7 Best Texas Background Check Services You Need to Know 2025

When looking to run a background check in Texas, this guide is your ideal starting point. It provides a comprehensive breakdown of the process and showcases the best services that streamline the task efficiently.

Although public records for background checks in Texas are available, sifting through vast amounts of information to find what you need can be overwhelming.

The Texas background check services we suggest excel in offering fast, accurate, and relevant results, helping you avoid hassle and save valuable time.

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7 Best Texas Background Check Services

BeenVerified – Best Background Check in Texas Overall
PeopleLooker – Best for Quick & Detailed Results
TruthFinder – Best Value for Money
Intelius – Best for Reliability
Instant Checkmate – Best for Speed
Spokeo – Best for TX Reverse Email Address Lookup
US Search – Best for API Integration

What Is a Texas Background Check?

Performing an in-depth review of an individual's information through state and federal public records is often known as a Texas background check. By using identifying details such as a name, phone number, or email address, one can conduct a comprehensive public record search.

A Texas public records search may reveal various types of information, such as personal data, academic and job history, known relatives and associates, previous addresses, criminal and traffic offenses, court records, sex offender status, social media profiles, and property ownership records.

Searching public records on your own can be time-consuming and may not yield comprehensive results. In Texas, using a background check service is a more reliable method for accessing thorough background details on an individual.

Texas background check providers use the information you provide to scan vast state and federal public record databases and collect relevant data.

The findings are then compiled into a well-structured Texas background check report that’s easy to understand and share with others.

A typical Texas background check report may include:

Work experience history
Online profiles and activity
Academic qualifications and institutions
Firearm license information
Documents from civil court proceedings
Details of financial background
Records of criminal charges and traffic violations
Information on potential arrests
Complete legal identity
Linked images and photographs

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How to Run a Texas Background Check?

Conducting a background check in Texas can take one of two paths: straightforward or challenging. The difficult method requires reaching out to public agencies, submitting formal record requests, and combing through data by hand to uncover the necessary information.

The easier alternative is to use a people search site such as BeenVerified, PeopleLooker, or TruthFinder. With just a name, city, phone number, or email address, these platforms deliver reliable and verified results in a matter of minutes.

How Can I Access Public Records in Texas?

Individuals seeking access to government information can use the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). It’s important to review applicable laws beforehand, as procedures vary from state to state.

In Texas, certain public records are available through online databases, but others must be requested formally. Submission methods depend on the agency and may include mail, email, or fax.

Different departments may follow unique procedures, so being adaptable is important. To make sure your public records request is handled efficiently, be sure to include all critical information, such as:

The requested delivery date for the documents
Name of the document owner
Name or title of the file
Your contact details
Preferred method of delivery (mail or email)
Clear and specific description of the document
Accurate and complete details help prevent unnecessary processing delays

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Texas Background Check Laws – TX Public Records

Although Texas doesn’t enforce state-specific limits on using candidates' criminal or traffic records in hiring, federal fair hiring laws remain in effect. Employers in Texas must give written notice and secure written consent from applicants prior to performing background checks.

If a criminal background check results in a possible adverse hiring decision, employers are obligated to send a pre-adverse action notice and provide the applicant with a minimum of five business days to respond.

For government agencies and federal contractors, ban-the-box regulations restrict asking about a candidate’s criminal background until a conditional job offer has been extended, except when the position involves national security or when early screening is required by law.

Under federal ban-the-box guidelines, inquiries about a candidate’s criminal or traffic history are barred prior to a conditional offer, unless the role mandates pre-offer background checks.

In Texas, certain counties and cities have implemented their own ban-the-box regulations, as noted in the referenced materials. Employers are required to comply with the most rigorous rules that apply both to the location of the employer’s headquarters and to where the applicant resides.

To prevent legal issues, companies should consistently follow the strictest laws relevant to their background check procedures.

Ban the Box – Background Check Texas Law

While Texas doesn’t have statewide legislation requiring employers to implement "ban the box" policies, several local jurisdictions within the state have introduced fair chance hiring ordinances that regulate the use of background checks during recruitment.

