Search space configurations for random access messaging

Methods, systems, and devices for wireless communications are described. In some systems, a user equipment (UE) may perform a random access (RACH) procedure based on a selected synchronization signal block (SSB). During this RACH procedure, a base station may transmit physical downlink control channel (PDCCH) messages for UE RACH message handling. To receive PDCCH signaling for RACH Messages 2, 3, or 4 (Msg 2/3/4), the UE may identify a set of time resources used by the base station for transmitting SSBs that are not quasi-co-located (QCL) with the selected SSB. The UE may identify a Msg 2/3/4 search space that does not overlap with this identified set of resources, and may monitor this identified search space. The search space may correspond to a modified remaining minimum system information (RMSI) search space indicated by the base station, or a valid RMSI search space not indicated by the base station.