What is Canadian Criminal Record Check 2026?

In Canada, Canadian criminal record checks are processed through the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC), the national database managed by the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police). There are three primary levels of Canadian criminal record checks depending on the level of detail required.

Types of Canadian Criminal Record Checks

• Level 1: Name-Based Criminal Record Check

  The most basic level of check, using only an individual’s full name and date of birth. This is often used for private employments (e.g., retail, trades). It discloses criminal convictions for which a record suspension (pardon) has not been granted. Results of name-based criminal record checks will only show a positive or negative criminal conviction. You can think of it as a yes-or-no answer. For the details of a positive criminal conviction, see a Level 2 check (below).

• Level 2: RCMP Fingerprint-Based Criminal Record Check

  If a Level 1 check produces a yes-or-no result, a Level 2 check will answer the details of the results. This is often called a “Certified RCMP Criminal Record Check,” outlining the details of any criminal conviction and non-conviction information, including any outstanding charges, warrants, judicial orders, peace bonds, and recent absolute or conditional discharges.

  If an individual is granted a record suspension in Canada, the suspended record does not appear on a standard, RCMP criminal record check. However, it may show up on a Level 3 check (see below).

• Level 3: Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC)

  This is one of the highest levels of check in Canada, mandatory for positions of trust over children or vulnerable adults (e.g., teachers, nurses, daycare workers). It includes everything in Levels 1 and 2, plus a search for pardoned sex offenses.

  Note: This check must be conducted by the local police service or RCMP detachment in the jurisdiction where you reside.

Should you have any questions about a Canadian criminal record check, please see our website at www.thefingerprintroom.com. Feel free to give us a call at 604-447-2485 or send your message to contact@thefingerprintroom.com. Our office is open from Monday to Friday from 9am to 5:30pm (except national statutory holidays).