Connecticut Background Check & Apostille Guide

Issuing agency

Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) — State Police Bureau of Identification

Steps to request and apostille your record

1. STEP 1Request Your Background Check

   • Connecticut state background checks are processed by the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), State Police Bureau of Identification.
   • Complete the State of Connecticut Criminal History Record Request Form (DPS-846-C), available on the DESPP website.
   • You will need to be fingerprinted. Fingerprinting is available by appointment only at the DESPP office, Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM (excluding state holidays). You can also get fingerprinted at your local police department.
   • Fees: $75 for the State Criminal History Check, plus $15 if fingerprinted at the DESPP office.
   • Mail completed requests to: Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, State Police Bureau of Identification, 1111 Country Club Road, Middletown, CT 06457. Phone: (860) 685-8480.

2. STEP 2Receive Your Results

   • Processing time is typically 2-4 weeks for mail-in requests.
   • Results are mailed to the address you provided on your application.
   • The report is an official paper document from the Connecticut State Police.
   • Verify with DESPP at (860) 685-8480 for current processing times, as they can vary.

3. STEP 3Apostille Your Background Check

   • Submit the original document to the Connecticut Secretary of State for apostille.
   • As of September 2025, you must use the online apostille application system at sots.service.ct.gov/apostille — paper order forms are no longer accepted.
   • The fee is $40.00 per document, payable by check or money order to 'Connecticut Secretary of State.'
   • Standard processing takes 5-7 business days. Expedited processing (within 24 hours) is available for an additional fee.
   • For questions, contact the Authentications and Apostilles office at (860) 509-6100.

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

• Connecticut has the highest combined cost in this batch: $75 background check + $15 fingerprinting + $40 apostille = $130 before translation.
• Fingerprinting at DESPP is by appointment only — call (860) 685-8480 to schedule.
• Since September 2025, apostille requests must be submitted through the online system at sots.service.ct.gov/apostille. Paper forms are no longer accepted.
• Connecticut calls this a 'Criminal History Record Check,' not a 'background check.'

Sources and verification