Apply online for a basic check
AccessNI criminal record checks are for people living or working in Northern Ireland. An individual must apply online for a basic check. The applicant must create their own nidirect account to apply online. A basic check application costs £16.00.
Before you start
A guide to completing a basic check application online is available to applicants.
When you create your nidirect account, you’ll receive a confirmation email immediately. Once you activate your account, you can log in and apply for a basic check. You’ll need:
- your home addresses for the last five years
- your National Insurance number
- three different types of ID
- a valid debit or credit card
Proof of identity
You must upload proof of your identity to AccessNI when submitting the Basic online application form. Without this proof, it is not possible to submit your online application to AccessNI.
AccessNI account
You must create your own nidirect account and log in to apply. If you have already created your own nidirect account you can use this to apply for a check.
Disclosure certificate
If you have no criminal history to disclose, you’ll receive a digital disclosure certificate. You can view the certificate from your nidirect account.
If the check discloses criminal history or you requested a paper copy, you’ll receive a printed certificate by post.
To send a copy of your digital certificate to an employer, select the share button on your nidirect account and include their email address. When you share your disclosure certificate with someone, it will only be visible to them for three days.
Privacy notice
To find out how personal information you send to AccessNI will be handled when using this service, go to:
Additional information
To track your application’s progress, log in to your AccessNI nidirect account.
Criminal record checks for England, Scotland and Wales
To get a criminal record check for working or volunteering in England and Wales, contact:
To get a criminal record check for working or volunteering in Scotland, contact:
Accessibility statement
To find out how accessible the nidirect AccessNI service is and what is being done to improve accessibility, see accessibility statement for AccessNI.