Your Fingerprinting Appointment: What to Expect
If you’ve booked a fingerprinting appointment, it’s completely normal to wonder what the process looks like from start to finish. Whether it’s for employment, immigration, a background check, or a government requirement, understanding what to expect can make the experience simple and stress-free. At Smith Security Inc., we provide RCMP-accredited fingerprinting services designed to be fast, secure, and professional. From the moment you arrive to the point your prints are submitted, every step is handled with precision and care.
Why Fingerprinting Is Required
Fingerprinting is often required when a name-based background check is not sufficient. This can happen for a number of reasons, including:
Employment or licensing requirements
Immigration or citizenship applications
Government clearances
Legal or court-related matters
Because fingerprints are unique to each individual, they provide a reliable way to confirm identity and ensure accurate results. As an RCMP-accredited provider, Smith Security ensures that every fingerprint submission meets strict national standards. You can learn more about our process and services directly on our fingerprinting page.
Preparing for Your Appointment
Before you arrive, it’s important to make sure you bring the correct identification. Your identity must be verified before the fingerprinting process can begin.
Typically, you will need:
Two pieces of valid government-issued ID
At least one piece must include a photo
Any documentation provided by the requesting organization
Arriving prepared helps ensure your appointment runs smoothly and avoids unnecessary delays. If you are unsure what to bring, it is always best to confirm in advance through our contact page.
Step 1: Identity Verification
When you arrive for your appointment, the first step is identity verification. The technician will review your identification to confirm your identity and ensure all information is accurate.
This step is critical, as any errors in your personal information could delay the processing of your application. Once your ID has been verified, the technician will begin entering your information into the system.
Step 2: Data Entry and Photo Capture
After your identification has been confirmed, the technician will input your details into the system. This includes your name, date of birth, and other required information based on your application.
At this stage, a passport-style photo will also be taken. This photo becomes part of your file and is used for identification purposes during the processing of your fingerprint submission.
Step 3: Determining Your Submission Type
Not all fingerprint submissions are the same. Depending on your situation, your prints may need to be sent to different destinations.
During your appointment, the technician will confirm:
The type of background check required
Whether the results are being sent to you or a third party
The correct destination for submission
This could include a government agency, employer, lawyer, or another authorized organization. Ensuring this information is correct at the beginning helps prevent delays later in the process.
Step 4: Consent Forms and Authorization
Before fingerprinting begins, you will be asked to complete the necessary consent forms. These forms authorize the submission and processing of your fingerprints.
You will typically complete:
A third-party consent form (if applicable)
An RCMP consent form
These documents confirm that you understand and approve how your information will be used and where your results will be sent. This step is an important part of maintaining compliance with privacy and legal requirements.
Step 5: The Fingerprinting Process
Once all documentation is complete, the fingerprinting process begins. This is done using digital equipment designed to capture clear and accurate prints.
The process follows a specific sequence:
Your four right fingers are scanned together, pressed flat against the scanner
Your four left fingers are scanned in the same way
Both thumbs are scanned together
The system immediately analyzes the quality of your prints. If they do not meet the required standard, the technician will guide you through a rescan to ensure accuracy.
In some cases, you may also be asked to scan a single finger individually. This acts as a digital signature and is often required when results are being sent to a third party.
Step 6: Quality Check and Submission
Once your prints have been successfully captured, the system confirms that they meet the required quality standards. At this point, your fingerprint record is finalized.
You will then be provided with your Document Control Number (DCN). This number is unique to your application and can be used to reference your submission if needed.
After your appointment, the technician submits your fingerprints directly to the RCMP for processing. This marks the completion of the in-office portion of your appointment.
What Happens After Your Appointment
Once your fingerprints have been submitted, the process moves out of the technician’s hands and into the RCMP system.
At this stage:
Your application is reviewed and processed by the RCMP
Background checks are completed as required
Results are sent to the designated recipient
Results are typically delivered by postal mail, either directly to you or to the third party you selected during your appointment.
If you need to follow up on your application after submission, you can contact the RCMP directly using your DCN for reference.
Why Choose an RCMP-Accredited Provider
Choosing an RCMP-accredited provider ensures that your fingerprints are collected and submitted according to national standards. This reduces the risk of delays, errors, or rejected submissions.
At Smith Security Inc., our fingerprinting services are designed to provide:
Accurate and high-quality digital fingerprint capture
Secure submission directly to the RCMP
Professional guidance throughout the process
Fast and efficient appointments
Working with an experienced provider ensures that your application is handled correctly from the start.
Making Your Appointment Simple
Fingerprinting may sound complicated, but the process is straightforward when you know what to expect. From identity verification to submission, each step is designed to ensure accuracy and security.
Being prepared, bringing the correct identification, and understanding the process can make your appointment quick and stress-free.
If you are ready to book or need assistance, visiting our fingerprinting page or reaching out through our contact page is the best place to start.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what to expect during a fingerprinting appointment can remove uncertainty and help you feel confident going into the process. From the moment you arrive to the submission of your prints, each step is handled with care to ensure your application is processed correctly.
By choosing a trusted, RCMP-accredited provider, you can be confident that your fingerprint submission will meet all required standards and be handled professionally from start to finish.
Check out our YouTube Video below explaining the process of what to expect at your fingerprint appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a fingerprinting appointment take?
Most appointments are completed within 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of your application.
What happens if my fingerprints are rejected?
If prints do not meet quality standards, they will be retaken during your appointment to ensure acceptance.
What is a DCN number?
The Document Control Number is a unique reference number assigned to your fingerprint submission.
Can my results be sent directly to an organization?
Yes, with your consent, results can be sent directly to a third party such as an employer or government agency.
How will I receive my results?
Results are typically sent by mail, either to you or to the authorized recipient you selected.
Who do I contact if there is a delay?
Once submitted, you can contact the RCMP directly using your DCN for updates on your application.
