In this guide, you will learn about a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC), the options to apply for it, fees, waiting times eligibility and consequences for getting or renewing a security guard license.
As of February 2024, a comprehensive police or an authorized third-party CRJMC check is mandatory for all Ontario applicants seeking security guard licenses or other positions of trust within the private security industry.
Types of Police Record Checks
A police record check is a crucial tool for assessing an individual’s criminal history. There are various types of police record checks, each serving a distinct purpose. Understanding the differences between these checks is essential for ensuring you request the right type of screening.
Criminal Record Check (CRC): This is the most basic form of police record check. It reveals any criminal convictions that have not been pardoned. This check is often used for employment purposes where a basic level of screening is required.
Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC): This check is more comprehensive than a CRC. It includes not only criminal convictions but also findings of guilt under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, outstanding charges, warrants, and judicial orders. This type of check is essential for positions of trust, such as security guards.
Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC): This is the most detailed police record check. It includes everything in a CRJMC plus any record suspensions (pardons) related to sexual offences. This check is mandatory for individuals working with vulnerable populations, such as children or the elderly.
By understanding these different types of police record checks, you can ensure you request the appropriate screening for your specific needs.
What is a CRJMC criminal record check?
This comprehensive check covers outstanding charges, warrants, and judicial orders. This background check also includes local police records, which are crucial for a thorough assessment of an individual's background. The Criminal Records Act outlines the eligibility criteria for record suspensions, which can separate past criminal convictions from other criminal documents.
Security guards must now get CRJMC as part of the licensing process; it used to be included in the application. A CRJMC could contain findings of guilt from the Youth Criminal Justice Act, significantly impacting employment and volunteer opportunities with vulnerable groups.
When conducting a CRJMC check, names are cross-referenced with criminal records, uncovering findings of guilt under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, as well as details like guilt findings without record suspension, pending entries (charges, warrants), and court orders (e.g., peace bonds, probation orders) within defined time period.
Eligibility and Process
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) in Ontario, you must meet specific criteria. These include:
Having reached the age of 18 years or above,
Being a resident of Ontario. Your current or recent Ontario address is required on the CRJMC form.
Possessing a valid government-issued ID. Examples include an Ontario Driver’s License, Ontario Photo Card, passport, citizenship card, and military ID.
Eligibility requirements for the CRJMC may differ based on the intended use (e.g., employment, volunteering). Meeting these requirements is the first step to getting your criminal record and judicial matters check, which is essential for obtaining or renewing a security guard licence.
Application at a local police station (in-person or online)
Municipal police departments handle applications submitted in person at their station. The police station you should apply to depends on your address. For example, if you live in Toronto, visit the Toronto Police Service; Peel, York, and Ottawa have their own stations. Background checks usually require residency in the area, according to police policy.

When applying for licenses related to private security and investigative work, applicants should reference the Investigative Services Branch.
In rare cases, online applications are possible, but they require creating a separate accounts through the police service.
It’s a smart move to plan your visit ahead of time. Most times, anticipate having to visit a police precinct in person. Don’t forget your proof of residency and government-issued ID when you apply to CRJMC. Next, you’ll need to complete a form after paying the fees. After that, the wait for your results is in the range of weeks, the exact timeframe depending on the police municipality.
Fees and Payments
When engaging with police record check services, it’s important to understand the cost implications and the various payment methods available. This will ensure that your transactions are as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
The fees for police record checks can vary significantly depending on the type of check and the police service conducting it. For instance, a standard Criminal Record Check might cost less than a comprehensive Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check. Additionally, fees can differ between municipalities, with some police services charging more than others.
Payment methods also vary. Most police services accept payments via credit card, debit card, or online payment systems for online applications. For in-person applications, cash and certified cheques might also be accepted. It’s advisable to check the specific payment options available with your local police service to avoid any inconvenience.
Understanding the fees and payment methods beforehand can help you plan accordingly and ensure a smooth application process for your police record check.
A CRJMC check from the police costs anywhere from $60 to $70. You can expect to wait 3 weeks on average.
Online application
All the benefits of a police-issued CRJMC are available through an authorized third-party provider. You’ll bypass the trouble of visiting the precinct, weeks of waiting for the results, and inflated fees. CRJMC online can be less expensive, and the turnaround time is often as short as 15 minutes.
CRJMC.net is a leading online CRJMC check service provider. A with CRJMC.net, you complete a CRJMC background check total cost of $54.99, fully online, with a turnaround time of 15 minutes. You can do it from anywhere.
CRJMC check passing criteria
To pass a CRJMC check in Ontario, you must not:
Have any unresolved charges or warrants. Applicants must resolve all outstanding criminal charges and warrants. This covers any outstanding legal issues potentially endangering public safety or trustworthiness. Disclosures of summary convictions are omitted after five years have passed. Pardons (Record Suspensions) are also possible.
Be subject to any judicial orders. This covers a range of court-imposed legal restrictions or prohibitions impacting an individual’s license eligibility.

