What is Criminal Record Check (CRC)?

At some point in your life, you might find yourself being asked to undergo a Criminal Record Check (CRC). While it might sound like an intimidating process, it’s a routine requirement for various situations, from volunteering to employment. In this blog post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of CRCs in Canada, specifically in beautiful British Columbia.

Photo by Matt Popovich on Unsplash

The Two Sides of CRCs

Criminal record checks come in two flavors: name-based and certified (fingerprints-based). The type you need largely depends on the purpose of your check.

1) Name-Based Criminal Record Checks

For most employment and volunteer opportunities, a name-based CRC is sufficient. It’s a straightforward process that doesn’t require the scrutiny of your fingerprints. Here’s how it works:

1. Visit your nearest police office.
2. Bring along:

• A filled PIC form (available at the police office).
• Two government-issued IDs.
• $65 CAD (Yes, there’s a fee).
• If it’s for volunteering, consider bringing a letter from a registered non-profit volunteer organization. This can make the CRC process absolutely free for you.

The processing time for a name-based CRC typically takes about a week, and you can pick up the results at the police office. It’s a breeze for most Canadians, as long as you have a clean record!

2) Certified Criminal Record Check (Fingerprints-Based)

This type of CRC is more intricate and is generally required for specific purposes, such as international visas. If you ever find yourself in need of one, here’s how to navigate the process:

1. Start at your nearest police office to obtain a paper copy of your fingerprints — all ten of them! This step necessitates a walk-in appointment.
2. Next, you’ll need to contact an accredited fingerprint company in Canada to complete the application process. You can find a list of accredited fingerprint companies on the RCMP website.
3. The accredited company will convert your paper fingerprint form into a digital format and submit your application to Canadian Criminal Real-Time Identification Services electronically.
4. Finally, your results will be mailed to you once the process is complete.

If you’re embarking on this journey, be prepared for a more time-consuming and detailed process. Certified CRCs require additional steps but are essential for specific situations like working abroad.

A Local Perspective from British Columbia

Keep in mind that the information we’ve provided here is specific to British Columbia, Canada. CRC processes can vary from province to province, so it’s crucial to double-check with your local authorities for any specific requirements.

As someone currently undergoing the process, I’ll share my personal experience with a certified CRC once it’s completed. It’s always helpful to hear firsthand accounts to know what to expect.

In conclusion, don’t be alarmed if you’re asked to undergo a Criminal Record Check. It’s a common part of life, and with the right information and preparation, you can navigate the process with ease. Whether it’s a name-based check or a certified CRC, understanding the requirements and steps involved is your first step towards a successful outcome.