Idaho Background Check & Apostille Guide

Issuing agency

Idaho State Police (ISP) — Bureau of Criminal Identification

Steps to request and apostille your record

1. STEP 1Request Your Background Check

   • Idaho state background checks are processed by the Idaho State Police (ISP) Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI).
   • For immigration purposes, a fingerprint-based background check is recommended. The fee is $25 for a statewide fingerprint-based check (increased from $20 effective January 1, 2026).
   • Visit the ISP BCI office at 700 S. Stratford Dr., Suite 120, Meridian, ID 83642, or contact your local law enforcement agency for fingerprinting services outside the Treasure Valley area.
   • You will need a current, valid state or government-issued photo ID. Your fingerprints will be captured electronically (live scan) and submitted to ISP for processing.
   • A name-based check is also available for $20, but the fingerprint-based check is more definitive for immigration purposes as it eliminates errors due to common names.

2. STEP 2Receive Your Results

   • Processing typically takes 3-5 business days for fingerprint-based checks.
   • Results are mailed to you or to the requesting agency, depending on the type of request.
   • Criminal history information remains in the Idaho record indefinitely unless a court has ordered complete removal of data.
   • Review your report carefully for accuracy before proceeding to the apostille step.

3. STEP 3Apostille Your Background Check

   • Submit the original background check document to the Idaho Secretary of State for apostille.
   • The fee is $10 per document. Include the completed Apostille/Certificate of Authentication Request form, available at sos.idaho.gov.
   • In-person appointments are available Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-12:00 PM and 2:00 PM-4:00 PM, at 450 N. 4th Street, Boise, ID 83702. Call (208) 334-2301 to schedule.
   • Documents submitted in person or by mail are processed within 1 business day. Completed apostilles are returned by first-class mail.

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

• Idaho's fingerprint-based background check fee increased to $25 on January 1, 2026 — older guides may still list $20.
• Idaho has one of the fastest apostille turnaround times at 1 business day.
• For fingerprinting locations outside the Boise/Meridian area, contact your local sheriff's office or police department.
• The Idaho Secretary of State requires appointments for in-person apostille service — walk-ins are not accepted.

Sources and verification