mpd-background-check services help people get official records from the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, DC. These checks are used for jobs, travel, housing, licenses, and more. Most people need a police clearance to prove they have no criminal history. The Arrest and Criminal History Section handles over 6,000 requests each month. This office is located on the third floor of Police Headquarters at 300 Indiana Avenue NW. It is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Over 95% of visitors come to get a background check. The normal wait time is 24 to 48 hours. If someone has been arrested before, it may take up to 72 hours due to extra checks.
What Is a Police Clearance and Why Do You Need One?
A police clearance is an official document that shows your criminal history, if any, in Washington, DC. Many employers, landlords, and government agencies require it. You may need one for federal jobs, security clearances, adopting a child, renting an apartment, or getting a taxi license. Some people also need it for travel, especially for FL-20 certificates when going overseas for work. The clearance proves you have no record or lists any past arrests. It is not a license or permit. It is simply a record check. Without it, you may not qualify for certain jobs or services.
How to Apply for a Police Clearance in DC
To get a police clearance, you must complete PD Form 70, called the “Criminal History Request.” This form is only available in person at the Arrest and Criminal History Section. You cannot download it online. Bring a government-issued photo ID, like a driver’s license or passport. You also need to pay a $7 fee. You can pay with cash, credit card, or money order made out to the Metropolitan Police Department. After you submit the form, your clearance is usually ready in 24 to 36 hours. If you need it faster, same-day service is available for an extra $10. You must show proof of urgent need, such as a job start date or travel ticket.
Fees and Payment Options
The cost for a police clearance is $7. This fee is the same whether you apply in person or by mail. For mail-in requests, you must send a money order. Cash is not accepted by mail. Accident reports, known as PD-10 forms, cost $3 each. Incident or offense reports, called PD-251 forms, have no fee until December 2024. After that, fees may return. All prices are posted at the service counter and on the MPD website. You must pay before your request is processed. No exceptions are made.
Fingerprinting Services for Residents
If you live in Washington, DC, you can get fingerprinted at Police Headquarters. You must show a DC driver’s license, DC ID card, or military ID to prove residency. Fingerprint cards cost $2 if you buy them from the DMV. At the police station, live-scan fingerprinting costs $5 per card. The fingerprint office is on the third floor of 300 Indiana Avenue NW. It is open Tuesday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Completed cards are ready within one business day. You can also schedule an appointment online to save time.
Appointment System and Walk-In Policy
The MPD uses an online appointment scheduler for faster service. You can book a 20-minute slot for fingerprinting, clearance pickup, or report retrieval. Appointments can be made up to 30 days in advance. Walk-ins are only allowed if no appointments are scheduled. This helps reduce wait times and keeps the office organized. Always check the scheduler before visiting. Missing your appointment may delay your request.
Required Documents for Entry-Level Police Jobs
If you want to become a police officer in DC, you must pass a full background check. This includes a criminal history review, credit check, and residency confirmation. You need to bring a certified birth certificate or passport, a recent utility bill with your DC address, a high school diploma or GED, and two professional references. During your interview, you will discuss your work history, travel, and any past legal issues. Honesty is required. False information can disqualify you.
Equal Employment and Anti-Discrimination Policy
The Metropolitan Police Department follows federal law to ensure fair hiring. All applicants are treated equally regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or age. This policy is part of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. The department offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, a pension plan, sick leave, and vacation days. These benefits start after two years of service. Recruitment information is available online and at the hiring office.
Online Reporting and Cadet Programs
The MPD offers an online tool for non-emergency reports. You can report lost items, property damage, or minor crimes without calling 911. Reports are reviewed within 24 hours. If needed, an officer will call you back. The MPD Cadet Corps gives students hands-on experience in policing. High school and college students can join, ride along with officers, and earn up to 12 college credits. This program builds future leaders in public safety.
Memphis Police Department Records
The Memphis Police Department also offers background checks through its Central Records division. You can request incident reports or crash reports online, by mail, fax, or in person. The office is at 170 North Main Street, 7th Floor, Suite 7-11, Memphis, TN 38103. It is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In-person requests take three business days. Mail requests take five days. Fees vary by report type.
Related Inmate and Case Search Tools
Several online tools help you find inmate records and court cases. Jefferson County Inmate Lookup lets you search for people in jail. Will County Case Search provides court dates and charges. Missouri’s VINELink system tracks inmates and releases. Blue Horse Graves County Jail Inmates shows local detention status. These tools are free and updated regularly. Use them to verify legal status or stay informed about cases.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The main office for mpd-background-check services is at 300 Indiana Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001. It is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The phone number is (202) 727-4325. For fingerprinting, call (202) 727-4325. The website is mpdc.dc.gov. Always call ahead if you have questions. Staff can help with forms, fees, and scheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about mpd-background-check services. Below are the most common ones. Each answer is based on official MPD policies and current procedures. If you need more help, visit the office or call during business hours.
How long does it take to get a police clearance?
Most clearances are ready in 24 to 36 hours. If you have a prior arrest, it may take up to 72 hours. This extra time allows staff to verify records. Same-day service is available for $10 extra. You must show proof of urgent need, like a job offer or travel ticket. Always apply early to avoid delays.
Can I apply for a police clearance by mail?
Yes, you can mail your request. Send PD Form 70, a copy of your ID, and a $7 money order to the Arrest and Criminal History Section. Do not send cash. Processing takes the same time as in-person requests. Your clearance will be mailed back to you. Make sure your address is correct on the form.
Do I need an appointment for fingerprinting?
Appointments are recommended but not required. You can walk in if no one else is scheduled. However, booking online saves time. Each session is 20 minutes. The fingerprint office is open Tuesday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Bring your ID and payment. Cards are ready the next business day.
What if I don’t have a DC ID?
You must be a DC resident to get fingerprinted at MPD. Proof of residency is a DC driver’s license, DC ID, or military ID. If you don’t have one, you cannot use this service. You may need to get fingerprinted in your home state or at a private service. Check with the agency requesting the fingerprints for options.
Are police reports free?
Accident reports cost $3. Incident reports are free until December 2024. After that, fees may apply. Clearance certificates cost $7. All fees must be paid before processing. Payment methods include cash, credit card, or money order. Mail requests require a money order.
Can I check someone else’s background?
No. Only the person named on the record can request a clearance. Third-party requests are not allowed unless you have legal authorization, like a court order. This protects privacy and prevents misuse. Employers and landlords must ask applicants to get their own clearance.
What is the FL-20 travel certificate?
The FL-20 is a special clearance for government workers traveling abroad. It shows no criminal history in DC. You need it for certain international assignments. Apply the same way as a regular clearance. Mention “FL-20” on your form. Processing time is the same, but plan ahead for travel deadlines.