> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.fraudcheck.co.za/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.fraudcheck.co.za/product/products/screening/criminal-records/standard.md).

# Standard criminal record check

Screens for criminal convictions and pending cases against the SAPS Criminal Record Database using fingerprints.

Screens a person for criminal convictions and pending criminal cases in South Africa by checking their identity details and fingerprints against the South African Police Service (SAPS) Criminal Record Database. Returns a plain-language outcome, an extract from the SAPS database and, on request, a full SAP69 report of the specific charges or convictions.

## How it works

Fingerprints are captured on an approved fingerprint device on your own premises. Once Fraudcheck holds a person's fingerprints from an earlier check, a further check can be submitted without capturing them again. For the device procedure, see [Criminal record checks with a fingerprint device](https://developer.fraudcheck.co.za/guides/criminal-record-checks).

If the person cannot get to a device, Fraudcheck can also arrange for their fingerprints to be taken at a participating PostNet or Jetline store. This runs as a separate criminal record product; contact your account manager if you need it.

**Criminal record SACE** runs the same check and also validates the person's registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE). It is designed for screening teachers and other educators, where SACE registration is required alongside a criminal record check. It is available at the Standard tier.

## Variants

| Variant                        | Turnaround  |
| ------------------------------ | ----------- |
| Criminal record: Standard      | 24–48 hours |
| Criminal record: Premium       | 4–6 hours   |
| Criminal record: Priority      | 1–2 hours   |
| Criminal record SACE: Standard | 24–48 hours |

## What it returns

An overall result and a Criminal Record Check report with the person's details (first name, surname, ID number, gender, date of birth, country of birth and address), a plain-language summary, and an extract from the SAPS database. The extract includes the search date and time, the person's identity and demographic details, whether previous charges were declared, the search type, the reason for the enquiry, where the fingerprints were captured, and the SAPS result. A full SAP69 report with charge or conviction detail can be requested separately.

## Inputs required

The person's first name, last name, ID number, date of birth and gender, the reason for the enquiry, the turnaround tier, and confirmation of consent. For a first check, all 10 fingerprints are also needed. If Fraudcheck already holds the person's fingerprints from an earlier check, a repeat check does not need them captured again.

## Data source

SAPS Criminal Record Database, through Afiswitch.

## Consent and permissible purpose

You must obtain the person's consent before running this check, and confirm on each request that you have it. You keep the proof of consent; Fraudcheck records that you confirmed it. See [Consent and permissible use](/product/overview/how-it-works/consent.md).

## Channels

Standard criminal record checks are not yet available as a form in the portal. Fraudcheck provides standalone documentation for capturing fingerprints and submitting checks; contact your account manager to get set up.

## Outcomes

* **No record found**: SAPS identified no previous convictions.
* **Record found**: SAPS identified a criminal record.
* **SAPS pending**: SAPS verification is still in progress.

## Turnaround

Depends on the variant: Standard 24–48 hours, Premium 4–6 hours, Priority 1–2 hours. A SAP69 report generally takes 6–8 weeks to be issued.

## When to use it

* Pre-employment screening to confirm a candidate has no undisclosed criminal history.
* Registration requirements that call for a criminal record check, such as SACE for educators or PSIRA for the security industry.
* Licence applications that call for a clean record, such as gambling or liquor licences.
* Corporate due diligence before a business decision.


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