Did you know that approximately 3.8 million Canadians have a criminal record? Whether you’re applying for a job, volunteering, immigrating, or preparing documents for use abroad, understanding how to get a criminal record check is an important step that many Canadians and foreign nationals eventually need to take.
A criminal record check is an important document used to verify whether an applicant has a Canadian criminal record. Depending on the purpose, the process may involve a name-based criminal record check, digital fingerprint submission, a vulnerable sector check, or a certified criminal record check issued through the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Knowing which type of police record check you need can save time and prevent delays.
In this article, we’ll explain how to get a criminal record check in Canada, the different types of criminal record checks available, when fingerprints are required, how the RCMP processes applications, what documents you need, and how to receive your criminal record check, whether you are in Canada or outside of Canada.
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 info@lsccanada.ca.
How to Get a Criminal Record Check: Understanding the Basics
Before learning how to get a criminal record check, it is important to understand what this document actually is.
A criminal record check is a type of background check that searches various police databases to determine whether a candidate has a criminal history in Canada. Depending on the level of criminal record search requested, the check may include information from local police records, the RCMP National Repository of Criminal Records, and the Canadian Police Information Centre system.
Organizations may require a criminal record check for:
- Employment opportunities
- Professional licensing
- Volunteer positions
- Immigration matters
- Citizenship applications
- Adoption processes
- Security clearances
- International travel requirements
- Work involving children or vulnerable people
The criminal record check will determine whether criminal convictions, criminal history information, or other relevant police information exist within national and local databases.
Types of Criminal Record Checks Available
Not all record checks are the same. The type required depends on the organization requesting the check.
Common options include:
- Basic criminal record check
- Name-based criminal record check
- Certified criminal record check
- Police information check
- Record and judicial matters check
- Criminal record and judicial matters check
- Vulnerable sector check
Always confirm the exact type of criminal record check required before proceeding with your application. To better understand the differences between available checks, read our guide on types of criminal record checks in Canada.
How to Get a Criminal Record Check Through Your Local Police Service
One of the most common ways to apply for a criminal record check is through a local police service or local police agency.
Many local police departments offer online record checks or in-person services. The process generally involves completing a record check form, submitting identification, and paying the applicable fee.
Information Required for the Application
When completing a criminal record check application, you may be asked to provide:
- Full name
- Applicant’s name as shown on identification
- Date of birth
- Previous names
- Name change documentation (if applicable)
- Current address
- Contact information
- Purpose of the check
Many police services require the applicant to verify their identity using government-issued identification.
Identification Requirements
Most agencies require:
- Two pieces of government-issued identification
- Proof of current address
- Supporting documents if a legal name change has occurred
The application must contain accurate information to avoid processing delays.
Online Application Options
Today, many police checks can be requested through an online application process. Depending on your location, you may be able to apply online, upload supporting documents, and receive your record check results electronically.
However, not every police service offers the same online services, and requirements can vary between jurisdictions.
How to Get a Criminal Record Check Through the RCMP
Certain situations require a more comprehensive search conducted through the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
The RCMP maintains the National Repository of Criminal Records, Canada’s central database of criminal records. This repository is managed through the Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS).
When an RCMP Criminal Record Check Is Required
An RCMP-certified criminal record check may be required when:
- Fingerprints are requested
- Immigration authorities require certification
- Foreign governments request official documentation
- Identity verification cannot be completed through a name-based search
- A certified criminal record check is specifically requested
Unlike a basic criminal record check, an RCMP-certified check is based on fingerprints rather than solely on name and date of birth.
Why Fingerprints Matter
A fingerprint-based search provides a highly accurate method of confirming identity.
Digital fingerprint submissions allow the RCMP to search the national repository directly and determine whether any criminal history records are associated with the applicant.
Fingerprint verification helps eliminate confusion caused by:
- Similar names
- Common surnames
- Identity discrepancies
- Previous names or aliases
For many international applications, fingerprint-based record checks are preferred because they offer greater reliability.
Understanding Name-Based Criminal Record Checks vs. Certified Criminal Record Checks
The difference between a certified criminal record check and a name-based criminal record check is a frequent cause of misunderstanding.
Name-Based Criminal Record Check
A name-based criminal record check relies primarily on:
- Full name
- Name and date of birth
- Available police databases
This type of check is commonly used for:
- Employment
- Volunteer work
- General screening purposes
The process is often faster and less expensive than fingerprint-based searches.
Certified Criminal Record Check
A certified criminal record check involves fingerprints and searches the RCMP National Repository of Criminal Records.
This option is frequently required for:
- Immigration applications
- Foreign employment
- International residency applications
- Citizenship-related matters
- Official government requests
Because fingerprints are used, the certified criminal record check provides a more definitive result.