For instance, San Antonio, Travis County, and Dallas County have established rules that prevent the use of the box in hiring for municipal or county positions. Austin goes further by enforcing a "ban the box" policy that covers both public and private employers. According to Austin’s regulation, private companies with more than 15 employees are barred from performing background checks during the initial application stage.

In Austin, employers are only allowed to conduct background checks once a conditional job offer has been made. Those who fail to comply with this regulation could be subject to fines reaching up to $500.

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What Does the Texas Public Records Law Say?

In Texas, the Freedom of Information Act allows individuals to access public records and documents. Usually, these records are provided within ten days, or the requester receives a written notice outlining an estimated timeframe for when the information will be available.

When a government agency denies a request, it must file a formal exception with the attorney general to prevent immediate dismissal of the inquiry. The attorney general then reviews the case and decides if the records should be released. This review process can extend the timeline, as the attorney general has up to 45 days to issue a response in denial cases.

Although many records from state and federal agencies are available to the public, the Texas Public Records Act includes exceptions. Certain judicial documents and specific audit-related materials may be withheld due to confidentiality or security reasons.

In Texas, there is no formal appeal process for denied requests; however, individuals can seek access to these records by pursuing legal action.

How Far Back Does a Background Check Go in Texas?

When reviewing an individual’s history, a CRA’s capabilities are confined by both time limits and the scope of their investigation. In Texas, background checks for employment purposes remain valid for up to seven years and only affect reports if they include tax liens, lawsuits, or court judgments.

Bankruptcy records can be accessed for up to 10 years. In Texas, companies are required to review criminal and traffic records dating back 20 years for felonies and 10 years for misdemeanors for applicants who will have direct contact with customers in their homes.

When applying for a job with a salary exceeding $75,000 annually, employers may review an applicant’s records dating back to their 18th birthday when performing non-criminal and traffic background checks.

In Texas, Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs) typically cover the past three years. Employers conducting background checks on their own, rather than using a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA), are not bound by the usual seven-year reporting limit.

There is no statute of limitations in Texas for verifying a candidate’s previous employment or education, allowing these checks to extend without restriction.

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What Can You Find With a Background Check Texas?

You may find it surprising just how much a thorough background check in Texas can reveal about someone. Reliable people search services such as BeenVerified or PeopleLooker provide in-depth background reports for Texas residents, typically covering these important details.

Personal Information

In Texas, a standard free background check provides personal information like an individual's full name, age, birthdate, any known aliases, and photographs to verify their identity. These details play a crucial role in confirming identification.

Jobs and Education

A background check might also uncover an individual’s academic and career background, including schools attended, from elementary through college, and past employment positions.

That said, it’s essential to understand that this data cannot be utilized for hiring or tenant screening unless the service follows the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) guidelines.

Possible Relatives and Associates

This part showcases potential links, such as possible family members, friends, or colleagues associated with the person. At times, when exploring someone’s connections, you may come across your own information during a complimentary background check in Texas.

TX Contact Information

When conducting background checks in Texas, you might find phone numbers and email addresses useful for those looking for contact information.

TX Criminal and Traffic Records

A thorough Texas background check generally covers criminal and traffic records obtained from state police and court databases. These documents usually provide details such as offense type, date, location, case number, and court data, delivering important information for complete investigations.

TX Property Information

Records related to property offer crucial insights when assessing an individual’s financial situation. This part includes information like current ownership of real estate, tax documentation, sale prices, land valuations, existing mortgage balances, vehicles owned, and their associated identification numbers.

How Long Does a Background Check Take in Texas?

The duration of a Texas background check depends on the method chosen. Using trusted online platforms like BeenVerified or TruthFinder can yield comprehensive reports in just minutes, offering fast and thorough results with minimal hassle.

On the other hand, a manual Texas background check may require up to three business days, depending on the complexity of the request and the accessibility of the records.

7 Best Services for Background Checks in Texas

Performing a background check in Texas is straightforward with the help of online background check services. Now, let’s dive into the top seven platforms available.

