Many employers assume that a National Criminal Database search checks every criminal record in the country. In reality, criminal records are primarily stored at the county courthouse where the case was filed. Therefore, different types of searches serve different purposes.
Understanding the difference between a National Criminal Database search and a County Criminal search can help employers build a more accurate and reliable screening process.
What Is a National Criminal Database Search?
A National Criminal Database search scans a large collection of criminal record data gathered from multiple jurisdictions across the country.
These searches are popular because they are fast and provide broad coverage. In most cases, results are returned instantly and can help identify possible criminal records associated with an applicant.
However, database searches rely on aggregated data sources. This means they may not always contain the most current or complete information.
For this reason, database searches are commonly used as a locator tool—helping identify jurisdictions where additional verification may be needed.
What Is an Unlimited County Criminal Search?
A County Criminal search examines records directly from county court systems. This is where most criminal cases are filed and maintained.
Unlike database searches, county searches access records at the source, providing more accurate and up-to-date information.
Our 7-Year Unlimited County Criminal Search automatically checks all counties associated with an applicant’s address history for the past seven years. It uses the individual’s full legal name.
Because county court systems typically index records by name, this search only requires the applicant’s primary legal name. Moreover, it provides a thorough review of jurisdictions tied to their known residence history.
Why Many Employers Use Both Searches
Each search plays a different role in the screening process:
National Criminal Database Search
- Fast results
- Broad nationwide coverage
- Helpful for identifying potential records
County Criminal Search
- Searches records at the court source
- Provides the most accurate and current information
- Confirms reportable criminal history
Using both searches together helps employers balance speed, coverage, and accuracy.
Building a Stronger Screening Strategy
For many organizations, the most effective approach is a layered screening strategy:
1️⃣ Start with a National Criminal Database search to scan for potential records nationwide.
2️⃣ Use a County Criminal search to verify and review records directly at the court level.
This combination helps reduce the risk of missed records while supporting more confident hiring decisions.
How The Screening Source Helps
At The Screening Source, we work with employers to choose the right screening tools based on their hiring needs. Our à la carte approach allows clients to add the searches that make sense for each role. Therefore, clients are not locked into bundled packages or unnecessary services.
If you’d like help reviewing your current screening process or determining whether adding county searches could improve coverage, we’re always happy to help.
