Arkansas Background Check & Apostille Guide

Issuing agency

Arkansas State Police — Identification Bureau

Steps to request and apostille your record

1. STEP 1Request Your Background Check

   • Arkansas state background checks are processed by the Arkansas State Police Identification Bureau.
   • You can request a name-based background check online through the Arkansas Online Criminal Background Check System at cbc.ark.org. The cost is $22 per report.
   • A fingerprint card is NOT required if you only need an Arkansas state background check. However, if you need a combined state and federal (FBI) check, fingerprints will be required.
   • For the name-based check, complete the online form at cbc.ark.org. You can also submit a mail-in request using Form ASP-122 from the Arkansas State Police website.
   • Mail requests to: Arkansas State Police, Identification Bureau, #1 State Police Plaza Drive, Little Rock, AR 72209.

2. STEP 2Receive Your Results

   • Online name-based checks typically return results within 5-10 business days.
   • You will receive an email notification when your results are ready.
   • The report is available as a printable document. Ensure you receive or print an official copy suitable for apostille processing.

3. STEP 3Apostille Your Background Check

   • Submit the original document to the Arkansas Secretary of State for apostille.
   • The fee is $10.00 per apostille. Payment can be made by check or money order payable to 'Arkansas Secretary of State.'
   • Mail your document and fee to: Arkansas Secretary of State, Business and Commercial Services Division, 1401 W. Capitol, Suite 250, Little Rock, AR 72201.
   • Processing takes approximately 2 business days. Online apostille requests are also available through the Secretary of State's filing portal.

4. STEP 4Translate via EcuadorTranslations.com

   • After your document is apostilled, submit it to EcuadorTranslations.com for certified Spanish translation and notarization.
   • Upload a clear scan or photo of your apostilled background check through the EcuadorTranslations.com order form.
   • Cost: $150 per document ($130 each when ordering 3 or more documents). Turnaround: 3 business days.
   • Your translated and notarized document will be delivered digitally, ready for your Ecuador visa application.

Apostille authority

Key notes

• Arkansas is one of the few states where a fingerprint card is NOT required for a state-only background check.
• The online system at cbc.ark.org is the fastest option — no mailing required for the background check itself.
• Arkansas has a fast apostille turnaround (2 business days) and offers an online filing portal.
• For questions, contact the Identification Bureau at (501) 618-8500 or the Secretary of State at (501) 682-3409.

Sources and verification