Enhanced DBS check helps protect people in the United Kingdom, especially when hiring for jobs with children or vulnerable adults. The move from paper forms to Enhanced DBS check online has improved how organizations and individuals complete background screening. The online system works faster and more securely, though many applicants still have questions about what they need to do, how much it costs, and how to complete the process. Knowing how the screening process works helps applications go through quickly and avoid delays.
What Is Enhanced DBS
An Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is the highest level of criminal background screening available in the UK, made for roles involving work with children or vulnerable adults.
This check shows all spent and unspent convictions, cautions, warnings, and reprimands recorded in police databases, plus any additional information held by local police forces that could be relevant to the role.
Only employers or organizations can request Enhanced DBS checks, as individuals cannot apply for them directly.
The check searches against the children’s and adults’ barred lists when applicable for regulated activities. These activities include teaching, healthcare, personal care, or supervision of vulnerable groups in settings such as schools, care homes, and hospitals.
The processing time for Enhanced DBS checks varies, with 62% completed within 24 hours and 85% within five days.
The cost starts from £46, though prices may vary depending on the requesting organization.
Employers typically handle the application process and often cover the fees, though this should be confirmed during the hiring process.
Online Application Requirements
To start the online DBS check application process, organizations must first register on an approved platform by providing company details, including the organization’s name, contact information, sector classification, and telephone number.
The Enhanced DBS Check Online initial registration takes about 15 minutes to complete and is free.
Organizations must verify their eligibility to request DBS checks and provide consent for requesting these checks during registration. Terms and conditions acknowledgment must be completed.
After registration, organizations can submit Enhanced DBS applications for their employees or volunteers.
Documentation needed for online applications includes valid identification documents such as passports or driving licenses, national insurance numbers, and two address verification documents.
British and Irish passport holders can use an online ID verification option, though an ID verifier remains necessary for final hiring decisions.
Applications must go through a secure IDSP-accredited platform, where organizations can monitor application progress and receive results, typically within 24-48 hours after submission.
Processing Times and Costs
The processing time for Enhanced DBS Check Online can vary, with 62% of applications completed within 24 hours and 85% within 5 days. Processing times may take longer if the application has errors, needs additional police checks, or includes common names requiring further verification.
The cost structure for Enhanced DBS checks starts from £46 as of October 2019, though prices can differ based on the service provider and number of checks needed. Organizations that submit multiple applications may receive bulk pricing options.
The total cost includes the official DBS fee of £49.50, an administrative fee of £26.50, and VAT of £5.30, making the standard total £81.30.
Though employers often pay for DBS checks, they are not legally required to do so. Some organizations ask employees to pay for their own checks, so applicants should confirm payment responsibilities during the recruitment process.
Organizations that process many checks can access discounted rates, which can lower the cost per check.
Document Verification Process
An Enhanced DBS Check Online requires proper verification of identity documents through an approved identity verification process.
Applicants must provide a combination of valid identity documents that meet specific requirements set by the DBS checking service. These include primary identity documents such as a current passport or driving license, alongside documents confirming the applicant’s current address.
Organizations must verify these documents either through in-person checks or via an Identity Service Provider (IDSP) using digital verification methods. For British and Irish passport holders, an online ID verification option is available, though an ID verifier is still required for final hiring decisions.
The verification process checks the authenticity, validity, and photographic likeness of documents against the applicant.
Required documentation includes three forms of ID: one primary document (passport/driving license), two address documents (utility bills/bank statements dated within three months), and proof of any name changes if applicable.
All documents must be original, current, and contain the applicant’s full legal name. Organizations must maintain accurate records of all verified documents for compliance purposes.
Eligibility For Enhanced Checks
Eligibility for Enhanced DBS checks follows specific role-based criteria and legal requirements under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Organizations must verify that applicants meet the required criteria before requesting an Enhanced DBS check, as obtaining these checks for ineligible positions violates the law.
Roles qualifying for these checks involve working with vulnerable groups, including children and vulnerable adults, particularly in regulated activities. This includes positions in healthcare, education, social care, and childcare settings where individuals have regular, unsupervised contact. Examples include teachers, healthcare professionals, social workers, and care home staff.
