How to Find Out the Details of Your Criminal Convictions
- Rik
- Feb 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 28
If you have a criminal record, you may need to access the details of your convictions for various reasons, such as job applications, travel, or personal records. You will also need the details in order to use our Disclosure Calculator to work out when your conviction becomes/became spent in law and in drafting a Disclosure Letter or Statement. Understanding what is recorded against your name can help you make informed decisions and prepare for situations where disclosure may be necessary.
Here are the key ways you can obtain this information in the UK:
1. Subject Access Request: Police Records
A Subject Access Request (SAR) allows you to request a copy of the personal data held about you by the police. This includes any criminal record information held on the Police National Computer (PNC). You can apply for this free of charge through your local police force’s website or the ACRO Criminal Records Office.
How to apply:
Visit the ACRO website or your local police force’s website.
Fill in the online application form.
Provide proof of identity (such as a passport or driving licence).
Receive a response within 30 days.
2. Asking Your Probation Officer (If on Licence)
If you are currently on licence or under probation supervision, your probation officer should have access to your conviction details. They can provide guidance on your record and help you understand any conditions attached to your supervision.
How to request:
Arrange a meeting with your probation officer or raise it at one of your scheduled meetings.
Ask for a summary of your criminal record and explain that you need this to accurately and lawfully disclose.
Discuss any concerns regarding disclosure requirements.
3. Contacting Your PPU/MOSOVO Police Officer (If Under Supervision)
If you are managed under a Public Protection Unit (PPU) or the Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements (MAPPA), you may have a designated officer, such as a MOSOVO (Management of Sexual or Violent Offenders) police officer. They can provide information regarding any restrictions or conditions attached to your conviction.
How to proceed:
Contact your supervising police officer.
Request information about your record and any applicable conditions.
4. Asking the Court Where You Were Convicted
If you need details of a specific conviction, you can request records from the court where you were sentenced. Courts generally keep records of cases for several years, though access may depend on the age of the case.
Steps to follow:
Identify the court where you were convicted.
Contact the court’s records office.
Request a copy of your case details (a fee may apply in some instances).
5. Enquiring at Your Local Police Station
Your local police station may be able to provide you with a copy of your criminal record details. While they do not always have direct access to conviction records, they can advise on the best route to obtain them.
How to ask:
Visit your local police station.
Ask to speak to an officer about obtaining your criminal record.
Follow their instructions on submitting a request.
6. Requesting a Basic DBS Check
A Basic Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check provides information on unspent convictions. This is useful if you need to know what will appear on a background check for employment purposes.
How to apply:
REMEMBER: Minor motoring offences are not recorded on the Police National Computer and will therefore not show on your formal criminal record. To obtain details of motoring endorsements such as speeding points and use of a mobile phone while driving you will need to contact the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA) or access your driving licence records online via .GOV.UK and look for “Penalties and Endorsements”.
Understanding your criminal record is an important step in moving forward and making informed choices. Whether you need this information for employment, legal matters, or personal awareness, the options listed above provide different ways to access your records.
If you are unsure about which route to take, seeking legal advice or speaking to a trusted organisation that supports individuals with convictions can help guide you through the process.