Understanding the Results of Canadian Criminal Record Checks
Basic Check Results
A Basic Check primarily searches the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database for any criminal convictions.
What to Expect
If the check yields a negative result, both of the following usually hold true:
- There were no criminal convictions disclosed by the candidate.
- No criminal convictions turned up during our investigation.
Confirmation of a Criminal Record
- The applicant said that they had been convicted of one or more crimes.
- We verified the candidate’s disclosure of convictions and found it to be accurate.
Incomplete
When the check gives an incomplete result, one of the following usually holds true:
- Despite the candidate’s denial of any criminal convictions, our investigation turned up one or more.
- The candidate revealed having one or more convictions; however, our investigation turned up convictions that didn’t match what the candidate said.
- The applicant revealed prior convictions, but some details (name, date, court) do not match our records.
- We were unable to finish our check using the candidate’s name and birthdate; a fingerprint check is advised.
- The applicant stated convictions, but our investigation turned up nothing.
Unfortunately, no. The RCMP does not share the reason behind an "incomplete" result with third-party providers like Credibled. These outcomes typically mean more verification is needed or the data couldn’t return a clear match.
For more on how the RCMP handles these cases, check out their official policy (see Section 10.4):
🔗 RCMP Policy – Search results and standard responses
Enhanced Check Results
An Enhanced Check goes beyond the CPIC database to include local police records and, if applicable, a Vulnerable Sector Check.
What to Expect
Clear Result: If the outcome is Clear, no records were found.
Not Clear Result: If the outcome is Not Clear, you may see:
- Summary conviction offenses
- Pending charges
- Conditional and absolute discharges
- Wanted or accused person information
- Pending probation, court orders, undertakings, release conditions
- Restorative justice diversions
- Persons of special interest
- Deportation orders
- CBSA illegal entry charges
- Stayed charges
Overall Check Results
Overall outcomes in Canada are either Cleared or Review. They depend on the combination of your Basic and Enhanced findings.
| Basic Check | Enhanced Check | Overall Result |
|---|---|---|
| Negative | Clear | Cleared |
| Negative | Not Clear | Review |
| Confirmation of a Criminal Record | Clear or Not Clear | Review |
| Incomplete | Clear or Not Clear | Review |
Understanding Negative Results
A Negative Result indicates that concerning information was found. Common types include:
- Convictions: Offense type, date, jurisdiction.
- Charges: Pending charges without conviction.
- Vulnerable Sector Findings: Pardoned offenses related to vulnerable populations.
Key Sections of the Report
- Personal Information: Verifies identity.
- Search Details: Lists databases and sources.
- Offense Details: Describes any findings.
- Additional Notes: Context from law enforcement or the screening service.
Making Sense of the Results
- For Employers: A negative result doesn’t automatically disqualify; evaluate relevance to the role.
- For Individuals: Use these insights to prepare for employer discussions and clarify discrepancies.