The cost of a background check at a police station varies significantly by location, service type, and the scope of the check requested. Local criminal history background checks commonly range from $6 to $20 at police stations in most cities and counties, while state or national checks—especially those requiring fingerprinting—are substantially higher.
- Prince William County, VA: Local criminal history check costs $6[3].
- City of Alexandria, VA: Local criminal history background check is $10[5].
- Prince George’s County, MD: Immigration (local criminal history) background check is $20[7].
- Montana Department of Justice: Public criminal background checks range from $10 to $30, depending on the type requested[4].
- Colorado Springs, CO: Local police background check usually costs $10 to $15[8].
- Maryland statewide (CJIS Central Repository): State-only check is $18 mail-in or $38 in-person; full state and FBI check is $30 mail-in or $50 in-person[1].
- Texas (DPS/FBI fingerprint-based): Combined fingerprint-based national check for paid employees is $39.75; reduced fees may apply for certain roles[6].
- Illinois State Police: Name-based (state only) is $16 manual, $10 electronic. State & FBI fingerprint-based is $33.25 manual, $28.25 electronic[2].
Note that fingerprinting fees, if required, are often charged separately and may add $10–$15 or more to the total. Confirm the specific requirements and costs with your local police department, as some checks may only provide local/arrest records and may not include statewide or federal search information.
References
- [1] Background Check – DPSCS
- [2] Fee Schedule – Illinois State Police
- [3] Background Checks – Prince William County
- [4] Background Checks – Montana Department of Justice
- [5] Information Services | City of Alexandria, VA
- [6] Fees for Background Checks and Fingerprinting
- [7] Immigration Background Check | Prince George’s County
- [8] Schedule of Fees – CSPD – City of Colorado Springs
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