At some point in time you may find yourself in need of a Clearance Letter. This is a document that contains information about your clean criminal record. These letters are sometimes needed when applying for a visa, other travel purposes, or when adopting a child.

If you live in unincorporated King County (or one of our contract cities) and need to obtain a Clearance Letter, you may request one from the Sheriff’s Office Records Unit located at:

King County Courthouse
516 Third Avenue
Room W-150
Seattle, WA 98104

So we can assist you with the preparation of a Clearance Letter you will need to provide the following information:
• Your current name
• Any previous names or nicknames you've used
• Your complete date of birth
• Your current address
• A phone number where you can be reached during our normal business hours
• At your option, your social security number

Please bring or send a copy of your current ID (Washington State driver's license or ID card preferred).

You can receive this service in person or by mail at the address above. If you report in person, expect a wait of no longer than 60 minutes, except at times of extremely high customer volume. If you make your request by mail, please put ATTN: Records Unit in the address on the envelope. You should receive your clearance letter within five days when applying by mail.

The fee is $10.00 for each clearance letter plus a $6.50 per-document certification (notary) fee. Fees may be paid by cash, a personal check (made payable to the King County Sheriff's Office) or money order.