Most accepted and accurate criminal background check:
A social media background check reflects who you are based on your online behaviour.
Obtain criminal background checks on individuals including enhanced background checks.
Obtain employment background check verifications on individuals including enhanced employment background checks.
Verify a candidates education history and credentials.
Obtain Transunion credit checks on individuals including ID reports and ID verifications.
We perform comprehensive reference checks on your candidates customized to the information you want to learn.
You can obtain driving record abstracts on your candidates and learn information like:
Obtain social media checks on individuals that:
Comprehensive solutions designed for staffing agencies.
Obtain pre-employment screening bundles and save!
You’ve accepted the job offer.
The volunteer coordinator is waiting for your paperwork.
Your professional regulator needs proof of screening before approving your licence.
One of the most common requirements across Canada is a criminal record check, but many people aren’t sure where to start.
Can it be completed online? How long does it take? Will you need fingerprints? And what’s the difference between a criminal record check and a background check?
This guide walks you through everything you need to know before you apply.
Step 1. Confirm which type of check you need
Different organizations request different types of criminal record checks. Before applying, confirm exactly which check is required to avoid delays.
Step 2. Choose a trusted screening provider
Look for a provider that:
Step 3. Verify your identity
Most online providers use secure digital identity verification. In some situations, fingerprints may be required to confirm your identity.
Step 4. Submit your application
Complete the online application and securely submit your information.
Step 5. Receive your results
Many online criminal record checks are completed within minutes, although additional verification or fingerprinting may extend processing times. Triton’s average turnaround time is about five minutes for eligible checks.
Which Type of Criminal Record Check Do You Need?
Always confirm which type of check your employer, school, volunteer organization, or licensing body requires before applying.
You May Need a Criminal Record Check If You’re…
Starting a new job
Many employers request one before hiring, particularly in healthcare, education, finance, transportation, security, and government.
Volunteering
Organizations working with children, seniors, or vulnerable individuals often require criminal record checks or vulnerable sector checks.
Applying for nursing, teaching, or other placements
Many post-secondary programs require screening before students begin clinical or field placements.
Renewing a professional licence
Many regulated professions require screening during licensing or renewal.
Applying for immigration or international travel
Some countries request police clearance certificates as part of immigration or visa applications.
Renting (in some situations)
Some landlords or property managers may request a criminal record check as part of their tenant screening process.
A criminal record check is an official search of Canadian police records to determine whether an individual has a criminal record.
A criminal record is commonly requested by:
A criminal record check is also referred to as:
While these terms are often used interchangeable, they don’t always mean the exact same thing. Understanding the differences helps ensure you request the correct type of screening.
A criminal record check specifically searches police databases for criminal convictions and depending on the type of check, other judicial records.
A background check is a broader term which can sometimes include multiple types of checks such as:
Many employers typically require multiple types of background screening as part of the hiring process.
Processing times depend on several factors, including identity verification and whether additional review is required. Many online criminal record checks can be completed much faster than in person applications.
On average, Triton provides your criminal background check to you within 5 minutes.
If fingerprints are required to confirm identity, processing will take longer.
Yes, provided you use a reputable screening provider. Never provide your personal information before vetting the company. Only submit your information on secure website.
Questions to ask:
Choosing the wrong type of check
Always confirm the exact screening your organization requires.
Entering a name that doesn’t match your identification
Even small discrepancies can delay processing.
Waiting until the last minute
Many employers, schools, and volunteer organizations require your results before your start date.
Ignoring requests for additional verification
Respond promptly if additional identity verification or fingerprinting is requested.
No. A criminal record check searches for criminal records. A background check may include things like social media checks, employment verification, education verification, credit checks, and other screening services.
In many cases, yes. Many Canadians can complete the application and identity verification online. Third party providers like Triton allow you to complete your check online.
No, most applicants do not require fingerprinting. Fingerprints are typically requested only when necessary to confirm identity or distinguish between individuals with similar information.
There is no universal expiry date. Most employers or organizations decide how recent your criminal record check must be. We suggest confirming with your organization.
Getting a criminal record check online is faster and more convenient than ever. Whether you’re applying for a new job, volunteering in your community or renewing a professional license, choosing a trusted Canadian screening provider can help simplify the process.
With Tritons secure ID verification, streamlined online application and digital delivery, you can complete your criminal record check with confidence while protecting your personal information.
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Thank you for your interest in a demo. Please complete the form below and a member of our sales team will reach out to you within 1 business day to schedule your demo. In the meantime, if you need to reach us urgently, you can also call us at 1 844-874-8667.
To unlock your access to your online demo, brochure, products, pricing and online account registration, tell us a little bit more about you:
Thank you for your interest in more information about Triton’s background checks. Please complete the form below and a member of our sales team will reach out to you within 1 business day to schedule your demo. In the meantime, if you need to reach us urgently, you can also call us at 1 844-874-8667.
To gain access to our platform you must first create an account. Please complete the form below to initiate your account registration. In the meantime, if you need to reach us urgently, you can also call us at 1 844-874-8667.
To gain access to our platform you must first create an account. Please complete the form below to initiate your online account registration.
To gain access to our platform you must first create an account. You indicated that you perform more than 10 background checks per month which may qualify you for reduced pricing. Please complete the form below to initiate your online account registration, once your information is received sales will contact you within the business day to complete your account set-up. In the meantime, if you need to reach us urgently, you can also call us at 1 844-874-8667.
Please complete the form below and a member of our sales team will reach out to you within 1 business day. In the meantime, if you need to reach us urgently, you can also call us at 1 844-874-8667.
Complete the form below to start the online account set-up sequence. Note you will need to have complete information for your company, billing department and intended users.
Please confirm that the background check you are requesting is a SOCIAL MEDIA BACKGROUND CHECK:
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