Types of DBS check

There are four types of DBS check for people aged 16 and over (the minimum age a check can be carried out). Different organisations in different countries will use their own laws to decide which checks to complete.

Basic checks just give information about unspent cautions or convictions. There’s no legislation on them so anyone can be asked to complete one.

They can be requested by the person themselves, or by the organisation that employs or works with them, or intends to (as a staff or volunteer). There’s a fee for a basic check, which also applies to volunteers.

Standard checks give information about spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings. These can only be carried out for certain eligible roles.

They can’t be requested by the person themselves; only an employer or a recruiter. There’s a fee for a standard check, but it doesn’t apply to all volunteers.

For more information read the eligibility guidance for standard DBS checks.

These are free for eligible volunteers. An administration fee may apply.

An employer or recruiting organisation usually applies for one. Eligible paid self-employed people and personal employees can also apply for their own enhanced check.

Learn more about eligibility guidance for enhanced DBS checks.

To apply for a DBS check, applicants must show a range of ID documents. The Disclosure and Barring Service has guidance on checking ID for standard and enhanced DBS applications.

The Post Office provide a useful DBS ID verification service that can be used to check documents. For example, on behalf of organisations whose employees or volunteers are remote.

If an applicant can’t show the ID that’s needed, they can still apply for a check by ticking the W59 box on the application form. The Disclosure and Barring Service will contact them and give them information about having their fingerprints taken at their local police station, so their DBS application can still be progressed.

• For activities and roles in England and Wales, DBS checks are done by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
• For activities and roles in Scotland, criminal record checks are done by Disclosure Scotland. The rules are different to those set out here.
• For activities and roles in Northern Ireland, criminal record checks are done by Access NI. The rules are different to those set out here.