DBS Checks for Individuals

Basic DBS Checks

Looking to do DBS Checks for Employees or Volunteers?

All About DBS Checks for Individuals

Can an individual person get a DBS Check?

An individual CANNOT apply for a Standard or Enhanced DBS check themselves.

Standard and Enhanced checks can only be requested through an Umbrella Registered Body, such as EasyDBS, or through an organisation that is registered with the Disclosure and Barring Service.

However, an individual CAN apply for a Basic DBS check on their own. They can do this direct with DBS without paying any third party admin fees.

What about Sole Traders that need a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check?

If you are a sole trader, such as a self-employed tutor, carer or contractor working directly with children or vulnerable adults, obtaining an Enhanced DBS check is more complex but still possible.

A sole trader cannot apply for an Enhanced DBS check independently, as individuals are not allowed to submit this type of check on their own.

However, there are two main options:

Option 1: Use EasyDBS

Sole traders can apply for an Enhanced DBS check through a government-registered Umbrella Body, such as EasyDBS, provided the role meets the eligibility criteria, for example, if it involves regulated activity.

You will need to clearly explain the nature of your work, such as tutoring children or providing personal care to adults.

We will then assess whether your role is eligible.

Option 2: Request Through a Contracting Organisation

If you work under contract for a school, care provider, local authority or agency, that organisation can request the Enhanced DBS check on your behalf.

How much is a a DBS Check at this level?

A Basic DBS Check costs £21.50.

How long does a DBS Check take for Basic level?

Basic level DBS’s are rapid. You’ll likely have it back within 72 hours.

How do I get a Basic DBS Certificate?

You can apply for a Basic DBS check directly through the Disclosure and Barring Service.

There are no special registration requirements or eligibility criteria.

Click the link below to go straight to the Basic DBS check application page on the DBS website:

Request a basic DBS check – GOV.UK

What does a Basic DBS Check reveal?

A Basic DBS certificate only reveals unspent convictions. It is the simplest form of criminal record check.

It does not include:

Spent convictions, which are considered ‘spent’ under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act
Cautions, warnings or reprimands
Any data from the Police National Database or other police intelligence

Why might Organisations want their People to have a DBS Check at just Basic level?

An organisation may request a Basic DBS certificate for several reasons, especially when they want to confirm an individual’s criminal record but the role does not legally require the more detailed Standard or Enhanced checks. Common reasons include:

Pre-screening for roles without regulated activity: For jobs or volunteer positions where Standard or Enhanced DBS checks are not legally required, but the organisation still wants to see if the candidate has any criminal convictions or cautions.
Positions of trust but not regulated activity: Roles that involve responsibility or trust, such as office jobs, retail or hospitality, where a basic background check helps manage risk even if the role does not involve working with vulnerable groups.
Volunteering roles with low safeguarding risk: Where volunteers do not have direct contact with children or vulnerable adults, but some background assurance is desired.
Rental or tenancy screening: Landlords or housing associations may request a Basic DBS check to identify relevant criminal convictions that could affect housing suitability.
Licensing or membership validation: Organisations issuing licences, certifications or memberships, such as trade bodies or clubs, might require a Basic DBS check as part of their vetting process.
Simpler and quicker check: Basic DBS checks only disclose unspent convictions and cautions, making them quicker and easier to process. This is suitable for organisations that do not require the full detail of Standard or Enhanced checks.

Why might an Individual Person want a DBS Check at just Basic level?

An individual might need a Basic DBS check for various personal or professional reasons, even when no employer or organisation requests it. Common situations include:

Personal record check: To find out what information is held about them on police databases. This helps individuals understand if they have any convictions or cautions that could impact job or volunteering opportunities.
Applying for jobs or volunteering: Some employers, landlords or volunteer groups ask applicants to provide a Basic DBS check themselves during the recruitment or application process.
Self-employment: If you work for yourself in a non-regulated role, such as a domestic cleaner, you might want to reassure clients or customers that you do not have any relevant criminal record.
Immigration or visa applications: Immigration authorities or visa procedures may require proof of criminal record status.
Professional licensing or membership: Certain professional bodies or trade organisations may ask for a Basic DBS check to verify your background before granting membership or licences.
Peace of mind: Simply to confirm a clean record before starting a new career or moving to a place where background checks are common.