In Canada, criminal background checks are categorized by levels based on the depth of information they reveal. A Level 1 check, officially called a Criminal Record Check, is the most basic. A Level 2 check, known as a Criminal Record & Judicial Matters Check, is more comprehensive.
Vulnerable Sector Checks include all Level 2 information plus pardoned sexual offence records when permitted and potential non-conviction disclosures under exceptional disclosure criteria. They are required for positions working with vulnerable populations and involve additional procedures, including fingerprint confirmation.
Feature |
Level 1 |
Level 2 |
Convictions shown |
Yes |
Yes |
Pending charges |
No |
Yes |
Judicial orders |
No |
Yes |
Discharges |
No |
Yes |
Pardoned offences |
No |
No |
Primary uses |
General screening |
Enhanced screening |
Vulnerable sector adequate |
No |
No |
Method |
Name-based via police/online |
Name-based via police/online |
Below is a summary table of which type of background check is typically required for various roles in Canada. Please note these are guidelines only— Employers will determine the specific check required.
Position or Occupation (Employer may set different requirements) | Criminal Record Check (CRC) | Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) | Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) |
---|---|---|---|
School Teacher or Teaching Assistant (on hire or placement) | ✔️ | ||
Office worker | ✔️ | ||
Social Worker | ✔️ | ||
Daycare Worker | ✔️ | ||
School Bus Driver | ✔️ | ||
Taxi Cab Driver | ✔️ | ||
Taxi Licensing | ✔️ | ||
Municipal Licensing | ✔️ | ||
Ride-sharing | ✔️ | ||
Retail Worker | ✔️ | ||
Personal Support Worker | ✔️ | ||
Factory Worker | ✔️ | ||
Food Vendor | ✔️ | ||
Minor Sporting Coach | ✔️ | ||
Scout Leader | ✔️ | ||
Hospitality (bars, restaurants, hotels) | ✔️ | ||
Tenant for rental property | ✔️ | ✔️ | |
Youth Worker | ✔️ | ||
Nursing/Retirement Home Worker | ✔️ | ||
School Crossing Guard | ✔️ | ||
Landlord/Superintendent | ✔️ | ||
Security Guard | ✔️ | ✔️ | |
Bank Teller | ✔️ | ||
Immigration/Permanent Resident | ✔️ |
CRC = Criminal Record Check
CRJMC = Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check
VSC = Vulnerable Sector Check
Note: The above is a guideline only. Requirements may differ based on province, organization, or employer policy.
The Level 1 Criminal Record Check provides a basic overview of conviction history, suitable for general screening. The Level 2 Criminal Record & Judicial Matters Check adds pending charges, judicial orders, and recent discharges, making it ideal for higher-trust roles and professional licensing. Neither includes pardoned offences; those are only revealed through a Vulnerable Sector Check (Level 3) when legally required.