Start at the county level for detailed case records — charges, hearings, dispositions. Only use the state repository if you need statewide conviction history. For current inmates, go directly to the county sheriff or state corrections department.
⚠ There is no single database for all Iowa criminal records — records are split across county and state systems.
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Use the databases below to search Iowa criminal records.
Search Iowa by Record Type
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I search Iowa criminal records? ▼
Don't guess which system to use. Start with the strategy box at the top of this page — it tells you exactly which Iowa criminal record databases to search and in what order. Each office maintains its own records independently.
Is there a single database for all Iowa criminal records? ▼
No. There is no single database for all Iowa criminal records. Court records, arrest records, inmate records, and sex offender records are each maintained by different offices. Use the databases listed on this page to search the correct system.
Why does my Iowa criminal search return no results? ▼
You are almost certainly searching the wrong system. Criminal records in Iowa are split across multiple offices. If one database returns nothing, switch to the next system listed on this page.