Understanding FBI and RCMP Fingerprinting: A Complete Comparison

FBI Fingerprinting vs. RCMP Fingerprinting

Introduction

At Notarizers, we understand that fingerprinting plays a vital role in identity verification, background checks, immigration, employment, and legal procedures. Two of the most recognized fingerprinting authorities are the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Canada. By understanding the differences between FBI fingerprinting vs RCMP fingerprinting, individuals and businesses can better navigate legal and regulatory requirements.

If you need notary services for fingerprinting documents, Notarizers—through its website Notarizers.ca—offers professional and reliable notarization to ensure your documents are legally authenticated.

In this guide, we will cover:

  • What FBI and RCMP fingerprinting are
  • The key differences between them
  • The fingerprinting process
  • How to get fingerprinting services
  • Why notarization is important for fingerprint documents

What Is FBI Fingerprinting?

FBI fingerprinting refers to a biometric identification process primarily used in the United States. It supports background checks, security clearance, immigration, employment verification, and law enforcement. The FBI Criminal Background Check, commonly requested by employers and government agencies, relies on fingerprint-based identification.

Who Needs FBI Fingerprinting?

You may need FBI fingerprinting for various purposes. For example:
✔ U.S. visa and immigration applications
✔ Employment background checks (federal agencies, security-sensitive jobs)
✔ Security clearances
✔ Adoption procedures
✔ Licensing for professions like healthcare, law enforcement, and finance
✔ U.S. citizenship applications

How FBI Fingerprinting Works

  • Fingerprint Collection – Technicians capture fingerprints using Live Scan or traditional ink-based methods.
  • Submission to the FBI – Applicants or agencies send the prints electronically or by mail for analysis.
  • Processing & Background Check – The FBI compares the fingerprints against its Integrated Automated Fingerprint Identification System (IAFIS).
  • Report Issuance – The bureau then generates a report outlining any criminal history.

Where to Get FBI Fingerprinting Done?

Several options are available to complete FBI fingerprinting. These include:

  • FBI-Approved Channelers: These private agencies have authorization to collect and submit fingerprints.
  • Local Police Departments: Many police stations provide fingerprinting services.
  • Notary and Fingerprinting Service Providers: Notarizers, through Notarizers.ca, offers both fingerprinting and notarization services.

What Is RCMP Fingerprinting?

RCMP fingerprinting is a similar process conducted in Canada by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). It is mainly used for criminal record checks, immigration, employment, name changes, and security clearances.

Who Needs RCMP Fingerprinting?

RCMP fingerprinting is necessary in several situations. For instance:
✔ Canadian immigration and visa applications
✔ Employment background checks (government and security-sensitive jobs)
✔ Security clearance applications
✔ Name changes (to confirm identity)
✔ Criminal record checks for Canadian citizens and permanent residents
✔ Adoption and volunteer work in sensitive sectors

How RCMP Fingerprinting Works

  • Fingerprint Collection – Agencies collect fingerprints using either digital Live Scan or ink-and-paper methods.
  • Submission to the RCMP – Digital prints go directly to the Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS), while ink-based prints are digitized first.
  • Processing & Background Check – The RCMP checks fingerprints against the National Repository of Criminal Records.
  • Criminal Record Check Report – If no record exists, a clearance certificate is issued.

Where to Get RCMP Fingerprinting Done?

You can access RCMP fingerprinting services in different ways. Specifically:

  • RCMP-Accredited Agencies: Approved providers such as Notarizers, Fingerprinter, and Reliability Screening Solutions can handle submissions.
  • Local Police Stations: Numerous municipal departments offer fingerprinting services.
  • Notary and Fingerprinting Service Providers: Notarizers.ca delivers trusted, professional fingerprinting and notarization support.

FBI vs. RCMP Fingerprinting: Key Differences

Feature: FBI Fingerprinting (USA) | RCMP Fingerprinting (Canada)
Issuing Authority: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) | Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
Purpose: Criminal background checks, employment, security clearance, immigration | Criminal record checks, Canadian immigration, employment, security clearance
Fingerprinting Method: Digital (Live Scan) or Ink | Digital (Live Scan) or Ink
Processing Time: 24 hours (electronic), 3-4 weeks (mail) | 3-8 weeks
Submission Method: Online (via FBI-approved channelers) or mail | Online (via accredited agencies) or mail
Notary Requirement: May be required for authentication | May be required for international use

Why Notarization Is Important for Fingerprinting Documents

Many organizations insist on notarized fingerprint-based background checks before accepting them. A notary public verifies both the authenticity of the document and the signer’s identity. This process prevents fraud and ensures the document is legally valid.

Benefits of Notarizing Fingerprinting Documents

✔ Confirms authenticity and document credibility
✔ Required for international use in immigration, employment, or legal processes
✔ Prevents tampering or unauthorized changes
✔ Helps streamline legal and administrative workflows

For FBI or RCMP fingerprinting document notarization, Notarizers.ca offers dependable notary services across Canada.

How to Get Your Fingerprinting Documents Notarized

Step 1: Complete the Fingerprinting Process

Begin by obtaining your FBI or RCMP fingerprint results from an accredited agency.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents for Notarization

Gather all necessary identification and relevant paperwork before your appointment.

Step 3: Visit a Trusted Notary Public

A licensed notary from Notarizers.ca will verify your documents and identity before notarizing them.

Step 4: Use the Notarized Documents

You can now submit your notarized fingerprinting documents for use in immigration, employment, or legal applications.

Conclusion

FBI and RCMP fingerprinting serve as essential tools for verifying identity, conducting background checks, and fulfilling legal requirements. Understanding their key distinctions helps streamline processes for immigration, employment, and legal compliance.

Additionally, notarizing fingerprinting documents adds legal weight and credibility—especially for international submissions. For trusted and professional fingerprinting notarization, Notarizers.ca stands ready to assist with secure and efficient services tailored to your needs.

For further information on FBI Fingerprinting vs. RCMP Fingerprinting, please contact Notarizers by email at Info@Notarizers.ca or by phone at 416-782-5926. Victor Opara. Victor Nnamdi Opara. Notary Public. RCMP Accredited Fingerprinting Agent. FBI Accredited Fingerprinting. Vulnerable Sector Checks. RCMP C-216C. FBI FD-258, FD-1164. Identity History Summary Request. Pardons. Waivers. Police Clearance Certificate. Criminal Record Check. C.I.P.C. Check. CCDC Stamps Statutory Declaration 416-782-5926. Authentication and Legalization. Apostille. Notarizers.ca. in North York, Toronto, Etobicoke, Scarborough, Ajax, Markham, Woodbridge, Thornhill, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Mississauga, and Brampton.