Here is how you can get a criminal record check in Edmonton

A criminal record check is required for many things in Edmonton, whether a job, volunteering, immigration, or seeking a professional license. In Edmonton, the Edmonton Police Service (EPS) facilitates this process through its Police Information Check Section (PICS). Finding the correct way to get a criminal record check in Edmonton can be daunting. This article will guide you through the nuances of the criminal record check so you can process the documents without any hassles. 

Police Information Check (PIC):

A PIC in Edmonton is a name-based search that includes a database search from the National Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC), local police records, and Alberta court records via the Justice Online Information Network (JOIN). This check is done for employment, volunteering, and other non-vulnerable sector positions. You can apply for these checks at the police station or with third-party companies that can perform these checks for you without any wait.

Police Information Check with the Vulnerable Sector (PIC-VS):

Note: This check can only be performed by the local police stations. No third-party agencies are authorized to do this check.

Local Police Records Check (LPRC):

This check, which involves reviewing local police records, is necessary for record suspension (pardon) applications.

RCMP Certified Criminal Record Check:

A fingerprint-based check is done under the following circumstances: 

1. If the name-based check turns out to be inconclusive
2. If a vulnerable sector check requires further processing
3. When you are applying for legal processes like immigration

A fingerprint-based check can be done at the local police station, or you can approach a third-party authorized company to perform these checks. Look for RCMP-authorized companies that offer these services at nominal prices and features like a discreet check process, faster turnaround time, and translation services.

1. Online Application:  The Edmonton police service offers a 24/7 portal where you can apply for the PIC online. Applicants must provide identification and may need to answer authentication questions based on their credit file.

2. In Person Application:  This feature is used under two circumstances, namely:

   -If you cannot apply online, you can visit the station with the relevant documents on the day of your appointment. Candidates with an appointment are given preferences over walk-ins. 

   -If your online result is inconclusive, you may have to come to the police station for fingerprint-based checks on a pre-decided date.

3. Third-party Accredited Companies: Some companies have authorization from the government and municipal police departments to run PIC and fingerprint-based checks for candidates in Edmonton. They can take your details and submit them to the RCMP for a fingerprint-based check. The PIC also takes much shorter time to process, as you do not have to wait in a long queue for your results. 

You may need a criminal record check in Edmonton for:

• Employment: Especially for jobs in security, education, healthcare, and government.
• Volunteering: Particularly if you’ll be working with vulnerable groups.
• Immigration and Citizenship: Permanent residency, citizenship, or visa applications are required.
• Licensing: For professions like security guards, cannabis producers, and more.

The documentation for various types of checks requires a different set of authorizations. This has been explained as under:

Online Application:

• Verify your identity electronically (often through credit history questions). Please note that credit history can be challenging, especially if you do not have any credit history. The third-party companies offer better services nominal fee that is worth it when you can get apt results in smaller span. 
• Upload or provide digital copies of two pieces of government-issued ID (one must be a photo ID).
• Complete the application and pay the fee online.
  In Person Application: 
• Bring two valid government-issued IDs (one with a photo).
• Provide proof of your Edmonton address for the past five years.
• Complete the application at the service counter.
  Note: You must apply in person for vulnerable sector checks and cannot apply on behalf of someone else.

Youth Applicants: The Edmonton Police Service accepts applications from youth aged 12-17 for PICs, with specific guidelines regarding convictions and the type of organization requesting the check.