How to Obtain Arrest Record

[jsimmons]

Back in 1978, I was arrested for "Failure to appear" on traffic tickets (San Diego PD), and then in 1986 for "Exhibition of speed" (San Diego County Sheriff). Do I have to list those on my CHL application?

The dates are approximate. I don't remember any more than an approximate year. Is that good enough, or do I have to get the exact date? Further, the SD County Sheriff apparently only keeps records for 7 years (I'm WELL outside that envelope).

[seamusTX]

If you were taken into custody and fingerprinted, you are legally obligated to disclose the arrest on your CHL application.

Just get on the internets and figure out which county office handles court records in San Diego. They can provide you with a letter that says they have no record of a conviction in that timeframe, and DPS will be satisfied with that. It might cost $10 or $20. This kind of situation (decades-old minor offenses) is pretty common.

- Jim

[joe817]

Make sure you request certified copies of the disposition, with the seal of the court. DPS wants all court related documents certified. Good luck!

[jsimmons]

I think I'm going to go to the California state DOJ, but I gotta send them a manual fingerprint card, and on their application for records, it says:

This application is not to be used to obtain a copy of your record to furnish to another person or agency for immigration, visa, employment, licensing, or certification purposes

Well why the hell else would someone need a copy of their criminal history?

I wish the info was available electronically. All I need to do is verify the dates...