Have you ever requested an RCMP Criminal Record Check and seen a lengthy, 20-digit number included with your document? That number is your Document Control Number (DCN), and it serves a more significant purpose than you might realize.
Knowing the meaning of this number will help you monitor, confirm, and guarantee the accuracy of your criminal record check, whether you’re seeking a job, immigration, or a visa overseas. Unfortunately, many people are left confused about where to find it or how it’s used.
In this article, we’ll explain what a Document Control Number (DCN) is, how it’s generated, and why it matters for your RCMP Criminal Record Check. We’ll also discuss what to do if you encounter errors, how to ensure your document is properly authenticated, and how Legalization Service Centre (LSC Canada) can help you with the authentication and legalization of your records.
Need help with document apostille/legalization/authentication/attestation — and/or criminal record check in Canada? Contact us via our form, call us at +1-613-501-0555 (WhatsApp available) or +1-800-857-1215 (toll-free), fax us via 1-844-786-2001, or text us at [email protected].
What Is a Document Control Number (DCN)?
A Document Control Number (DCN) is a unique alphanumeric identifier assigned to your RCMP Criminal Record Check. It is a 20-digit reference number automatically generated when your fingerprints are submitted electronically to the RCMP’s Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS) system.
Consider it the digital fingerprint of your document, a unique document control number that guarantees your record is securely connected to your submission, identifiable, and traceable. Each DCN is associated with a particular version of the document or criminal record check request, and no two are ever the same.
When you complete your fingerprints through an accredited agency or police department, the system automatically generates the DCN number as soon as your submission is accepted by the RCMP database. This number helps track the progress and retrieval of your results in real time.
Why the DCN Matters for Your Criminal Record Check?
The DCN serves as an essential tool for document management and verification. Without it, it would be nearly impossible to confirm or track your record within the RCMP system. Here’s why it matters:
- Verification and Tracking. The DCN allows employers, government agencies, and individuals to track the status of their criminal record check and verify that it was properly processed by the RCMP.
- Error Prevention. By automatically assigning a unique document identification, the system helps to ensure correctness across all documents by preventing duplication and mismatched entries.
- Security and Privacy. Every DCN serves as a secure identifier for your particular document, reducing the chances of identity confusion or unauthorized entry.
- International Requirements. For visa or immigration purposes, many countries request a DCN-linked RCMP Criminal Record Check to confirm authenticity. This is particularly relevant if your certificate will be authenticated or apostilled for use abroad.
In short, your DCN ensures that your criminal record check is part of a streamlined and effective document numbering system, guaranteeing that the information tied to you is correct and easy to retrieve.
Where to Find Your Document Control Number?
Your Document Control Number typically appears on the confirmation document provided after your fingerprints have been processed and submitted to the RCMP. This confirmation sheet will include the following below.
- The 20-digit DCN (for example: 2024-00123456789012345)
- The date and time the number was generated
- Your name and personal identification details
- The submission type (e.g., employment, immigration, or visa)
- The destination ORI or organization code (for example, PQ80800 for Public Services and Procurement Canada)
If you applied through an accredited fingerprinting agency, you’ll receive an electronic confirmation or printed document containing your DCN. You can then use this number to track the status of your criminal record check via the RCMP’s portal or through your service provider.
How the RCMP Generates and Assigns a DCN
The RCMP’s document numbering system operates under strict automation and verification rules. Here’s a simple overview of how it works:
- Fingerprint Submission. Once your fingerprints are captured, either via ink and scan or digital submission, they are uploaded to the CCRTIS database electronically.
- Automatic Generation. A 20-digit alphanumeric number is generated automatically once the submission is received. This number serves as the unique identifier for your specific document.
- Association with Metadata. The system links this number with metadata such as your name, date of birth, and purpose of the record check. This ensures the number matches the information in the database.
- Validation and Repository. The DCN becomes part of a secure national repository of criminal records, allowing retrieval, tracking, and verification across all associated documents.
This procedure streamlines document management while guaranteeing scalability, security, and accuracy, which are all crucial components in keeping the operational effectiveness of Canada for processing criminal records.
Common Scenarios Where a DCN Is Required
There are many instances where individuals may be asked to provide or confirm their DCN. Some of the most common include:
1. Employment Screening
A DCN is frequently requested as part of a criminal record check for verification by government agencies, private employers, and businesses in regulated sectors (such as security or healthcare).
2. Visa or Immigration Applications
If you’re applying for permanent residency, citizenship, or a work or student visa, the foreign authority may ask for a DCN-linked certificate. It helps them confirm the authenticity of your RCMP document.
3. Security Clearances
Certain jobs or licensing processes, such as the Cannabis Security Clearance or Public Services and Procurement Canada, require you to provide your DCN to confirm that your fingerprints have been processed correctly.
