Types of Criminal Record Checks

Criminal record checks of a person's criminal history can only be done with the person's written consent. Police conduct a check on request.

Some situations when a criminal record check might be requested include as part of a job application. Criminal record checks are required for people working with children or who have unsupervised access to children (see Mandatory Criminal Record Review Checks). They are optional for most volunteers.

You can also request a criminal record check for yourself, as long as you produce proper identification and have a valid reason.

If you require a criminal record check for employment, volunteering or other purposes, please visit the police or RCMP detachment where you live.

Types of Criminal Record Checks

The amount of information provided in a criminal record check depends on the situation and level of check requested. For example, a criminal record check confirming a record exists may include:

• A full record check, personal information, all convictions and charges that did not lead to a conviction
• Personal information and only a conviction history
• A statement that a criminal record exists

Certified Criminal Record Check

A certified criminal record check is similar to the regular criminal record check, except that it includes a full set of fingerprints from an authorized agency. You may need a certified criminal record check for adoption, citizenship or visa applications or work permits. Certified criminal record checks are done through your local RCMP detachment. For more information about certified criminal record checks, visit the RCMP website.

Mandatory Criminal Record Checks

The Criminal Records Review Act says a criminal record check is mandatory for people working with children and vulnerable adults or who have unsupervised access to children or vulnerable adults. This includes doctors, nurses, hospital employees, dentists, teachers, non-teaching staff in schools (such as janitors and administrative support), registered students in a post-secondary program who will work with children or vulnerable adults, early childcare educators, day care employees, employees in long-term care facilities and other facilities that provide health services to vulnerable adults. This requirement helps protect children and vulnerable adults from harm.

To learn more or to have a criminal record check done, visit Criminal Record Check.