Local Police Checks vs RCMP Criminal Record Checks

When individuals in Canada apply for jobs, volunteer opportunities, immigration processes, or professional licensing, background screening becomes a crucial step. While both local police checks and RCMP criminal record checks serve the purpose of verifying a person’s history, they differ in depth, national coverage, and the type of information they reveal. Understanding the differences between the two can help you choose the right one for your needs, and avoid delays in applications.

Many Canadians are unsure how RCMP vs local police check procedures compare, especially when requirements change depending on the organization or agency requesting the check. This guide clarifies those differences so you know exactly what to request and when.

What Is a Local Police Check?

Local police checks are handled by municipal police departments or regional law enforcement agencies. They search police databases within a specific jurisdiction. This means results apply to the area where the applicant lives or has lived, not necessarily the entire country.

A local check may include:

• Outstanding warrants

• Local convictions or charges

• Police interactions and non-conviction history (depending on the screening type requested)

• Information relevant to vulnerable sector roles (if applicable)

Because results can vary based on an applicant’s location, a RCMP vs local police check comparison shows that local checks are more region-focused and may include personal police notes that aren’t part of national crime databases.

Types of Local Police Screening

Local departments may offer different types of screenings depending on how deep the verification needs to be:

• Criminal Record Check

• Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check

• Vulnerable Sector Check

Roles involving children, seniors, and vulnerable communities often require a vulnerable sector check due to the added level of detail. These cannot be done by a third party — only local police services perform them.

What Is an RCMP Criminal Record Check?

The RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) oversees the national criminal database known as CPIC — the Canadian Police Information Centre. This is the most comprehensive and recognized criminal record check across the country.

• An RCMP check searches national records and includes:

• Fingerprints for accurate identification

• Confirmed convictions registered under the Criminal Code

• Serious offences from anywhere in Canada

• Results validated directly through the RCMP system

When comparing RCMP vs local police check processes, the RCMP option is considered the gold standard because it eliminates false matches — especially for individuals with common names.

Why Fingerprinting Matters

Today, many employers and government agencies require fingerprints to authenticate identity. Fingerprint-based RCMP checks ensure that someone else’s record is not mistakenly associated with your name.

Fingerprinting may be required when:

• A name and date of birth check shows a possible match

• You are applying for permanent residency or citizenship

• You are seeking employment in a sensitive industry

• You have lived in another country and need a certified document

Fingerprint-based checks are internationally recognized, making them ideal for immigration and overseas work applications.

Which One Do You Need?

The requirements depend on the organization requesting the screening:

You may need a local police check if you are:

• Volunteering with a community group

• Working with vulnerable individuals within a specific region

• Applying for local licences or permits

You may need an RCMP criminal record check if you are:

• Applying for immigration or permanent residency

• Working in the federal government or security roles

•  Applying for a job that demands national clearance

• Travelling or relocating for work internationally

If unsure, always confirm with the requesting agency before applying. Knowing the correct RCMP vs local police check option first can help avoid delays or expensive repeat checks.

Processing Time and Convenience

Local police checks can sometimes be issued quickly, especially if done online. However, vulnerable sector checks may take longer because of additional verification.

Fingerprint-based RCMP checks may take:

• few days if no record exists

• several weeks if further investigation is needed

Using an accredited fingerprinting agency can speed up the process significantly and ensure documents are submitted correctly the first time.

Protecting Your Personal Information

Both checks require sensitive details to ensure accuracy. Working with professionals who follow privacy regulations ensures that your information remains secure throughout the process.

Accredited fingerprinting companies forward fingerprints electronically to the RCMP, reducing handling risks and improving turnaround time.

Choosing the Right Professionals for Your Check

When navigating RCMP vs local police check requests, guidance can be extremely helpful. Trained verification specialists understand required formats, application rules, and identification standards. This support prevents errors that can lead to applications being rejected or delayed.

Instead of waiting in long lines at local police stations, you can book an appointment with a certified agency that handles the entire fingerprinting and submission process smoothly.

Get Your Criminal Record Check Done the Right Way

VS Fingerprinting makes background checks simple, secure, and stress-free. Whether you need an RCMP-certified fingerprint check or help understanding local screening requirements, our experts are here to assist every step of the way.

Contact VS Fingerprinting today to book your appointment and ensure your criminal record check is processed accurately — the first time.