Get Your Security Guard License in Surrey: A Guide to Fingerprinting
So, you’re on the path to becoming a licensed security professional in British Columbia. You’ve completed your training and are ready to apply, but there’s one critical step you can’t overlook: the mandatory criminal record check, which requires getting your fingerprints taken.
This process can seem confusing, but it doesn’t have to be. As Surrey’s leading RCMP-accredited fingerprinting agency, we’ve helped countless security applicants complete this requirement quickly and correctly. This guide will explain everything you need to know about getting your fingerprints done for your security guard license right here in Surrey.
Why Fingerprinting is a Must for Your Security License
The British Columbia Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, through its Security Programs Division, requires a fingerprint-based criminal record check for all security license applicants. This is a public safety measure to ensure that individuals in positions of trust do not have a criminal history that would make them unsuitable for the role. It is a non-negotiable part of the application process.
The Fingerprinting Process for Surrey Security Applicants: A Step-by-Step Guide
We’ve streamlined this process to be as simple as possible. Here’s exactly what you need to do:
- Receive Your Official Request: First, you must have the official “Request for Fingerprinting” letter/form provided by the Security Programs Division. You cannot get your fingerprints taken for this purpose without this specific document.
- Find an RCMP Accredited Agency: You cannot go just anywhere. Your fingerprints must be captured and submitted electronically by an agency that is formally accredited by the RCMP. Surrey Fingerprint Company is a trusted, RCMP-accredited agency located conveniently in the heart of Surrey.
- Book Your Appointment: Contact us to book a quick appointment. We’ll ensure you have everything you need. While we accept walk-ins, an appointment guarantees you’ll be in and out without a wait.
- Visit Our Office: Bring your “Request for Fingerprinting” form and two pieces of valid, government-issued identification (one must have a photo). Our trained technicians will verify your ID and documents.
- Capture Your Digital Prints: Using our state-of-the-art digital scanners, we will capture your fingerprints quickly and accurately. The process is clean, inkless, and only takes a few minutes.
- Instant Electronic Submission: As soon as your prints are captured, we transmit them directly and securely to the RCMP’s Canadian Criminal Real Time Identification Services (CCRTIS). This is the fastest and most reliable way to get your results to the Security Programs Division.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Security Applicants
What kind of fingerprints do I need for a BC security license?
For a security guard license in British Columbia, you must provide electronic (digital) fingerprints submitted directly to the RCMP by an accredited agency. Ink fingerprints are not accepted for this purpose.
How long does the fingerprinting appointment take?
The appointment itself is very quick. At Surrey Fingerprint Company, the entire process of capturing your digital fingerprints and preparing the submission usually takes only 10-15 minutes.
What do I need to bring to my fingerprinting appointment?
You will need to bring the official ‘Request for Fingerprinting’ form from the BC Security Programs Division and two pieces of valid government-issued ID (one must be photo ID). Examples include a Driver’s License, BC Services Card, Passport, or Permanent Resident Card.
How long until the Security Programs Division gets my results?
Once we submit your electronic fingerprints to the RCMP’s CCRTIS, the results are typically forwarded to the BC Security Programs Division within 72 hours, assuming no criminal record is found. The processing time by the Security Programs Division itself can vary.
Ready to Complete Your Security License Application?
Don’t let the fingerprinting step slow you down. As Surrey’s experts in fingerprinting for security professionals, we guarantee a fast, accurate, and professional service.
We’re located at 112 – 8232 120 Street, Surrey, BC.