How Much Does a Criminal Record Check Cost in Canada?
What a criminal record check costs in Canada, who pays for it, and when it is free — with the published fee for every police service we track.
How much does a criminal record check cost in Canada?
Criminal record check costs in Canada range from $25-100 depending on the method. Online services like SafeHire cost $64.99, police stations charge $25-85, and Canadian Background Checks cost $25 plus fingerprinting fees.
- SafeHire online: $64.99, or $74.99 with rush service
- Local police service: $26.72 to $121 depending on where you live
- Canadian Background Check: $25 plus fingerprinting fees
How Much Does a Criminal Record Check Cost?
Criminal record check costs vary across Canada depending on the type of check, the method used, and your location. This guide provides a complete breakdown to help you understand what to expect and find the best value.
Cost Overview by Method
Online Services
| Check Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Standard Criminal Record Check | $50-$70 |
| Vulnerable Sector Check | $55-$75 |
Police Stations
| Check Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Standard Criminal Record Check | $25-$85 |
| Vulnerable Sector Check | $35-$95 |
Canadian Background Check
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| RCMP processing fee | $25 |
| Fingerprinting (separate) | $25-$100 |
| Total | $50-$125 |
Costs by Province
Ontario
| Police Service | Standard | Vulnerable Sector |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto Police | $65-$85 | $75-$95 |
| York Regional | $45 | $55 |
| Peel Regional | $35-$50 | $45-$60 |
| Ottawa Police | $45-$65 | $55-$75 |
| OPP | $41 | $51 |
British Columbia
| Police Service | Standard | Vulnerable Sector |
|---|---|---|
| Vancouver Police | $50 | $60 |
| Victoria Police | $40 | $50 |
| RCMP Detachments | $25-$70 | $35-$80 |
Alberta
| Police Service | Standard | Vulnerable Sector |
|---|---|---|
| Calgary Police | $45 | $55 |
| Edmonton Police | $45 | $55 |
| RCMP Detachments | $25-$60 | $35-$70 |
Other Provinces
| Province | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Manitoba | $35-$55 |
| Saskatchewan | $30-$50 |
| Quebec | $40-$65 |
| Nova Scotia | $35-$55 |
| New Brunswick | $30-$50 |
What Affects the Cost?
1. Type of Check
Vulnerable sector checks cost more due to the additional database searches and manual review required.
2. Location
Major cities tend to have higher fees than smaller municipalities or online services.
3. Method
Online services often provide competitive pricing while offering faster turnaround.
4. Volume Discounts
Organizations conducting multiple checks may receive volume discounts from some providers.
Are There Free Criminal Record Checks?
Volunteer Checks
Many organizations offer free or discounted checks for volunteers:
- BC Criminal Records Review Program: Free for volunteers
- Some municipal programs: Reduced or waived fees for volunteers
- Non-profit partnerships: Organizations may cover costs
When You Might Pay Less
- Volunteer positions
- Low-income assistance programs (some municipalities)
- Employer-paid checks
- Organization membership benefits
Who Pays for the Check?
Employee Responsibility
In most cases, job applicants pay for their own criminal record check upfront. Some employers reimburse this cost after hiring.
Employer Responsibility
Some employers, particularly larger organizations, pay for or reimburse:
- All pre-employment checks
- Periodic re-checks for current employees
- Checks required for internal promotions
Volunteer Organizations
Many non-profits either:
- Cover the cost entirely
- Partner with check providers for reduced rates
- Have grant funding for background checks
Getting the Best Value
Consider These Factors
- Processing Time
- Faster isn't always more expensive
- Online services often offer better value with quick turnaround
- Convenience
- Factor in travel time and costs to police stations
- Consider time off work for appointments
- Acceptance
- Ensure the check is accepted by your intended recipient
- Accredited online services are widely accepted
- Additional Features
- Digital delivery and sharing
- Secure storage of results
- Customer support
Hidden Costs to Avoid
- Appointment booking fees: Some services charge for scheduling
- Printing and mailing: Additional charges for physical copies
- Rush processing fees: Not always necessary with online services
- Re-submission fees: Ensure accuracy to avoid reapplying
Cost Comparison: Online vs. Police Station
| Factor | Online Service | Police Station |
|---|---|---|
| Base cost | $55-$70 | $25-$85 |
| Travel cost | $0 | $5-$30+ |
| Time off work | None | 1-2 hours |
| Processing time | Minutes to days | Weeks |
| Convenience | 24/7 access | Business hours |
| Total Value | Often better | Varies |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do costs vary so much?
Each police service and jurisdiction sets their own fees based on administrative costs, resources, and local policies.
Can I deduct this cost on my taxes?
Generally no, but if you're self-employed and it's a business requirement, consult a tax professional about potential deductions.
Will employers accept a less expensive check?
Most employers accept any accredited criminal record check, regardless of where it was obtained.
Are there payment plans available?
Some online services offer payment options. Police stations typically require payment at the time of application.
Get an Affordable Criminal Record Check Today
SafeHire charges $64.99 for a criminal record check, or $74.99 with rush processing, and most results arrive in minutes rather than weeks. Our checks are accepted by employers across Canada.
Ready to Get Your Criminal Record Check?
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