A CPIC Background Check Whether you’re applying for a new job, volunteering, seeking professional licensing, or completing certain government or immigration-related processes, you may be asked to provide a CPIC criminal record check.

At F.I.P.S. (Fingerprints, Identifications and Pardons Services), we help individuals obtain criminal record checks and RCMP-accredited digital fingerprinting services throughout Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

This guide explains what a CPIC Background Check is, how to obtain one, when fingerprints are required, and what documents you’ll need.

What Is a CPIC Background Check?

A CPIC Background Check is generally a name-based criminal record check that searches the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) system maintained by the RCMP. Police agencies and authorized screening providers use your name and date of birth to determine whether there is a criminal record that may be disclosed under applicable laws.

A CPIC check is commonly requested for:

• Employment
• Volunteer positions (not used for Vulnerable Sector Checks)
• Professional licensing
• Student placements
• Adoption
• Name changes
• Record Suspension applications
• Certain immigration or travel-related requirements

Who Needs a CPIC Background Check?

You may be asked to obtain a CPIC Background Check if you are applying for:

• A new job
• Government employment
• Healthcare positions
• Financial services roles
• Educational institutions
• Volunteer opportunities
• Professional certifications
• Security-related positions

The organization requesting the check determines which type of background screening is required.

Step-by-Step: How to Obtain a CPIC Background Check

Step 1: Confirm the Type of Check Required

Before applying, ask the requesting organization which background check they require.

Common types include:

• Criminal Record Check
• Police Information Check (PIC)
• Vulnerable Sector Check
• RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check

Choosing the correct type of check helps prevent delays.

Step 2: Visit an Authorized Provider

Depending on the type of check required, you can apply through:

• F.I.P.S – Online Background CPIC Check Brampton, Mississauga & Toronto GTA
• Or at one of our offices

Step 3: Bring Valid Identification

Most applicants should bring:

• Two pieces of valid government-issued ID
• At least one photo ID
• Any request letter from your employer or organization (if applicable)

Examples include:

• Passport
• Driver’s Licence
• Permanent Resident Card
• Provincial Photo Identification Card

Step 4: Complete the Application

For most CPIC checks, you will provide:

• Full legal name
• Date of birth
• Current address
• Identification details
• Consent for the criminal record search

The provider will verify your identity before processing your application.

Step 5: Fingerprints (If Required)

Most CPIC Background Checks are completed using your name and date of birth.

However, fingerprints may be required if:

• Your employer requests an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check
• A name-based search identifies a possible match
• You are applying for certain federal government or high-security positions
• Your application specifically requires fingerprint verification

Being asked to provide fingerprints does not mean you have a criminal record. It is simply the most accurate way to confirm your identity.

What Is the Difference Between a CPIC Check and an RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check?

CPIC Background Check

• Name-based search
• Uses your name and date of birth
• Commonly used for employment and volunteer screening
• Usually processed quickly

RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check

• Fingerprint-based search
• Confirms identity using biometric fingerprints
• Required for many immigration, citizenship, Record Suspension, and high-security applications
• Provides the highest level of identity verification

How Long Does It Take?

Processing times depend on:

• The type of check requested
• The police service or authorized provider
• Whether fingerprints are required

Name-based checks are often completed more quickly, while fingerprint-based certified criminal record checks may take longer depending on RCMP processing volumes.

Why Choose F.I.P.S.?

F.I.P.S. has more than 30 years of experience providing fingerprinting and identity verification services.

Our Services

• RCMP Digital Fingerprinting
• RCMP Certified Criminal Record Checks
• Criminal Background Checks
• Immigration Fingerprinting
• Citizenship Fingerprinting
• Record Suspension Fingerprinting
• U.S. Entry Waiver Fingerprinting
• Cardscan (Conversion from ink to digital format)
• Identity Verification Services

Why Clients Choose F.I.P.S.

• RCMP-Accredited Fingerprinting Agency
• Experienced Fingerprint Technicians
• Secure Digital Submission
• Walk-In Service Available
• Fast and Professional Service
• Convenient Toronto and GTA Locations

We proudly serve clients throughout Toronto, North York, Scarborough, Etobicoke, Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, and the Greater Toronto Area.