Illinois UCIA • Public Conviction Information

Illinois UCIA Background Checks

UCIA lets the public request Illinois conviction information from the Illinois State Police (ISP). Use this page to learn how UCIA works and to submit a request to NexGen.

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What is UCIA?

UCIA stands for the Uniform Conviction Information Act. It permits release of conviction information only from ISP’s criminal history files. It does not include arrests without conviction, sealed/expunged records, or juvenile records.

For a full copy of your Illinois record to review or challenge, see our Access & Review service (separate process).

Who Can Use It?

UCIA is available to the general public—including individuals, employers, licensing boards, schools, and nonprofits—when permitted by law or policy.

Individuals (self-check / personal needs)
Employers & HR (screening where allowed)
Licensing & certification boards
Schools & volunteer coordinators

Benefits & When to Use

Conviction-only snapshot from ISP
Faster and often lower cost than full record processes
Name-based (CHIRP) or Fingerprint-based options
Useful for basic screening or self-checks

Fingerprint-based UCIA is the most conclusive match method.

Name vs. Fingerprint

Name-based (CHIRP): legal name + DOB + sex + race. Quick, but may be less conclusive for common names.
Fingerprint-based (Live Scan): highest match confidence; recommended when certainty matters.

Book Live Scan Request Mobile Team

What UCIA Shows

Conviction details on file with ISP
Charge/disposition and sentencing info linked to the conviction

Not included: non-convictions, sealed/expunged, juvenile records, or out-of-state records.

UCIA Request — Start Here

Submitting as

Individual Employer/Agency

Type of UCIA background check

Name-based (CHIRP) Fingerprint-based (Live Scan)

Name-based uses full legal name + DOB + sex + race. Fingerprint-based is the most conclusive.

Subject Information

Last name*

First name*

Middle name

All prior/maiden names or aliases

Date of birth*

Sex*

Race*

Last 4 of SSN (optional)

Phone*

Email*

Current street address*

Prior addresses (last 5 years)

ID type (DL/ID/Passport)

ID number

Name-Based (CHIRP) Confirmation

I confirm the name, DOB, sex, and race above are complete and accurate for a UCIA name-based search.

Purpose & Acknowledgments

Purpose of request*

Other (if selected)

I authorize NexGen Biometrics Chicago to collect my fingerprints or submit a UCIA name inquiry to the Illinois State Police (ISP) for the purpose stated. I understand UCIA provides conviction information only and that fingerprint-based checks are the most conclusive. I understand ISP processing and mailing times are controlled by ISP, not NexGen. I will keep my TCN to track status. I authorize dissemination of results to the requestor as permitted by law. I understand subsequent dissemination is time-limited.

Electronic signature (type full legal name)*

Today’s date*

This page is informational and does not replace ISP’s official guidance. Requirements may change.