4. Record Authentication or Apostille
If your RCMP Criminal Record Check will be used outside Canada, you’ll need it authenticated or apostilled. Having your DCN ensures that the document is traceable and verifiable by Global Affairs Canada or the receiving embassy. You can also request an apostille certificate for official international use.
What to Do if There’s an Error With Your DCN
Sometimes, applicants may encounter errors or delays involving their DCN. Common issues include:
- The number not appearing on your confirmation document
- Mismatched personal information
- Delayed generation of the DCN due to submission errors
- Duplicate or invalid document control numbers
Here’s what to do if that happens:
- Verify Submission Accuracy – Check that your fingerprints and details were submitted correctly and match your ID documents.
- Contact Your Fingerprinting Agency – The accredited agency that processed your submission can verify whether your fingerprints were accepted by the RCMP system.
- Reach Out to RCMP CCRTIS – If your DCN wasn’t generated or appears invalid, the RCMP’s Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services can assist with verification.
- Request a Re-Submission if Necessary – In rare cases, you may need to resubmit your fingerprints to generate a new DCN and ensure the record check is valid.
By addressing these issues promptly, you help ensure accuracy and avoid delays in your application process.
Best Practices for Managing Your DCN and Related Documents
For people and organizations who handle a lot of submissions or records, properly numbering and organizing papers is crucial. Here are a few suggested best practices:
- Keep Records Organized. Store your confirmation sheets, DCN details, and associated documents in one secure repository. This allows for quick retrieval if needed.
- Avoid Manual Entry Errors. Always copy the DCN exactly as it appears on your confirmation document. Manual errors can cause mismatches or failed verifications.
- Use a Digital Repository. If possible, store your RCMP-related documents electronically. This helps streamline access and maintain document version control.
- Track the Status in Real Time. Use your DCN to track the progress of your record check. This ensures you’re aware of any delays or issues before they affect your timeline.
- Authenticate When Required. If your DCN-linked record will be used internationally, submit it for authentication or apostille through Legalization Service Centre to ensure legal recognition abroad.
Understanding How DCN Supports Document Management Systems
Modern document management systems used in business and government activities depend heavily on the Document Control Number, which is more than just a random identifier. The following are guaranteed by a document numbering scheme such as the RCMP’s.
- Consistency across all documents
- Traceability of each unique document
- Prevention of duplicates
- Simplified retrieval and reference
- Enhanced operational efficiency
Moreover, the RCMP can process thousands of fingerprint submissions every day while maintaining excellent data quality because of the scalability and adaptability of this methodical approach. Each DCN acts as an anchor point for metadata, which ensures documents can be linked, verified, and retrieved accurately both manually and electronically.
Why Choose Legalization Service Centre for RCMP Document Authentication
When your RCMP Criminal Record Check is ready and includes a DCN, the next step, especially if you’re using the document abroad, is authentication or apostille. That’s where Legalization Service Centre (LSC Canada) can help.
Experience and Expertise
With over 15 years of experience in document authentication and legalization, Legalization Service Centre has a proven track record of simplifying complex government processes for clients across Canada.
End-to-End Support
From obtaining your RCMP Criminal Record Check to submitting it to Global Affairs Canada, the Legalization Service Centre handles the entire process for you. Whether you’re in Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, or elsewhere, you can submit documents by mail or electronically.
Fast Turnaround
Legalization Service Centre prioritizes efficiency — ensuring that your document is processed and authenticated quickly. In many cases, apostille services can be completed within one business day.
Nationwide Accessibility
Legalization Service Centre serves clients all around Canada, with offices and partners in most cities. Our team guarantee that your document, no matter where it was issued, is handled securely and professionally.
Customer-Centric Approach
At the Legalization Service Centre, client satisfaction is the top priority. Their experienced staff provide clear instructions, fast communication, and reliable updates so you’re never left wondering about the status of your document.
Need Help with Your RCMP Document Authentication?
All things considered, your Document Control Number (DCN) is a crucial identification that ensures the accuracy, security, and traceability of your RCMP Criminal Record Check. Knowing your DCN enables you to efficiently maintain your paperwork and prevent delays while applying for a job, visa, or security clearance.
When it’s time to use your document abroad, make sure it’s properly authenticated or apostilled through a trusted partner like Legalization Service Centre. Our team streamlines the process, allowing you to concentrate on your next move—be it beginning a new job, pursuing studies abroad, or relocating.
Need help with document apostille/legalization/authentication/attestation — and/or criminal record check in Canada? Contact us via our form, call us at +1-613-501-0555 (WhatsApp available) or +1-800-857-1215 (toll-free), fax us via 1-844-786-2001, or text us at [email protected].