Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC)

In early 2024, a significant change was introduced to the licensing process for security guards and private investigators in Ontario. Previously, when the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services (MCSCS) oversaw licensing, applicants did not need to obtain their own background checks, the ministry handled this internally as part of the application process. However, with regulatory updates, applicants are now required to obtain a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) on their own before applying for or renewing their licence.

This means that individuals must proactively request a CRJMC from an authorized provider, such as:

• An Ontario municipal police service
• The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)
• A First Nations police service in Ontario
• A private business authorized to conduct police record checks like The Smith Investigation Agency Inc., Smith Security Inc., and Training Centre Canada

Applicants must pay a fee for their CRJMC and ensure it is completed within the required six-month validity period.

What does the CRJMC Include?

A Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check (CRJMC) provides more detailed background information than a standard criminal record check, including:

• Criminal convictions
• Findings of guilt under the Youth Criminal Justice Act
• Outstanding charges, arrest warrants, and certain judicial orders
• Absolute and conditional discharges

This level of screening helps ensure that individuals working in security and investigations meet the legal and ethical standards required for their role.

What Applicants Need to Know

• The CRJMC must be issued within the last six months to be valid for your application.
• For online applications, the CRJMC must be the original digital PDF file obtained from the issuing police service.
• For mail applications, only the original paper document is accepted, photocopies will be rejected.
• If an applicant resides outside of Ontario, they may submit an out-of-province equivalent police check, provided it meets Ontario’s CRJMC requirements.

For Help

For the most up-to-date information on obtaining or renewing your security guard or private investigator licence, refer to the Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General.

If you are interested in becoming a professional licensed security guard or private investigator, contact our preferred experts, Smith Investigation Agency . They offer government approved training courses and CRJMC services.

								
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