UK DBS Check: Application Types and Online Verification Guide

A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is a background check conducted on individuals to reveal any criminal records, warnings, or reprimands they may have. DBS checks are required for certain types of employment, particularly roles involving children, vulnerable adults, healthcare, and law enforcement.

The DBS was formed in 2012 by merging the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA). DBS checks help employers make safer recruitment decisions by providing information about an applicant's criminal history.

Types of DBS Checks

Basic DBS Check

A Basic DBS check shows only unspent convictions or conditional cautions as defined under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

| Feature | Basic DBS |

|---|---|

| Who can apply | Any individual aged 16+ |

| Information shown | Unspent convictions and cautions only |

| Processing time | 1 working day |

| Cost | £18 |

| Employer required | No |

| Use case | General employment, voluntary work |

Standard DBS Check

A Standard DBS check shows both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings.

| Feature | Standard DBS |

|---|---|

| Who can apply | Individuals in eligible roles |

| Information shown | Spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands |

| Processing time | 5-10 working days |

| Cost | £18 |

| Employer required | Yes (must be eligible) |

| Use case | Healthcare, legal, financial services |

Enhanced DBS Check

An Enhanced DBS check shows the same information as Standard, plus any additional information held by local police forces that may be relevant to the role.

| Feature | Enhanced DBS |

|---|---|

| Who can apply | Individuals in eligible roles involving children/vulnerable adults |

| Information shown | Standard info + police intelligence |

| Processing time | 2-8 weeks |

| Cost | £65 |

| Employer required | Yes (must be eligible) |

| Use case | Teaching, childcare, healthcare, social work |

Application Process

1. Find an approved DBS body (your employer typically arranges this)

2. Provide identity documents (passport, driving licence, utility bill, etc.)

3. Complete the online application form

4. Visit a Post Office for identity verification (if required)

5. DBS processes the check and issues the certificate

6. Certificate is sent to your home address

Filtering Rules

Over time, certain cautions and convictions become "filtered" and are not shown on DBS certificates. The filtering rules are complex and depend on the type of offense, the age at which it was committed, and how long ago it occurred. The DBS Filtering Guide provides detailed information about what gets filtered.