Working with controlled goods or military technology in Canada? The Controlled Goods Program (CGP) requires mandatory fingerprint-based criminal record checks for designated officials, owners, and employees who examine, possess, or transfer controlled goods. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about CGP fingerprinting requirements, security assessments, required forms, and the step-by-step process to obtain your RCMP-certified criminal record check in British Columbia.
What is the Controlled Goods Program (CGP)?
The Controlled Goods Program (CGP) is administered by Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) under the Defence Production Act. It is a federal regulatory program that controls access to sensitive military items, technology, and technical data listed in the Defence Production Act.
Controlled goods include military equipment, components, technology, and technical data that have military or strategic applications. Any individual or organization that needs to examine, possess, or transfer these controlled goods in Canada must register with the CGP and comply with strict security requirements.
⚖️ Legal Requirement Under the Defence Production Act
Registration with the Controlled Goods Program is not optional – it is a legal requirement under federal law. Failure to register when required, or allowing unregistered individuals to access controlled goods, is an offence under the Defence Production Act and can result in prosecution and serious penalties.
What Are Controlled Goods?
Controlled goods are items and technology specified in the Defence Production Act that have military or strategic significance. Examples include:
- ✓Military aircraft, naval vessels, and armored vehicles
- ✓Weapons systems, firearms, and ammunition
- ✓Military electronics, sensors, and communications equipment
- ✓Components and parts for military equipment
- ✓Military software and technical data
- ✓Cryptographic equipment and cybersecurity technology
- ✓Aerospace and defense manufacturing equipment
Who Needs Fingerprinting for the Controlled Goods Program?
The Controlled Goods Program has specific fingerprinting requirements for different roles within registered organizations. Understanding who needs what type of criminal record check is essential for compliance.
1. Designated Officials (Mandatory Fingerprinting)
Every organization registered in the CGP must appoint at least one Designated Official (DO). The Designated Official is responsible for conducting security assessments of all employees, officers, and directors who need access to controlled goods.
MANDATORY: Designated Officials MUST submit fingerprint-based criminal record checks
For security assessment applications of designated officials submitted to the Controlled Goods Program, a certified criminal record check based on fingerprints is mandatory. Name-based checks are NOT acceptable for Designated Officials.
2. Authorized Individuals and Company Owners (Strongly Recommended)
Authorized Individuals and Company Owners (holding 20% or more of voting shares or interests) can submit either fingerprint-based or name-based criminal record checks. However, Public Services and Procurement Canada strongly recommends fingerprint-based checks.
Why fingerprinting is recommended:
- ✓100% accurate identification – no confusion with similar names
- ✓No need to check every name you’ve used in your lifetime (maiden names, married names, etc.)
- ✓More comprehensive search of RCMP databases
- ✓Less cumbersome and potentially less expensive than multiple name-based checks
- ✓Faster processing with electronic submission
3. Employees, Officers, and Directors (Recommended)
For security assessments of employees, officers, and directors conducted by the company’s Designated Official, the CGP recommends that fingerprint-based criminal record checks be used. While not mandatory, fingerprint-based checks provide superior accuracy and are the best practice for CGP compliance.
Required Forms and Documentation
To complete your security assessment for the Controlled Goods Program, you’ll need specific forms and supporting documentation.
Security Assessment Application Form (PWGSC-TPSGC 465-2e)
The primary form required is the Security Assessment Application (Form PWGSC-TPSGC 465-2e), available as a PDF download from the Controlled Goods Program website at canada.ca.
This form collects comprehensive information about the individual being security assessed, including:
- ✓Personal information (full legal name, date of birth, citizenship status)
- ✓Employment history and education
- ✓Residential addresses for past 5 years
- ✓Personal references (non-family members)
- ✓Declaration of criminal history or security concerns
Supporting Documentation Required
Along with the completed Security Assessment Application form, you must submit:
📋 Required Documents Checklist
- ✓Certified Criminal Record Check Based on Fingerprints (or name-based if permitted for your role)
- ✓Two Pieces of Government-Issued ID (at least one must be photo ID)
- ✓Proof of Citizenship: Birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card
- ✓Proof of Residence: Driver’s license or government-issued document with address
Step-by-Step: How to Get Fingerprinted for CGP
Follow this comprehensive guide to complete your fingerprint-based criminal record check for Controlled Goods Program security assessments:
Step 1: Determine If You Need Fingerprinting
Check your role in the CGP registration process. Designated Officials must obtain fingerprint-based checks (mandatory). Authorized Individuals and Owners should use fingerprint-based checks (strongly recommended). Employees can use fingerprint-based checks for more accurate results.
Step 2: Download and Review Required Forms
Download the Security Assessment Application form (PWGSC-TPSGC 465-2e) from the Controlled Goods Program website at canada.ca. Review the form requirements and gather necessary documentation including two pieces of government-issued ID, proof of citizenship, and proof of residence.
Step 3: Book Your Fingerprinting Appointment
Contact Surrey Fingerprint Company to schedule your appointment. We offer same-day appointments, understand CGP requirements, and provide RCMP-accredited fingerprinting services. Call (604) 825-8882, email info@surreyfingerprint.com, or book online.