For Enhanced DBS checks with barred list checks, the role must involve regulated activity, such as providing personal care, overnight responsibility, or teaching and training vulnerable individuals. Supervised volunteer work generally does not qualify for Enhanced checks, though exceptions exist based on specific circumstances.
Employers must determine the appropriate level of check required and justify their decision if questioned. They must also follow data protection regulations when handling sensitive information obtained through these checks.
Barred List Information
Barred list information forms part of Enhanced DBS checks, showing details of individuals barred from working with vulnerable groups, including children and vulnerable adults.
The Disclosure and Barring Service maintains these lists as a safeguarding measure to stop unsuitable individuals from accessing regulated positions.
Two separate barred lists exist: the children’s barred list and the adults’ barred list. Organizations may request checks against either or both lists, based on the role requirements.
Employers must have the legal right to request barred list information, which is only available for positions involving regulated activity.
Individuals appear on these lists through automatic or discretionary barring. Automatic barring follows conviction for specific serious offenses, while discretionary barring occurs after review of evidence indicating risk.
Being on a barred list makes working in regulated activity with the relevant group illegal, and organizations face penalties for knowingly employing barred individuals.
Employer Responsibilities
When conducting DBS checks, employers hold significant legal and ethical duties to implement proper safeguarding measures. They must process DBS checks only for eligible positions and apply the appropriate level of check based on the role’s requirements under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
Employers must obtain written consent from candidates before proceeding with DBS applications and maintain confidentiality of all information received. They should have clear policies regarding the recruitment of individuals with criminal records and make fair, consistent decisions based on assessment of any disclosed information.
Organizations must establish proper record-keeping systems to track DBS certificates and renewal dates, typically implementing a three-year renewal policy. They need to verify original DBS certificates, check the authenticity of documents provided for identification, and maintain accurate records of all checks performed.
Additionally, employers must register with an umbrella body or directly with the DBS service to process enhanced checks and should have designated staff members responsible for handling sensitive disclosure information.
Results and Certificate Access
Once employers complete their DBS check requirements, they can access results and certificates. The DBS certificate system provides secure, controlled access to criminal record information, maintaining confidentiality while allowing authorized parties to view records.
Results appear on the online platform within 24-48 hours for most applications, though some cases take longer if additional police checks are needed. Employers receive alerts when results are ready. Certificates go directly to the applicant’s home address while employers view results digitally through their registered account.
- Employers can only view results through their authorized online account with appropriate credentials
- Applicants receive physical certificates at their registered residential address
- Digital records remain secure for up to 6 months on the platform
- Results can be downloaded and stored according to data protection regulations
The certificate shows criminal records, cautions, warnings, and relevant police information. Organizations must follow data protection laws and maintain strict confidentiality protocols when processing and storing DBS results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Update My Personal Details After Submitting an Enhanced DBS Application?
You cannot change personal details once you have submitted a DBS application. If you need to make changes, contact your employer or the organization that submitted the application right away.
What Happens if I Make a Mistake During the Enhanced DBS Check Online application?
If you make a mistake on your application, contact your employer or organization right away. They can fix errors or let you submit a new application to prevent delays in processing.
Are Enhanced DBS Checks From Other Countries Accepted in the UK?
Foreign background checks are not accepted in the UK as standalone documents. Employers need to get a UK-based Enhanced DBS check for qualified positions, even if international checks exist.
Can I Use My Enhanced DBS Certificate When Working for Multiple Employers?
Enhanced DBS certificates cannot be transferred between employers. Each new employer usually needs a new DBS check, though some might accept recent certificates while waiting for new check results.
How Do I Track the Status of My Enhanced DBS Application?
You can check your DBS application status using your employer’s online portal, by asking your employer for an update, or by using the DBS tracking service with your application reference number.
Conclusion
The DBS check online system helps protect UK workplaces through background screening. The digital platform offers quick and accurate verification of candidates’ backgrounds. The system features fast processing, complete barred list checks, and strong data protection protocols. This service helps employers verify candidates and supports public safety standards.