When you need to look up a criminal history in the state of Tennessee, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) is the primary resource. The TBI serves as the central repository for all criminal history information within the state, collecting data from local law enforcement agencies, courts, and correctional facilities. Whether you are an employer conducting a background check, a landlord screening a tenant, or an individual checking your own file, understanding how to navigate TBI criminal records is essential.
This guide provides a clear, step-by-step overview of what TBI criminal records are and how you can access them. We will cover the different types of background checks available, the costs involved, and how to interpret the results you receive. By the end of this article, you will have a practical roadmap for obtaining the information you need directly from the state’s official source.
What Are TBI Criminal Records?
TBI criminal records are official documents that summarize an individual’s contact with the Tennessee justice system. These records are compiled from information submitted by various local agencies across all 95 counties in Tennessee. When someone is arrested and fingerprinted, that information is sent to the TBI to be included in the state’s Master Name Index.
It is important to note that TBI records only contain information regarding crimes committed within the state of Tennessee. If an individual has a criminal history in another state or at the federal level, those details will not appear on a standard TBI-only check. For a complete national history, a separate FBI background check is usually required.
Common information found in a TBI criminal record includes:
- Personal Identifiers: Full name, aliases, date of birth, and physical descriptions.
- Arrest Data: The date of the arrest, the arresting agency, and the specific charges filed.
- Court Dispositions: The final outcome of the charges, such as guilty, not guilty, dismissed, or diverted.
- Sentencing: Details regarding jail time, fines, or probation terms.
Types of TBI Background Checks
There are two main ways to search for criminal records through the TBI. The method you choose depends on why you need the record and how much accuracy is required for your specific situation.
1. Name-Based Searches (TORIS)
The Tennessee Open Records Information System (TORIS) is the most common method for the general public to access criminal records. This is a “name-based” search, meaning you provide the person’s name and date of birth to find a match. While convenient, name-based searches are not 100% foolproof because multiple people can share the same name.
2. Fingerprint-Based Searches
Fingerprint-based checks are the gold standard for accuracy. Because fingerprints are unique to each individual, this method eliminates the risk of “false positives” associated with name-based searches. These checks are typically required for high-security jobs, such as teaching, healthcare, or positions involving the care of children and the elderly.
How to Request a Record Online via TORIS
For most everyday needs, the TORIS online portal is the fastest way to get a TBI criminal record. This service is available to any member of the public for a fee. You do not need a specific reason or legal authorization to request a public record through this system.
To perform a search using TORIS, follow these steps:
- Visit the official TBI website and navigate to the “Background Checks” section.
- Select the option for the Tennessee Open Records Information System (TORIS).
- Enter the required information for the subject: First name, last name, and date of birth.
- Optional: You can include a Social Security Number to help narrow down the results, though this is not required.
- Pay the processing fee using a credit or debit card.
- Review the results, which are typically provided instantly on your screen or via email.
Each search through TORIS costs $29.00. It is important to remember that this fee is non-refundable, even if the search returns no results or if the information provided was incorrect.
How to Request a Fingerprint-Based Check
If you are required by law or an employer to provide a fingerprint-based background check, the process is slightly different. The TBI does not perform the fingerprinting directly at their offices for the general public. Instead, they use a third-party vendor called IdentoGO.
To schedule a fingerprinting appointment, you must visit the IdentoGO website and register for an appointment at one of their many locations across Tennessee. You will need to provide an “ORI” (Originating Agency Identifier) code if the check is for a specific job or license. This code tells the TBI where to send the results.
Fingerprint-based checks generally cost more than name-based searches, often ranging from $35 to $50 depending on the specific requirements of the requesting agency. The results are usually sent directly to the employer or licensing board within 72 hours.
Understanding the Results
Reading a TBI criminal record can be confusing due to the legal terminology used. The most important section to look at is the “Disposition.” This tells you how the case ended. If a charge is listed but there is no disposition, it may mean the case is still pending or the court has not yet updated the TBI database.
Common disposition terms include:
- Conviction: The person was found guilty or pleaded guilty.
- Dismissed: The charges were dropped by the prosecutor or the judge.
- Nolle Prosequi: A Latin term meaning the prosecutor has decided not to pursue the case.
- Pre-Trial Diversion: A program where charges are dismissed if the defendant completes certain requirements, like community service.
Expungements and TBI Records
An expungement is a legal process that removes a specific charge or conviction from a person’s public record. In Tennessee, if a record is expunged, the TBI is required to remove that information from their public-facing database. This means the charge will no longer appear on a TORIS name-based search.
However, it is important to know that expunged records may still be visible to law enforcement and certain government agencies for specific purposes. If you believe a record should have been expunged but it is still showing up on your TBI report, you may need to contact the clerk of the court where the case was handled to ensure the expungement order was properly filed and sent to the TBI.
Correcting Errors on a TBI Record
Errors can happen in any large database. If you find a mistake on your TBI criminal record—such as a crime you didn’t commit or an incorrect disposition—you have the right to challenge it. The TBI has a specific process for “Record Challenges.”
To correct an error, you will usually need to provide official documentation from the court that handled the case. This might include a certified copy of the final judgment or a letter from the court clerk. Once the TBI receives this proof, they will update their records to reflect the accurate information.
Conclusion
Navigating TBI criminal records is a straightforward process once you understand the tools available. Whether you use the TORIS system for a quick name-based check or undergo a fingerprint-based screening for a new career, the TBI provides a reliable way to access vital background information. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure you are getting the most accurate data possible.
If you found this guide helpful, you may also want to explore our other articles on related topics. Check out our guides on how to find public records in other states, how to prepare for an employment background check, and what to do if you find an error on your credit report. At SearchAndHelp.com, we are here to make your everyday searches simple and successful.