Step 4: Attend Your Fingerprinting Appointment
Bring two pieces of valid government-issued identification (at least one must be photo ID). Acceptable ID includes driver’s license, passport, Canadian citizenship certificate, permanent resident card, or provincial ID card. Our certified technicians will capture your fingerprints digitally and submit them electronically to RCMP.
✅ Acceptable Primary ID (Photo ID Required)
- ✓Canadian Driver’s License
- ✓Canadian Passport
- ✓Canadian Citizenship Certificate (with photo)
- ✓Permanent Resident Card
- ✓Provincial/Territorial Photo ID Card
During your appointment:
- ✓Our technicians will verify your identification
- ✓Fingerprints are captured digitally (clean, fast, no ink mess)
- ✓Electronic submission directly to RCMP for fastest processing
- ✓Receive receipt as proof of submission
The entire process takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
💰 Cost of Fingerprinting
At Surrey Fingerprint Company:
$50
Includes digital fingerprinting, electronic RCMP submission, and expert guidance
Step 5: Receive Your Criminal Record Check Results
RCMP will mail your certified criminal record check certificate to the address you provided during fingerprinting. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days if no record is found, or up to 120 days if a record exists. Keep the original certificate safe.
| Status |
Processing Time |
Details |
| No Criminal Record |
3-5 business days |
Fast turnaround for clean records |
| Criminal Record Found |
Up to 120 days |
Comprehensive review required |
| CGP Security Assessment |
32 business days (standard) |
Currently longer due to volume |
Step 6: Submit Your CGP Security Assessment Application
Complete the Security Assessment Application form and submit it to the Controlled Goods Program along with your certified criminal record check results, two pieces of government ID, proof of citizenship, and proof of residence. Applications can be submitted by email, fax, or mail to Public Services and Procurement Canada.
Submission Methods:
- ✓Email: Check CGP website for current submission email
- ✓Fax: Available on CGP website
- ✓Mail: Public Services and Procurement Canada, Controlled Goods Program
Frequently Asked Questions
QWhat is the Controlled Goods Program (CGP)?
The Controlled Goods Program (CGP) is administered by Public Services and Procurement Canada under the Defence Production Act. It regulates individuals and organizations that examine, possess, or transfer controlled goods – military items and technology listed in the Defence Production Act. Anyone working with controlled goods must register with the CGP and undergo mandatory security assessments including fingerprint-based criminal record checks.
QWho needs fingerprinting for the Controlled Goods Program?
Designated Officials must submit fingerprint-based criminal record checks (mandatory). Authorized Individuals and Company Owners with 20% or more voting shares must submit either fingerprint-based or name-based criminal record checks (fingerprint-based recommended). Employees, officers, and directors assessed by the Designated Official should use fingerprint-based checks (strongly recommended by CGP).
QWhat form is required for CGP fingerprinting?
You need the Security Assessment Application form (PWGSC-TPSGC 465-2e) available from the Controlled Goods Program website. This form must be completed and submitted along with your fingerprint-based criminal record check results, two pieces of government-issued ID, proof of citizenship, and proof of residence.
QHow much does fingerprinting cost for the Controlled Goods Program?
At Surrey Fingerprint Company, fingerprint-based criminal record checks for CGP cost $50. This includes digital fingerprinting, electronic submission to RCMP, and expert guidance through the process. The RCMP processes the criminal record check and results are typically available within 3-5 business days if no record is found.
QHow long does CGP fingerprinting take to process?
RCMP fingerprint processing typically takes 3-5 business days if no criminal record is found. If a record exists, processing can take up to 120 days. The overall CGP security assessment process takes 32 business days (standard), though current processing times may be longer due to application volume. Plan ahead and submit applications well before you need access to controlled goods.
Why Choose Surrey Fingerprint Company for CGP Fingerprinting?
Surrey Fingerprint Company is British Columbia’s trusted RCMP-accredited provider for Controlled Goods Program fingerprinting services. We understand CGP requirements and make the process fast, accurate, and hassle-free.
🏆 RCMP Accredited
Fully certified and accredited by RCMP for electronic fingerprint submission
⚡ Same-Day Appointments
No long waits – book your appointment today and complete fingerprinting in 15-20 minutes
💰 Competitive $50 Pricing
Best rates in BC for CGP fingerprinting with no hidden fees
📋 Expert CGP Knowledge
We understand Controlled Goods Program requirements and compliance
🖥️ Digital Technology
Advanced electronic fingerprinting equipment for high-quality captures
📍 Convenient Location
Easy access in Surrey with free parking, serving all of BC
Book Your CGP Fingerprinting Appointment Today
Need fingerprinting for the Controlled Goods Program? Surrey Fingerprint Company provides fast, professional, RCMP-accredited fingerprinting services for designated officials, authorized individuals, owners, and employees working with controlled goods.
With same-day appointments, competitive $50 pricing, expert knowledge of CGP requirements, and advanced electronic fingerprinting technology, we make compliance quick and hassle-free.
Book your appointment today and complete your security assessment requirements efficiently.
📍 Visit Surrey Fingerprint Company
Address: 112-8232 120 Street, Surrey, BC V3W 3N4
Phone: (604) 825-8882
Email: info@surreyfingerprint.com
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Sunday: Closed
Serving: Surrey, Delta, White Rock, Langley, Richmond, Burnaby, and all of British Columbia
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