal record request is 10 business days from receipt of your completed form, ID, and payment. If you pay an extra $15 for expedited service, results come in 2–3 business days. Mail delivery adds a few more days depending on your location. Online services are much faster—often instant—but they rely on the same underlying data. Delays can happen if your form is incomplete or if the name matches multiple people. To speed things up, double-check spelling and include middle names or aliases if known.
Are expunged records visible in a Tennessee criminal records search?
No, properly expunged records do not appear in public Tennessee criminal records searches. Once a court approves expungement, the TBI and local agencies must remove or seal the record. Future searches will show “no record found” or “record expunged.” However, certain government agencies, law enforcement, or licensing boards may still access expunged data under specific conditions. If you believe an expunged record is showing up, contact the TBI immediately to request a correction. Keep your expungement order as proof.
Can employers in Tennessee access my criminal record?
Yes, employers in Tennessee can request criminal background checks, but only with your written consent. They must follow the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which requires disclosure and allows you to dispute errors. Employers cannot discriminate based on criminal history unless it directly relates to the job. The TBI offers a “Qualified Organization” check for employers, which includes misdemeanors and requires fingerprints. Always ask what type of check will be done and why. You have the right to know what’s in your record before it’s shared.
What if I find incorrect information in a Tennessee criminal record?
If you spot a mistake—like a wrong charge, date, or conviction status—contact the agency that provided the record. For TBI reports, call (615) 744-4000 or mail a correction request with proof (e.g., court dismissal papers). Online services usually have a “report error” button or customer support email. Corrections can take weeks, so act quickly. Incorrect records can affect jobs, housing, or loans. Keep copies of all communications and follow up until the issue is resolved.
Do Tennessee criminal records include arrests without convictions?
No, official Tennessee criminal records from the TBI only list convictions, not arrests that didn’t lead to charges or were dismissed. However, some online databases may show recent arrests before court outcomes are finalized. These are not considered official records and can be misleading. Always verify with the court or TBI if you need accurate legal status. Arrests without convictions should not be used against someone in employment or housing decisions under Tennessee law.
Can I search for someone else’s Tennessee criminal record?
Yes, anyone can request a Tennessee criminal record for another person as long as they follow the proper process. You don’t need the person’s permission for a public record search. Just submit a completed form, your own ID, and the $29 fee to the TBI. Online services let you search by name and location without direct consent. However, you cannot use this information to harass, stalk, or discriminate. Misuse can result in legal penalties. Always respect privacy and use records responsibly.
Related Public Record Resources
While searching Tennessee criminal records, you might also need other public documents. Here are trusted sources for related information: Phone number lookups, Indiana arrest warrants, Hennepin County records, Bradley County court filings, and Houston real estate records are available through specialized portals. Each follows its own state’s open-records laws and may require separate requests or fees.
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Indiana Arrest Warrants
Hennepin County Public Records
Bradley County Court Records
Houston Public Records Real Estate