We’ll take a closer look at each of these services to understand what makes them unique and how they meet various needs. When carrying out background checks in Texas, it’s essential to assess which people search sites align best with your particular goals.

BeenVerified – Best Background Check Texas Overall

A trusted resource for conducting background checks in Texas, BeenVerified provides access to a variety of search options, including criminal history, court records, traffic violations, and more. With billions of public records gathered from trusted sources, the platform offers in-depth insights into an individual’s background.

Built with usability in mind, the platform features a simple interface and easy-to-follow instructions for viewing reports. Its intuitive design ensures that users enjoy a smooth and effective search experience from start to finish.

With flexible pricing options like monthly subscriptions and pay-per-search plans, BeenVerified remains accessible even to users with limited budgets.

The company also provides dedicated customer support to help with any questions or concerns throughout the Texas background check process. Their experienced team is ready to guide users through each step with reliable assistance.

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PeopleLooker – Best Background Check Texas for Quick & Detailed Results

PeopleLooker is one of the best background check services in Texas, offering a wide range of searches such as criminal and traffic records, court documents, public records, and more.

By tapping into an extensive database of public records across Texas, PeopleLooker delivers reliable, detailed reports sourced from trustworthy information, ensuring a comprehensive view of an individual’s history.

One of the main strengths of PeopleLooker lies in its easy-to-navigate platform, which enables users to perform quick and hassle-free searches. The interface is designed with simplicity in mind, featuring a straightforward search tool and clear directions for accessing reports. For budget-conscious users, PeopleLooker provides flexible pricing plans, including pay-per-search options and affordable monthly subscriptions.

Support is readily available at PeopleLooker to help with any questions or concerns during the background check process. Their knowledgeable team helps users navigate the platform effectively and understand the information in reports, ensuring they maximize the value of the service.

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TruthFinder – Best Texas Background Check Service for Value

For those seeking Texas background checks, TruthFinder is one of the best options available. Its intuitive platform allows users to conduct searches with simple details such as names, phone numbers, or email addresses.

By accessing comprehensive Texas public records, TruthFinder delivers abundant information on individuals, frequently offering more than other online services. Moreover, their background check package includes an optional dark web monitoring feature for enhanced security.

TruthFinder’s pricing includes a monthly subscription at $ 28.33 or a 2-month plan at $23.52 per month, billed at $46.56 every two months, offering flexibility based on your needs.

DISCLAIMER: You may not use TruthFinder or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. TruthFinder does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., ("FCRA"), which are incorporated herein by reference.)"

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Intelius – Best Texas Background Check Service for Reliability

For those looking to perform background checks in Texas, Intelius stands out as a reliable choice comparable to TruthFinder. This nationwide people search platform is known for delivering accurate results through an easy-to-navigate process.

A notable distinction lies in Intelius’ pricing structure. It provides a monthly subscription at a modest rate of $25.11 per month. Choosing the two-month option lowers the monthly fee to $21.35, billed as $42.25 every two months.

DISCLAIMER: You may not use Intelius or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. TruthFinder does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., ("FCRA"), which are incorporated herein by reference.)"

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Instant Checkmate – Best TX Background Check Service for Speed

For those seeking fast Texas background check results, Instant Checkmate offers a dependable option. Its standout feature is the convenience of a mobile app paired with instant report delivery, a rarity among similar services.

The platform compiles information from a wide array of sources, including public records and official documents, to provide comprehensive background reports. On the downside, its pricing is on the higher side: a monthly subscription costs $35.47, and although there’s no two-month plan, a three-month package is offered at $28.38 per month, charged as $84.28 every three months.

DISCLAIMER: You may not use Instant Checkmate or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. Instant Checkmate is not a consumer reporting agency and does not provide consumer reports. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., ("FCRA"), which are incorporated herein by reference.)"

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Spokeo – Best Texas Background Check Service for Reverse Email Address Lookup

Spokeo features a range of search options, such as email, name, phone number, and physical address lookups, making it a trusted tool for performing background checks in Texas. With a monthly subscription priced at $19.99, it stands out as one of the most budget-friendly options available.

