In today’s environment, security standards have increased across workplaces, volunteer organizations, and regulated industries. With rising concerns around fraud, misconduct, and public safety, police checks have become an essential part of responsible screening.

Whether you are applying for employment, volunteering, licensing, or immigration purposes, a police check helps verify identity and confirm whether a criminal record exists.

What Is a Police Check?

A police check (also known as a Criminal Record Check or C.P.I.C. check) involves searching national police databases to determine whether an individual has:

• Criminal convictions
• Outstanding charges
• Warrants
• Judicial orders (such as restraining orders)

In Canada, criminal record verification may involve searches conducted through the Canadian Police Information Centre (C.P.I.C.) and fingerprint-based verification through the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Why Police Checks Are Important

1. Employment Screening

Many employers in Toronto, Brampton, and Mississauga require police checks before hiring. This is especially common in:

• Healthcare
• Education
• Government contracting
• Financial services
• Security roles

Background screening protects organizations, staff, and clients.

2. Volunteer Positions

Police checks help ensure volunteers are suitable for roles involving:

• Vulnerable individuals
• Children
• Seniors
• Community services

This promotes trust and community safety.

3. Licensing & Regulatory Compliance

Certain professional licences require criminal record verification as part of regulatory standards.

Types of Police Checks

Name-Based Check (C.P.I.C. Check)

A name-based check searches criminal records using:

• Full legal name
• Date of birth

This type of check is often sufficient when identity can be clearly confirmed.

Fingerprint-Based Check

When identity confirmation is required or when a name-based search produces a possible match, fingerprint verification may be necessary.

Fingerprint checks are processed through the R.C.M.P.’s National Repository of Criminal Records and result in a Certified Criminal Record Check.

Fingerprint-based checks offer:

• Greater accuracy
• Biometric confirmation of identity
• Reduced risk of mistaken identity

Why Work with a Professional Service Provider?

Obtaining the correct type of police check can sometimes be confusing. A knowledgeable agency helps you:

• Determine which type of check is required
• Avoid delays due to incorrect applications
• Ensure compliance with federal standards
• Protect your personal information

F.I.P.S. assists clients in Toronto, Brampton, and surrounding areas with:

• Electronic fingerprint submissions
• Name-based criminal record checks
• Police clearance certificates
• Guidance on Record Suspensions or U.S. Entry Waivers if required

Using an experienced provider helps streamline the process and reduce stress.