A police check in Canada is a screening process used by employers, organizations, schools, and licensing authorities to verify whether an individual has a criminal record or other police information associated with their name.
Different terms are often used to describe similar processes, including police record checks, criminal record checks, background checks, and CPIC checks. Understanding the differences helps ensure you apply for the correct screening required by your employer or organization.
Several types of police checks are commonly requested across Canada. While the terminology may vary, most routine checks involve a search of Canadian police databases such as CPIC.
A police record check is one of the most commonly requested forms of background screening in Canada. It is typically required for employment, volunteering, education placements, and professional licensing.
Learn more about the process on our Police Record Check Canada page.
A background check in Canada can refer to different types of screening, including police record checks, employment verification, or other identity checks depending on the requesting organization.
Read more on our Background Check Canada page.
A CPIC check refers to a search of the Canadian Police Information Centre database, maintained by the RCMP. Police agencies across Canada use this system to share criminal record information.
Learn how this database works on our CPIC Check Canada page.
A criminal record check confirms whether an individual has a criminal record in Canadian police databases. Many organizations require this screening before approving employment or volunteer roles.
Read the full explanation on our Criminal Record Check Canada page.
In many routine situations, a police check is completed through a name-based search of Canadian police databases such as CPIC. Applicants verify their identity and the request is processed through authorized systems used by Canadian police services.
If fingerprints are required, the process must be completed using fingerprint-based criminal record verification through the RCMP or accredited fingerprint agencies.
Applicants across Canada can begin online and then visit province pages for location-specific information and city guidance.
Start your application online and receive your official police record check result by encrypted email once the process is completed.