For greater savings, Spokeo also offers a three-month plan for $44.85, reinforcing its status as an affordable and dependable choice for background checks in the Lone Star State.

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US Search – Best Texas Background Check Service for API Integration

US Search offers a quick-start wizard that streamlines background checks, making the process easy for users of all experience levels. It stands out as one of the few services that provide a money-back guarantee if the results don’t satisfy your needs.

Its user-friendly online interface is simpler than many competitors, making it a great choice for those specifically needing background checks in Texas. At $19.86 per month, the subscription delivers excellent value for individuals planning multiple searches or looking for a long-term option.

DISCLAIMER: You may not use US Search or the information it provides to make decisions about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. US Search does not provide consumer reports and is not a consumer reporting agency. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., ("FCRA"), which are incorporated herein by reference.)"

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Texas Criminal and Traffic Records – Background Check Texas

In Texas, records of criminal and traffic offenses usually encompass arrests, convictions, and judgments for crimes ranked as Class B misdemeanors or above. Managed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), these records offer a detailed overview of a person’s law enforcement history throughout the state.

What’s on a Texas Criminal & Traffic Record?

Encounters with law enforcement agencies across Texas are recorded in criminal and traffic records. These records compile data from multiple justice system entities within the state and can encompass:

Detentions
Legal verdicts
Incarceration periods
Contacts with additional law enforcement departments

Where Can I Find Texas Criminal & Traffic Records?

These records are available through the Texas DPS Criminal Records Division using their online platform. To begin a search, you need to provide basic information, including:

Complete name
Email
Contact number
Mailing address
Payment details

If no records exist, no fees will be charged.

Restrictions and Limitations

As with every state in the U.S., Texas enforces regulations on how employers can use criminal and traffic records in hiring decisions. Employers need to be aware of:

Restricted Records: Inquiries about sealed or expunged records are prohibited for employers.
Criminal History Questions: Employers are permitted to request criminal history information, but must do so in accordance with relevant laws.
Human Rights Concerns: Concerns have been raised by advocacy groups about using criminal history to screen out candidates, particularly for arrests that didn’t lead to convictions. Employers are advised to verify if an arrest resulted in formal charges or a conviction before proceeding with hiring.

Arrest and Conviction Records

In Texas, employers are permitted to ask about criminal histories, but it’s essential to handle this process thoughtfully:

An arrest by itself doesn’t prove guilt and should never be the only reason for disqualification.
Employers need to stay updated on the legal complexities of background checks to maintain compliance and promote fair hiring practices.

Grasping the extent and restrictions of Texas criminal and traffic records is vital for both job seekers and employers during the recruitment process.

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Texas Inmate Records – Background Check Texas

In 2017, Texas housed more than 1.4 million individuals across its 700 jails and prisons, creating a complex landscape for inmate record searches. The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) manages these records, which contain essential information about inmates.

What’s on a Texas Inmate Record?

Inmate records accessible to the public differ across states but typically contain:

Physical attributes (such as height and weight)
Birthdate information
Sentencing location
Booking photo
Known aliases or alternative names
Department of Corrections (DOC) ID or Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) number
Overview of the judicial sentence

Where Can I Find Texas Inmate Records?

To access inmate records:

Access inmate records by navigating to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice’s Inmate Information Search page
Input the inmate’s full name, TDCJ number, or Statewide Identification (SID) number
For more accurate results, you may optionally include race and ethnicity details

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Texas Court Records – Background Check Texas

Texas’s judicial structure features a range of courts, each designated to handle particular case types within a layered hierarchy. These court records are frequently crucial for background checks, yet navigating the system to find them can be difficult due to its intricate organization.

Types of Texas Courts

Local Courts: Every one of Texas's 254 counties is served by a court with a designated judge
Probate Courts: Manage wills, estates, guardianships, and mental health concerns
Criminal Courts of Appeals: Address violations of criminal law
Courts of Appeals: Fourteen appellate courts that review decisions from lower courts
Supreme Court of Texas: Establishes rules for lower courts and examines appeals
Trial or District Courts: Handle cases involving civil, family, criminal, and juvenile matters

What’s on a Texas Court Record?

