Frequently Asked Questions
DIGITAL FINGERPRINTING & CRIMINAL RECORD CHECKS (CPIC)
FAQ
Do I need an appointment?
We offer our services by appointment to better service our clients, but will be pleased to create an appointment for walk-in clients or if you require assistance.
What kinds of identification are required to process my fingerprints?
Applicants should bring two pieces of valid government-issued identification, one of which must be a photo ID.
Acceptable identification includes:
- Passport
- Driver’s Licence
- Birth Certificate
- BCID Card
- BC Services Card
- Canadian Citizenship Card
- Permanent Resident Card
- Certificate of Indian Status
- Immigration documents (e.g., work or study permits)
- Military Family ID Card (MFID)
- Record of Landing for Citizenship Applicant
- Certificate of Live Birth
- Nexus card
Notes:
- It is recommended to bring a letter or file number from the requesting source, if applicable.
- All identification must be current and not expired.
- Photos and photocopies of identification cards are NOT acceptable; originals are required.
- All digital fingerprinting requests for Canadian Citizenship must include a letter from Citizenship and Immigration Canada, which should have a CIC file number and the address for third-party results.
- Ensure this letter is available during the fingerprinting appointment.
- Our experienced staff will be happy to assist in answering any questions.
What payment methods are available?
Major credit cards and debit are accepted at all locations.
How long will it take to get my fingerprints taken?
The digital process is fast, efficient, clean, and normally takes approximately 10 minutes to capture your fingerprints.
Do you also offer Ink fingerprinting?
Yes, we also offer traditional Ink & Roll fingerprinting services. We can complete ink fingerprint cards in RCMP or FBI format. We also have fingerprint forms for many other countries including Japan, South Africa, Egypt, Kenya and others.
How do I get my results?
For federal government security clearances, results will be sent back to the requesting federal department. For all other applications, results can be sent directly to you or to a designated third party of your choosing.
How quickly will I get my results?
If no criminal record is present, results will be mailed within three business days. If a criminal record is present, the process may take longer.
Processing times for fingerprint-based background checks are determined by the RCMP. Typically, transactions where no criminal record is present are completed in three business days and then mailed to the requested address. If a criminal record is present, processing may take longer.
Please consult the RCMP’s website for details on processing times.
FINGERPRINTING OFFICES
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the length of time it takes to process requests, we accept our last client 30 minutes prior to closing. Our locations are cash-free. Debit, VISA and MasterCard are acceptable forms of payment.
VANCOUVER DOWNTOWN
#600-595 Howe St.
Vancouver, BC V6C 2T5
Ph: 604 646 3330 Opt. 2 Opt. 1
Hours: 8:00AM – 3:30PM, Monday to Friday
id.van@commbc.ca
SURREY
#322-10153 King George Blvd,
Surrey Central City Mall
Surrey, BC V3T 2W1
Ph: 604 646 3330 Opt. 2 Opt. 2
Hours: 9:30AM – 5:00PM, Monday to Saturday
id.surrey@commbc.ca
KELOWNA
#100-346 Lawrence Ave.
Kelowna, BC V1Y 6L4
Ph: 250 979 4773
Hours: 8:00AM – 3:30PM Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
Noon – 4:00PM Fridays
Closed Monday and weekends.
id.kelowna@commbc.ca
