Hawaii Criminal Records Check gives authorized users fast, legal access to adult conviction records through the official HCJDC-073 form and the secure eCrim online portal. Anyone needing a background check—like employers, licensing boards, or volunteer groups—can request records by submitting a full legal name and date of birth or FBI-compatible fingerprints. The system searches state court convictions from 1975 to today, showing the law broken, the date of conviction, and the sentence given. Name-based results arrive by email in ten business days. Fingerprint requests take up to twenty days. All services follow Hawaii’s public records laws and protect privacy rights.
How to Request a Hawaii Criminal Records Check
There are three main ways to get a criminal records check in Hawaii. First, use the eCrim online portal for instant name-based searches. Second, visit a public access site in person to print a record. Third, mail or deliver a completed HCJDC-073 form with fingerprints. Each method has different fees, timelines, and requirements. Most people choose eCrim for speed and convenience. The portal charges $5 per name search and $10 for each certified report. Certified reports include an official HCJDC seal and a legal disclaimer about how the data can be used. Payments are made securely online with a credit card or electronic transfer. Results are emailed as PDFs within one business day after payment clears.
eCrim Online Portal: Fast and Secure
The eCrim system is Hawaii’s official digital gateway for adult criminal conviction records. It pulls data directly from the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center’s archives. Users must create an account and verify their identity before searching. Once logged in, they enter the person’s full legal name, date of birth, and middle initial if known. The system returns matches with statute numbers, conviction dates, sentencing details, and court names. Each result links to a PDF of the original judgment. The interface includes a “Show/Hide Helpful Information” toggle that explains legal terms and abbreviations. This helps users understand what they’re reading without needing a law degree.
In-Person Requests at Public Access Sites
For those who prefer face-to-face service, Hawaii operates several public access sites. The main location is at 465 S. King Street, Room 102, Honolulu, HI 96813. This office has secure terminals where visitors can search and print records. The fee is $25 per printed record, payable by cash, check, or credit card. Staff assist with navigation but cannot give legal advice. Other satellite locations may exist through local police departments. Call (808) 587-3279 to confirm hours and availability before visiting. Some offices close on state holidays, so checking ahead saves time.
Fingerprint-Based vs. Name-Based Checks
Hawaii offers two types of criminal records checks: name-based and fingerprint-based. Name-based checks are faster and cheaper but rely on accurate personal details. They work well for most employment or volunteer screenings. Fingerprint-based checks are more thorough and used for high-risk roles like teaching, healthcare, or law enforcement. These require FBI-compatible fingerprints taken at an approved site. Results include only convictions, not arrests without charges. Both methods search the same database, which dates back to 1975. Fingerprint requests take longer—up to twenty business days—because they require manual review.
When to Use Fingerprint Checks
Fingerprint-based checks are required for certain licenses and jobs. Examples include school employees, childcare workers, nurses, and security personnel. These roles involve vulnerable populations, so accuracy is critical. Fingerprinting ensures the record belongs to the right person, even if names are similar. The process starts with visiting an authorized fingerprinting location. Many police stations and private agencies offer this service for a small fee. Once submitted, the HCJDC compares prints against state and federal databases. Only confirmed matches appear in the report.
Fees, Payment, and Delivery Times
Hawaii’s criminal records check system uses clear, fixed pricing. Name-based searches cost $5 each through eCrim. Certified reports cost $10 extra and include the official seal. In-person prints cost $25 at public access sites. All fees must be paid upfront. Online payments use secure gateways; in-person payments accept cash, check, or card. Delivery times vary by method. Name-based eCrim results arrive within one business day after payment. Fingerprint-based results take up to twenty business days. Email delivery is standard, but certified mail is available upon request. No refunds are issued for completed searches, even if no record is found.
Fee Breakdown Table
| Service Type | Cost | Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|
| Name-Based Search (eCrim) | $5 per name | 1 business day |
| Certified Report (eCrim) | $10 per report | 1 business day |
| In-Person Print | $25 per record | Same day |
| Fingerprint-Based Check | $25 + fingerprinting fee | Up to 20 business days |
Who Can Request a Hawaii Criminal Records Check?
Not everyone can request a criminal records check in Hawaii. Only authorized entities may access these records. This includes employers with written consent, licensing agencies, volunteer organizations, and government bodies. Individuals can also request their own records. Third-party requests require a signed authorization form from the person being checked. Unauthorized access violates Hawaii law and can lead to penalties. The HCJDC verifies each requester’s eligibility before processing. This protects privacy while allowing legitimate background checks.
Common Authorized Users
- Public and private employers
- State licensing boards (e.g., nursing, real estate)
- Nonprofit and volunteer groups
- Schools and childcare centers
- Law enforcement agencies
- Individuals requesting their own records
What Information Is Included in a Hawaii Criminal Record?
