How to Submit anApplication
There are two methods of requesting a Pennsylvania Criminal record:
Online Request
The Pennsylvania State Police have established a web-based computer application called"Pennsylvania Access To Criminal History(PATCH)". Results are often received immediately when applied for online.If results are not immediately received, please note the following:
- If you provide your e-mail address in the application, PATCH will send messages stating:
- If you do not provide an e-mail address, thenplease document thecontrol number so that you may log back into the PATCH system to obtain the clearance results when they are completed.
- That the clearance request was received; and
- Whenyourclearance results are completed and ready to be reviewed and printed.
Paper Request
If you need a paper version of the application, please complete the following steps:
- Go to"Pennsylvania Access to Criminal History (PATCH)"
- Go to the "Help" option on the top of the page
- When you hover over the "Help" option a drop down menu will appear
- Scroll down and click on the form that you want to review and print
Cost
- Free— Volunteers
- $22— Employees, Foster/Adoptive Parents
Questions
If you have questions about the Pennsylvania State Police Request for Criminal History Record Checkform for employment (SP4 164) or to volunteer (SP4-164A), please call: Toll-free 1-888-783-7972.
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS), which is in part comprised of the Office of Children, Youth, and Families (OCYF) complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.
