All You Need to Know about Digital Finger Printing
All You Need to Know About Digital Fingerprinting
Digital fingerprinting is the electronic capture and submission of fingerprint images using advanced live-scan technology. Instead of traditional ink and paper methods, fingerprints are scanned using an optical device and securely transmitted for processing.
In Canada, digital fingerprints are submitted directly to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police through the Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS).
This modern process is faster, more accurate, and more secure than traditional fingerprinting methods.
How Digital Fingerprinting Works
Digital fingerprinting follows a structured process:
- Electronic Capture
Fingerprints are scanned using a high-resolution optical scanner. - Secure Formatting & Transmission
The fingerprint data is formatted into a standardized electronic file and securely transmitted to CCRTIS. - Database Comparison
The fingerprints are compared against the National Repository of Criminal Records. - Results Issued
If no match is found, a clearance or Certified Criminal Record Check may be issued, depending on the request.
CCRTIS maintains and manages Canada’s central repository of fingerprint and criminal record information under federal oversight.
Why Are Fingerprints Required?
Digital fingerprinting may be required for:
- Employment background checks
- Police clearance certificates
- Security licence applications
- Permanent residency or immigration applications
- Name change applications
- Visa clearance
- U.S. Entry Waivers and border crossing
- Municipal, Provincial, or Federal government employment
- Record Suspension (formerly Pardon) applications
Many organizations require fingerprint-based verification when identity must be confirmed with certainty.
Ink & Roll vs. Digital Fingerprinting: Which Is Better?
Ink & Roll Fingerprinting
- Traditional method using ink and paper cards
- Often required for certain international police clearances
- May involve longer mailing and processing times
Digital (Live Scan) Fingerprinting
- Electronic capture and secure transmission
- Faster processing in most cases
- Reduced rejection rates
- Higher image clarity and accuracy
Processing times depend on the type of request, but electronic submissions are generally more efficient than paper-based methods.
Is Digital Fingerprinting Secure?
Yes. Digital fingerprint submissions are encrypted and transmitted securely to federal systems. The process is conducted under strict privacy and security standards to protect applicant information.
Choosing a Reliable Fingerprinting Provider
Selecting an accredited and experienced fingerprinting agency ensures:
- Proper image capture
- Compliance with R.C.M.P. standards
- Reduced risk of rejection
- Confidential handling of personal data
F.I.P.S. provides electronic fingerprinting services in Toronto and Brampton, along with guidance for Record Suspensions and U.S. Waiver applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Digital fingerprinting is the electronic capture and submission of fingerprints using a live-scan optical device.
Digital fingerprints are processed by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police through CCRTIS.
In most cases, yes. Electronic submissions are typically processed more efficiently than mailed ink cards.
Fingerprints are required when identity confirmation is necessary, such as for immigration, government employment, security licensing, or Record Suspension applications.
Fingerprints submitted for background checks are used for identity confirmation and handled under federal privacy standards.