Court records can differ depending on the case, but they often contain the following information:

Full names and any known aliases
Physical details such as height and weight
Booking photos
Birthdates
Orders related to child support
Summaries of judicial sentencing decisions

Where Can I Find Texas Court Records?

To obtain these records:

Fill out the Texas Records Application Request form, including:
Full name
Mailing address
Contact phone number
Email address
Specific details about the records being requested

You can request county records by contacting the County Clerk’s Office or reaching out directly to the County Clerk.

Texas Vital Records – Background Check Texas

The Texas Department of State Health Services (TDHHS) is the main agency responsible for providing certified copies of vital records, including marriage and death certificates, in Texas.

The specific information needed for a Texas public records request involving vital records depends on the type of record being requested.

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Background Check Texas - Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some frequently asked questions about background checks in Texas. If you haven’t found the information you need yet, these answers could provide the details you’re looking for.

Can I Get a Free Background Check in Texas?

Locating a genuinely free and trustworthy background check service in Texas proves to be challenging due to the sheer volume of data involved. Although many platforms claim to offer free background checks, it’s crucial to approach them with caution since most lack accuracy and reliability. Opting for a reputable premium service like BeenVerified provides dependable information and comprehensive reports.

How Much Is a Background Check in Texas?

Services like BeenVerified and PeopleLooker offer premium background checks with monthly subscription fees of approximately $24 and $28, respectively. These subscriptions provide unlimited background checks, making them a cost-effective option for those who perform frequent searches.

Can a Background Check TX Request Be Submitted by Non-Residents of Texas?

You don’t have to live in Texas to request official records. Under Texas law, public information is accessible to anyone, no matter where they’re located.

Is There a Records Custodian in Texas?

Texas would benefit from a centralized records custodian. Currently, each government agency manages its own records, so depending on the information you need, you may have to reach out to several different agencies.

What Exemptions Exist for Background Check Texas?

In Texas, certain types of records are exempt from public disclosure to protect privacy and comply with legal requirements. Restricted information includes:

Court records are not required to be accessible to the public
Personal medical or psychological information is kept confidential
Proprietary trade secrets are protected from disclosure
Educational records of students are safeguarded
Credit card details are strictly private
The identities of crime victims and survivors of abuse are shielded to ensure their privacy

How Long Does Texas Have to Respond to a Background Check Texas Request?

When a background check request is submitted under the Texas Public Information Act, agencies have a 10-day window to respond. Should they be unable to fulfill the request within this timeframe, they’re obligated to explain the delay and outline when the information will be ready.

What Fees Are Associated With Requesting a Background Check Texas?

Texas permits agencies to charge reasonable fees for copying and processing public record requests. These fees may include:

For requests under 50 pages: $0.10 per page for photocopying
For requests exceeding 50 pages: An additional labor fee of $15.00 per hour may apply
For records stored at multiple locations: Additional fees may be charged for retrieval from separate sites

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Bottom Line on Background Check in Texas

Background checks in Texas are useful for verifying information, reconnecting with individuals, or performing due diligence. However, the process can be complicated, requiring contact with various agencies, payment of fees, and manual data review.

Using a trusted background check service streamlines this task. Platforms like BeenVerified enable you to obtain detailed reports quickly by entering basic information such as a name, phone number, email, or address. These tools save time and improve accuracy, making them an effective option for most users.

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All product names, logos, brands, trademarks, and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

DISCLAIMER: You may not use the non-FCRA approved services mentioned in this article or the information they provide to decide about consumer credit, employment, insurance, tenant screening, or any other purpose that would require FCRA compliance. These services don’t provide consumer reports and are not consumer reporting agencies. (These terms have special meanings under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq., (“FCRA”), which are incorporated herein by reference.)

The information available on our website may not be 100% accurate, complete, or up to date, so do not use it as a substitute for your own due diligence, especially if you have concerns about a person’s criminal history. The services we mention do not make any representation or warranty about the accuracy of the information available through our website or about the character or integrity of the person about whom you inquire. For more information, please review each service’s Terms of Use.