Online Direct Access
The NYS Office of Court Administration's (OCA) Criminal History Record Search (CHRS) online application called "Direct Access" is available for business entities and corporations on a 24/7 basis. Access to this online application requires previous use of this service within the last 6 months totaling, at a minimum, 5 to 10 search requests.
Direct Access allows users to key the individual(s) full Name and DOB (both are required) and start the initial phase of the search process. Direct Access also allows users to check the status of their current search requests and review past requests for the last six months. Background checks for companies are also part of the CHRS program. CHRS results are verified, reviewed, amended, if necessary, and emailed to our customers with a typical turnaround time of four to five hours. CHRS requests reporting No Results Found are returned in Real Time. However, the entire search request is withheld for review if one or more names result in a record.
The cost for a NYS OCA Criminal History Record Search request is $65.00. Payment is made at the time of the request via JP Morgan Chase's Pay Connexion On-line payment process (includes a convenience fee which is separate from the cost of the search) by using your Checking Account (ACH) or Debit/Credit Card.
To apply for this service, contact us at CHRS@nycourts.gov or call (212) 428-2916. More information regarding the Direct Access process is provided below via two links. The first link gives you a visual walk-thru of the entire search and payment process. The second link is an FAQ about JP Morgan’s Pay Connexion application.