Guidance

Basic DBS checks:check: guidance for applicants

Guidance for applicants on basic DBS checkschecks, including the cost, how to apply,share and view the costresult, and what information is disclosed on a basic DBS certificate.

AContents

  • Before you apply
  • How to view and share your basic DBS check result
  • Information disclosed on a basic DBS certificate
  • How to withdraw or dispute a basic DBS check

Is a basic DBS check for me?

A basic DBS check is a criminal record check that you can request for yourself. You may also be asked to request a basic check by your employer.

Is a basic DBS check for me?

A basic DBS check can be used for any position or purpose, however for certain roles, you may need a higher level of criminal record check.

Find out if you need a basic DBS check or ask your employer if you’re not sure.

How do I apply for a basic DBS check?

You can apply directly to DBS for a basic check using our online application route.

There are other ways to apply.

How much is a basic DBS check and how do I pay?

All basic checks, including volunteer applications, are £18. Payment can be made with a debit or credit card. Google Pay or Apple Pay can also be used.

Who is paying for your DBS check?

If you are paying for your own basic check, payment can be made during the application process.

If someone else, for example an employer is paying for your basic check, you will be given the option to pay later.

Payment must be completed within 10 days of your application. You will receive a payment link via email, which can then be forwarded to someone else to complete payment. For example, you may want an employer or relative to do this. You can also use this option to pay later.

Your application will not be processed until payment is made.

How long will my basic DBS check take?

Most basic checks will be processed within 14 days.

WhatHow informationcan isI disclosedview onthe aresult of my basic DBS certificate?check?

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How do I withdraw my basic DBS check application?

You can askcontact toDBS withdrawvia yourtelephone applicationto onlineask if you are logged in to withdraw your DBS online account. Alternatively, if you do not have a DBS online account, you can contact us on 03000 200 190.application.

DBS is unable to withdraw a basic DBS check once the certificate is ready for issue.

Can I dispute the information on my basic DBS certificate?

You can raise a dispute about the content of your basic certificate if any of the following apply:

  • personal information is incorrect, such as a name or place of birth
  • incorrect information regarding conviction details
  • the conviction details do not belong to you

To raise a dispute, useget yourin DBStouch onlinewith account.

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Thethe Updatecontact Servicedetails is not available for basic DBS checks.below.

OtherIf waysyou need to applycontact DBS

YouDBS canhelpline: also03000 apply200 for190

Minicom: your03000 basic200 DBS192

Welsh: check03000 through200 a191

International: Responsible+ Organisation44 (0)151 these676 are9390

Monday organisationsto registeredFriday, with9am DBS to submit5pm basic(except checkspublic on your behalf.holidays)

YourFind employerout canabout alsocall request a basic DBS check on your behalf, if they have your consent, via a Responsible Organisation.charges

Updates to this page

Published 4 July 2019
Last updated 61 AprilOctober 20222024 + show all updates
  1. Information updated for clarity.

  2. Fee updated from £23 to £18.

  3. Payment information updated to reflect that someone else is now able to pay for an individual's basic check.

  4. Fee information updated.

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