How to Get a Vulnerable Sector Check
Some positions require an additional screening known as a vulnerable sector check.
A vulnerable sector check must be completed when individuals work with children or vulnerable people in positions of trust or authority.
Examples include:
- Teachers
- Daycare workers
- Healthcare professionals
- Volunteers working with minors
- Caregivers
- Social workers
What Is Included in a Vulnerable Sector Check?
A vulnerable sector search may include:
- Criminal convictions
- Outstanding charges
- Judicial orders
- Relevant police information
- Certain sexual offence record information
The vulnerable sector check process includes additional screening measures beyond a standard police information check.
Who Can Request It?
Generally, the organization requesting the check must provide documentation explaining why a vulnerable sector check is required.
The vulnerable sector check application must meet specific eligibility requirements before processing can begin. To learn more, read our detailed guide on the differences between a vulnerable sector check and a criminal record check.
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 info@lsccanada.ca.
What Information May Appear on a Criminal Record Check?
The information disclosed depends on the level of criminal record search requested.
Potential information may include:
- Criminal convictions
- Outstanding warrants
- Judicial orders
- Conditional discharges
- Absolute discharges (within applicable disclosure periods)
- Certain police information
- Criminal activity records were legally permitted
What About Youth Records?
Under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, youth records are protected and subject to strict disclosure rules.
Information relating to guilt under the Youth Criminal Justice Act is not disclosed in the same way as adult criminal convictions.
Disclosure depends on:
- The nature of the request
- Applicable legislation
- Time limits established by law
Record Suspensions
Individuals who have obtained a record suspension under the Criminal Records Act may have limited disclosure of past criminal records.
Those considering applying for a record suspension should understand that separate procedures apply and eligibility requirements must be met before applying for a record suspension.
How Long Does the Criminal Record Check Process Take?
Processing times vary depending on:
- The type of check requested
- The police service is handling the application
- Whether fingerprints are required
- Current application volumes
- Identity verification requirements
Generally, name-based criminal record checks may be completed faster than fingerprint-based certified criminal record checks.
If fingerprints are required, additional processing time may be necessary because the RCMP must review and process the submission.
Factors That Can Delay Processing
Common causes of delays include:
- Incomplete application forms
- Incorrect date of birth information
- Missing identification
- Name discrepancies
- Poor-quality fingerprints
- Additional identity verification requirements
Completing an application carefully can help reduce delays.
How to Get a Criminal Record Check if You Are Outside of Canada
Many individuals need a Canadian criminal record check while living abroad.
Fortunately, obtaining a Canadian criminal record check outside of Canada is possible.
Applicants can often:
- Obtain fingerprints locally.
- Submit fingerprints through an authorized service provider.
- Verify identity requirements.
- Submit the completed application.
- Receive their criminal record check by secure delivery.
Fingerprinting Outside Canada
Many foreign police agencies and accredited fingerprint providers can collect ink fingerprints.
These fingerprints can then be digitized and submitted for RCMP processing through authorized providers.
This process allows applicants around the world to obtain a Canadian criminal record check without returning to Canada.
How Legalization Service Centre Helps You Get a Criminal Record Check
Working with a knowledgeable professional service might make the process easier if you’re seeking a criminal background check and need an RCMP-certified certificate. Legalization Service Centre is an RCMP-accredited and fully licensed fingerprinting service with more than 15 years of experience assisting clients in Canada and around the world. The team can help with certified criminal record checks, RCMP fingerprint submissions, digital fingerprint processing, the conversion of international ink fingerprints to digital format, and secure worldwide delivery of completed documents.
In addition to criminal record check services, Legalization Service Centre can assist with apostille, authentication, legalization, attestation, and certified translation services when documents need to be recognized internationally. This can be especially valuable if a foreign authority requires additional document authentication after your Canadian criminal record check has been issued. Whether you need a criminal record check for employment, immigration, licensing, or international documentation purposes, Legalization Service Centre provides professional guidance, reliable service, and efficient processing every step of the way.
Ready to Get Your Criminal Record Check?
Knowing how to get a criminal record check is the first step toward completing many important personal, professional, and international requirements. Whether you need a basic criminal record check, a police information check, a vulnerable sector check, or an RCMP-certified criminal record check, knowing the process for an RCMP-certified criminal record check will help you avoid delays and make sure you have the right paperwork.
If you require assistance obtaining a Canadian criminal record check, submitting fingerprints, or preparing your documents for international use through apostille, authentication, or legalization, Legalization Service Centre is ready to help.
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 info@lsccanada.ca.