Delaware Background Check & Apostille Guide

Issuing agency

Delaware State Police — State Bureau of Identification (SBI)

Steps to request and apostille your record

1. STEP 1Request Your Background Check

   • Delaware state background checks are processed by the Delaware State Police, State Bureau of Identification (SBI).
   • For personal use, request a Certified Delaware Criminal History report using service code 27RVGT. Note: this personal report will not fulfill requirements for legally mandated agencies.
   • Fingerprinting appointments are required. The SBI offers fingerprinting at 9 locations across Delaware: Wilmington, Newark (2 locations), Middletown, Dover (2 locations), Milford, Georgetown, and Seaford.
   • Schedule a fingerprint appointment or use the mail-in service through the SBI website at dsp.delaware.gov.
   • You must bring a valid photo ID (driver's license or state ID from any state). The fee is $52 for a state-only criminal history, or $65 for a combined state and federal (FBI) check.

2. STEP 2Receive Your Results

   • Fingerprint-based results are typically available within 5-10 business days.
   • The certified criminal history report is mailed to the address you provided.
   • The report is an official certified document from the Delaware State Police SBI.

3. STEP 3Apostille Your Background Check

   • Submit the original document to the Delaware Secretary of State, Division of Corporations, for apostille.
   • The fee is $30.00 per document for non-commercial/personal use.
   • Include a cover memo clearly stating the purpose of the request and the country in which the document will be used (Ecuador).
   • Mail to: Division of Corporations, John G. Townsend Bldg., 401 Federal Street, Suite 4, Dover, DE 19901.
   • Personal mail-in requests are typically processed on the same business day they are received. You can also schedule an in-person appointment by calling (302) 739-3077.

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

• Delaware uses the term 'Certified Criminal History' rather than 'background check.'
• The personal-use service code is 27RVGT — make sure to use this code when scheduling.
• Delaware's apostille processing is fast (same business day) but the fee ($30) is among the higher in this batch.
• Delaware has 9 SBI fingerprinting locations spread across the state — check the SBI website for the location nearest you.

Sources and verification