If you are 18 years of age or older AND are changing your name, the Name Act requires you to have your fingerprints taken as part of a criminal record check. If you have a criminal record, the name change is noted in the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) database. Fingerprints are only used for the purpose required by the Name Act and confirmation of the criminal record review is returned to the applicant directly from the RCMP.

Effective July 1, 2014, only electronic fingerprints are accepted. You can have your fingerprints taken electronically at any of the following facilities:

• Any RCMP-accredited fingerprinting company or its affiliate who submit fingerprints electronically for the purposes of criminal record checks. For a list of accredited companies and information about affiliates, visit: http://www.rcmp.gc.ca/en/where-do-get-a-criminal-record-check
• Most RCMP detachments
• Vancouver Police
• Victoria Police
• If you are not comfortable visiting a police station for fingerprints, you can get your fingerprints taken at   https://commissionaires.bc.ca/fingerprinting

Please, also note…

• Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, fingerprints are by appointment only until further notice.
• If there is a warrant out for your arrest, you will be arrested when you go for fingerprints. If this situation applies to you, get legal advice.

Fee waiver / reduction

If you require a reduction for the cost of fingerprinting (from $80 to $25) and you live in or near the City of Vancouver, please email lawyer@cwhwc.com to arrange for a reduction.

If paying for any part of your application will create a hardship, please contact lawyer@cwhwc.com for information about a fee subsidy.