List of Ontario entities providing CRJMC checks (updated 2025)
Location | Price | Processing Time | Web Address |
CRJMC.net | $54.99 | 15 minutes | |
Toronto City | $29 | 1-2 weeks | |
Peel Region | $34 | 5 weeks | |
York Region | $69 | 1-2 weeks | |
Ottawa City | $69 | 1-2 weeks | |
Durham Region | $59 | 3 weeks | |
Hamilton City | $50 | 2 weeks | |
London City | $47 | 2 weeks | |
Waterloo Region | $43 | 1-2 weeks | |
Halton Region | $33 | 4 weeks | |
Windsor City | $55 | 3 weeks | |
Niagara Region | $60 | 6 weeks | |
Greater Sudbury City | $42 | 3 weeks | |
Guelph City | $42 | 3 weeks | |
Thunder Bay City | $60 | 3 weeks | |
Brantford City | $67 | 2 weeks | |
Barrie City | $59 | 3 weeks | |
Peterborough City | $46 | 3 weeks | |
Sarnia City | $52 | 2 weeks | |
Chatham-Kent Municipality | $55 | 2 weeks | |
Sault Ste. Marie City | $50 | 2 weeks | |
North Bay City | $45 | 5 weeks | |
Kingston City | $40 | 3 weeks | |
Owen Sound City | $55 | 3 weeks |
Privacy and Security
Understanding how police record check services handle personal data and the relevant laws is vital.
Background checks from police require processing sensitive personal information. Several privacy laws and regulations protect this data to guarantee its secure and confidential treatment. To illustrate, such information gathered during a police record check is only shared as initially requested, protecting against unauthorized access.
Additionally, police services and authorized third-party providers implement robust security measures to protect your data from unauthorized access, loss, or theft. These measures include encryption, secure data storage, and strict access controls.
Knowing the privacy and security measures used for police record checks gives you confidence in how your personal data is handled.
Travel and Immigration Implications
International travel may be affected by a negative police record check. Certain offences may result in denied entry to some countries.
Many visa applications necessitate a police record check from the applicant’s country. Having a criminal record, especially for serious offenses, could mean your visa application is denied or your entry is refused. The US and Canada, for instance, have rigid entry rules for those with criminal histories.
Always confirm the entry requirements for your chosen destination. If you have a criminal record, you might need a waiver or special permission to enter, depending on the circumstances. Furthermore, securing a Record Suspension (pardon) in Canada can lessen the effect a criminal record has on your travel.
Plan your international trip carefully; understanding the travel and immigration effects of a police record check is key to avoiding issues.
Are there different types of CRJMC?
No, the same CRJMC result document can be used for all purposes and professions. Whether it's a security guard license, Private Investigator license, Loss Prevention personnel, healthcare workers in sensitive positions etc. There are not different types of CRJMC checks.
FAQ: CRJMC for getting or renewing a security guard license

We offer below additional advice for people wanting to get a CRJMC for security icense purposes.
How do I submit my criminal record check to get or renew my security guard license?
For online applications, upload digital criminal record checks; for physical copies, mail them to Service Ontario's Licensing Portal.
Can I use my online CRJMC check to apply for a security guard license?
Yes, provided an authorized third party carries it out. Make sure the entity conducting your CRJMC has the proper authorization. Securing or renewing a security guard license requires that guarantee for CRJMC to hold value.
Does having a criminal record prevent me from getting a job as a security guard?
A CRJMC check will reveal any criminal offenses. Having a criminal offense prevents you from obtaining a security guard license, unless 5 years have passed since conviction. It is now possible to receive a Record Suspension, which is the modern equivalent of a pardon.
You can check the following list of offences under the criminal code of Canada to make sure you are eligible to become a security guard and you will pass CRJMC check.