What is a DBS Check?

A DBS check (previously known as a CRB check) is an official criminal record review that discloses an individual’s history of convictions, cautions, reprimands, warnings, and – depending on the level – other relevant police information. It is administered by the Disclosure and Barring Service, a Home Office public body formed in 2012 by merging the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA).

The primary goal is to support employers in making safer hiring decisions, particularly for roles involving children, vulnerable adults, or high-trust positions.

Who Needs a DBS Check?

DBS checks are legally required for certain roles defined as regulated activity or positions of trust. This includes:

• Working regularly with children (e.g., teachers, childcare workers, scouts leaders)
• Roles involving vulnerable adults (e.g., healthcare professionals, social workers, care home staff)
• Certain security positions, such as airport roles requiring airside access
• Other regulated professions (e.g., solicitors, accountants in specific roles, security industry personnel)

Employers must confirm eligibility before requesting a check – it is illegal to request higher-level checks for ineligible roles.

Types of DBS Checks

There are three main levels, plus an optional Basic check for overseas equivalents:

• Basic DBS Check Discloses only unspent convictions and conditional cautions. Available to individuals and employers for any role. Commonly used for airport security, general employment, or personal applications.
• Standard DBS Check Includes spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings. Only available for specific eligible positions (e.g., roles in financial services, legal professions, or security guarding).
• Enhanced DBS Check Covers everything in a Standard check plus relevant local police information and (where eligible) checks against the Children’s and/or Adults’ Barred Lists. Reserved exclusively for roles involving frequent or intensive contact with vulnerable groups.

Certain older or minor offences may be filtered and not disclosed if they meet DBS criteria.

How Does the DBS Application Process Work?

The process typically follows these steps:

1. Confirm eligibility – Use the official DBS eligibility tool or consult guidance to determine the correct level.
2. Applicant completes the form – Usually online via a Registered Body (umbrella organisation) or directly for Basic checks.
3. Identity verification – Documents (e.g., passport, driving licence, utility bills) are checked by an authorised verifier.
4. Submission to DBS – The application is sent electronically or by post.
5. Processing – DBS searches national and (for Enhanced) local police records, plus barred lists if required.
6. Certificate issued – Sent to the applicant (and sometimes the employer). Results are valid only on the date of issue.

Timelines:

• Basic: Often within days
• Standard/Enhanced: 5–14 days for clear records; longer if police enquiries are needed

DBS certificates have no official expiry date, but many employers require updates every 1–3 years or use the DBS Update Service for ongoing status checks.

Overseas Criminal Record Checks

If an applicant has lived abroad, additional police certificates from those countries may be required (especially for UK visas or regulated roles). Processes vary by country – guidance is available on GOV.UK with country-specific instructions.

Common Myths and FAQs

Do DBS checks show everything? No – only relevant information as defined by law. Minor or filtered offences are often excluded.

Can I apply for my own Enhanced check? No. Only authorised employers can request Standard or Enhanced checks.

What if something appears on my certificate? Applicants can dispute inaccuracies via the DBS dispute process.

Is a clean DBS a guarantee of suitability? No – it is one part of a broader recruitment process including references and interviews.

How Axiom Screening Can Help

We offer end-to-end support, including:

• Eligibility advice
• Fast-track applications
• ID verification services
• Bulk processing for employers
• Guidance on overseas certificates and Right to Work checks

Contact us for tailored assistance in DBS, BPSS, pre-employment screening, and sector-specific requirements.

For the most up-to-date official information, visit GOV.UK/DBS.