A criminal record is a record of a person’s criminal convictions in Canada. It is federally maintained by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and is available for criminal record checks. Criminal record checks are used to verify a person’s criminal history for a variety of purposes, such as employment, housing, and volunteer work.
A background check is a broader term that can refer to any type of check that is conducted to gather information about a person’s past. In addition to a criminal record check, a background check may also include checks of employment history, education, credit history, and driving record. Background checks are often used by employers, but they can also be used by other organizations, such as landlords and insurance companies.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between criminal records and background checks in Canada:
| Characteristic | Criminal record check | Background check |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A record of a person’s criminal convictions in Canada | A broader search including any type of check that is conducted to gather information about a person’s past |
| Purpose | To verify a person’s criminal history | To gather information about a person’s past, including criminal history, employment history, education, credit history, and driving record |
| Conducted by | The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) | Can be conducted by the RCMP or by private background check providers |
| Information included | Convictions, pending charges, and non-convictions (withdrawn, dismissed, stayed, acquitted, diverted, absolute discharge or conditional discharge) | May include convictions, pending charges, non-convictions, employment history, education, credit history, and driving record |
When is a criminal record check required?
Criminal record checks are required for certain types of employment, such as working in law enforcement, childcare, and education. They may also be required for certain types of volunteer work, such as working with vulnerable populations.
How can I get a criminal record check?
To get a criminal record check, you must apply to the RCMP. You can apply online, by mail, or in person at a Canadian passport office. There is a fee for criminal record checks.
What is included in a criminal record check?
A criminal record check will include information about all of your criminal convictions, pending charges, and non-convictions. Non-convictions are charges that were withdrawn, dismissed, stayed, acquitted, diverted, or resulted in an absolute discharge or conditional discharge.
How long does a criminal record last?
The length of time that a criminal record lasts depends on the type of conviction. Most convictions will remain on your criminal record for life. However, some convictions, such as summary convictions, may be eligible for pardon after a certain period of time.
What is the difference between a criminal record check and a vulnerable sector check?
A vulnerable sector check is a type of criminal record check that includes additional information about certain types of convictions, such as convictions for sexual offenses and convictions against children. Vulnerable sector checks are required for certain types of employment and volunteer work that involve working with vulnerable populations including children.
Conclusion
If you are unsure whether or not you have a criminal record, or if you need to get a criminal record check, you may contact the RCMP.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Contact us today to discuss your specific situation.