What Is a Criminal Database Search? (And Why It Should Be Your First Step)
When you’re hiring, you want to be confident in who you’re bringing onto your team. That starts with a reliable, layered background check—and at the core of that process is the Criminal Database Search.
But what exactly is a Criminal Database Search?
The “Shotgun” Approach to Screening
Think of a criminal database search as a shotgun-style sweep. It scans a vast network of sources from across the country, including:
- Multi-state criminal record repositories
- Department of Corrections data
- Sex offender registries
- Court records and warrant databases
- OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) and international security watchlists
It’s broad, fast, and searches states across the country in an instant. But it’s not perfect—there’s no such thing as a true “national criminal database” that catches everything. These databases rely on records submitted by thousands of jurisdictions, and not all counties report consistently or in real time. That’s why the database search is a critical first step—but never the whole strategy.
What Comes Next: Fill in the Gaps
After that initial broad sweep, the next step is accuracy and depth. NCS follows up with statewide and county-level criminal searches, focusing on places the applicant has lived and verifying any potential criminal hits. These targeted searches dig directly into local court systems and provide the most accurate, real-time information available.
This two-step process—start broad, then go deep—offers the best combination of speed, coverage, and reliability in any pre-employment screening strategy.
➡️ Want to learn why the Criminal Database Search is so essential to the hiring process?
Read: Why should I include a Criminal Database Search in a background check?
Why NCS?
Fast, compliant, and affordable background checks—powered by real people who care.
At National Crime Search, we’ve built our screening packages to reflect how real hiring decisions are made.
- Every Featured Criminal Package includes our Multi-State Criminal Database Search up front
- We automatically handle follow-up searches based on the applicant’s address history and any potential criminal hits—ensuring a complete and accurate report
- Our system refreshes in real time from thousands of trusted sources
If you’re ready to simplify your background check process while improving compliance and accuracy, NCS is your trusted partner.
Make Safer Hiring Decisions With NCS
Whether you’re screening one candidate or building out a team, NCS helps you start smart and stay protected. With real-time data, intelligent follow-ups, and live support when you need it, our background screening solutions are designed to keep your business moving.
Start with a smarter search. Stay compliant. Hire with confidence.