A Hawaii criminal record shows only adult convictions, not arrests, charges, or dismissals. Each entry lists the statute violated, the date of adjudication, the sentencing court, and the penalty imposed. For example, it might show “HRS § 708-810, Burglary in the First Degree, convicted March 15, 2020, sentenced to 5 years probation.” Records start from 1975 and include all state courts. They do not include juvenile records, sealed cases, or expunged offenses. Sex offender registry data is kept separately and requires a different search.
What’s Not Included
- Arrests without conviction
- Charges dropped or dismissed
- Juvenile records
- Sealed or expunged cases
- Federal crimes (handled by FBI)
- Traffic violations (unless felony)
Expungement and Record Sealing in Hawaii
Hawaii allows some criminal records to be expunged or sealed under specific conditions. Expungement removes the record entirely, as if it never happened. Sealing hides it from public view but keeps it accessible to law enforcement. Eligibility depends on the crime, sentence, and time passed. For example, non-violent misdemeanors may be eligible after five years. Felonies have stricter rules. The Expungements Help Desk at (808) 587-3348 provides free guidance. Applicants must file a petition in court and attend a hearing. If approved, the HCJDC updates its database within 30 days.
Steps to Expunge a Record
- Contact the Expungements Help Desk to check eligibility
- Gather court documents and proof of completion
- File a petition in the circuit court where convicted
- Attend the scheduled hearing
- Receive the court order if approved
- Send the order to HCJDC for processing
Sex Offender Registry and VINELink
The Hawaii Sex Offender Registry is separate from general criminal records. It includes only individuals convicted of qualifying sex crimes. The public can search it for free online. VINELink offers real-time custody alerts for victims. Users register with the offender’s name and details. They receive phone, text, or email alerts when the person is arrested, released, or transferred. This service is free and available 24/7. The mobile app works on iOS and Android. It also provides case summaries and contact info for supervising agencies.
Inmate Search and Jail Information
Current inmates in Hawaii can be found through multiple sources. The Honolulu Police Department’s website has a live jail roster updated every four hours. Users search by name or booking number. Results show mugshots, charges, booking date, and court schedule. StateCourts.org and StateRecords.org also list inmates across all eight facilities. These include four jails (Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island, Kauai) and four prisons (Halawa, Waiawa, Makalapa, Hilo). Each site shows housing location, release date, and visitation rules.
Department of Public Safety Facilities
The Hawaii Department of Public Safety manages all state correctional facilities. Jails hold pretrial detainees and short-term sentences (up to 90 days). Prisons house long-term felony inmates. All facilities follow strict health, safety, and classification standards. Educational and vocational programs are offered to reduce recidivism. Visitation requires advance approval and ID. Rules vary by location, so check the official site before visiting.
Contact Information and Office Hours
For help with criminal records checks, call the HCJDC main line at (808) 587-3100. Specific units have dedicated numbers: Criminal History Record Checks at (808) 587-3279, Sex Offender Registration at (808) 587-3350, and Expungements at (808) 587-3348. All lines operate Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. HST. The main office at 465 S. King Street, Room 102, Honolulu, is open during the same hours. Walk-ins are welcome, but calling ahead is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about Hawaii criminal records checks. Below are the most common ones, answered clearly and directly based on official state guidelines and recent updates.
Can I get someone else’s criminal record without their permission?
No. Hawaii law requires written consent from the person being checked, unless you are an authorized government agency or licensing board. Unauthorized access is a violation of privacy laws and can result in fines or legal action. Always obtain a signed HCJDC-073 form before requesting a third-party record.
How far back do Hawaii criminal records go?
Hawaii’s criminal history database includes convictions from January 1, 1975, to the present. Arrests without convictions are not stored. Records older than 1975 may exist in paper files but are not searchable through eCrim or public terminals.
Will a misdemeanor show up on a background check?
Yes, if it resulted in a conviction. Misdemeanors are included in Hawaii criminal records checks. However, minor traffic violations (like speeding) are not unless they are classified as felonies.
Can I correct an error on my criminal record?
Yes. If you find inaccurate information, contact the HCJDC immediately at (808) 587-3279. Provide proof of the error, such as a court dismissal order. The center will investigate and correct the record within 30 days if the claim is valid.
Is the eCrim portal safe to use?
Yes. The eCrim system uses encryption, secure login, and government-grade servers. Your payment and personal data are protected. Only authorized users can view results, and all activity is logged for security.
Do I need a lawyer to request a criminal record?
No. Anyone can request their own record or submit a check for an employee with consent. Lawyers are not required, but they may help with complex cases like expungement or record disputes.
What if no record is found?
If no conviction is found, the system returns a “no record” response. This is common for people with clean histories. You still pay the search fee, as the work was performed.
Official Website: ag.hawaii.gov/hcjdc
Phone: (808) 587-3279
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. HST
Address: 465 S. King Street, Room 102, Honolulu, HI 96813
