Choose the check that matches the purpose
A criminal-record check, credit check, qualification check, reference check, and identity verification answer different questions. Define the decision first, then use an authorised provider and obtain appropriate consent before processing personal information.
Checking your own criminal record
The official way to see your own criminal record is to apply to SAPS for a Police Clearance Certificate, which uses your fingerprints. CheckID and other ID-number tools cannot show criminal records.
Where CheckID fits
Use CheckID before a permitted screening workflow to catch an incorrectly typed or impossible ID number. Do not treat a valid checksum as evidence that the person exists, owns the number, has a clean record, or passed a background check.
For an identity check, as opposed to a background check, CheckID can compare an ID number and name with the population register. Verify an ID number and name against Home Affairs records for R39.90, refunded in full if the name does not match.
A sanctions and politically exposed person screen is a different check from a criminal record check. CheckID offers Sanctions & PEP Screening (R79, once-off).
To see which companies a person is or was a director of, use the CIPC Director Verification (R299, once-off), which checks CIPC records.