Born on March 2, 1952. In 1973, graduated from the Higher Political School of the USSR Ministry of the Interior, in 1981 - from the Military and Political Academy, in 2002 - from the Financial Academy under the Government of the Russian Federation. Doctor of Law, Professor. Has a rank of the State Advisor on Justice of the Russian Federation. Military rank - Colonel-General.

In 1990-1993, was a People's Deputy of the RSFSR, Chairman of the Committee of the Russian Federation Supreme Council on Defense and Security.

In 1993-1998, was at higher state positions: First Deputy of the Security Minister, Director of the Federal Counter-Intelligence Service, Director of the Federal Security Service, Head of the Administrative Department of the Government Administration, Minister of Justice, Minister of the Interior.

In 1999, held higher positions of First Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation - Minister of the Interior, Prime Minister of the Russian Federation.

Upon election in December 1999 as a Deputy of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, headed the Anticorruption Commission.

On April 19, 2000, Mr. Stepashin was appointed by the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation as Chairman of the Accounts Chamber.

Was awarded with the Order for Outstanding Service to the Motherland of the III degree, with the Order of Fortitude and a number of medals.