What are DBS checks?
DBS stands for Disclosure and Barring Service – the government body responsible for processing criminal record checks in England and Wales. These checks help employers make safer recruitment decisions when hiring people for roles that involve contact with children or vulnerable adults.
But here's what confuses many employers: not all DBS checks are created equal. There are three distinct DBS check levels, each revealing different information and appropriate for different roles. Getting this wrong can mean either exposing your organisation to risk or wasting money on checks you don't need.
The three DBS check levels explained
Understanding the differences between basic, standard and enhanced DBS checks is essential for compliant recruitment. Each level serves a specific purpose and is appropriate for different types of roles.
Basic DBS check
A basic DBS check is the lowest level and shows only unspent convictions under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. This means older convictions that have become "spent" after a specified rehabilitation period won't appear.
Who can apply: Anyone. Unlike higher levels, basic checks don't require the role to be eligible – any employer can request one for any position.
What it shows:
- Unspent convictions held on the Police National Computer
- Unspent conditional cautions
Processing time: Typically 2 to 14 days
Cost: £18 (as of 2026)
Suitable for roles such as:
- Office administrators
- Warehouse operatives
- Retail staff
- Accountants
- IT support
Standard DBS check
A standard DBS check goes further, revealing both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and final warnings held on the Police National Computer. However, the role must be specifically listed in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order.
Who can apply: Only employers recruiting for eligible roles listed in the Exceptions Order.
What it shows:
- All convictions (spent and unspent)
- All cautions, reprimands and warnings
- Information held on the Police National Computer
Processing time: Typically 2 to 8 weeks
Cost: £18 (as of 2026)
The reality is that standard DBS checks are less common than basic or enhanced checks. Most roles either don't require any eligibility (basic) or involve regulated activity (enhanced).
Enhanced DBS check
An enhanced DBS check provides the most thorough examination. In addition to everything on a standard check, it includes any relevant information held by local police forces that they consider relevant to the role.
Who can apply: Employers recruiting for roles involving close work with children or vulnerable adults, as defined by the Police Act 1997 and related regulations.
What it shows:
- Everything on a standard check
- Any additional information from local police records deemed relevant
- Approved information (disclosed to employer)
Processing time: Typically 2 to 8 weeks, sometimes longer if local police checks are required
Cost: £38 (as of 2026)
Enhanced DBS with barred list checks
There's an additional layer beyond standard enhanced checks: barred list checks. These reveal whether someone appears on the children's barred list, adults' barred list, or both.
A person on a barred list is legally prohibited from working in regulated activity with that group. Knowingly employing a barred person in regulated activity is a criminal offence.
Discover how it works: MyDBSCheck tracks which staff need barred list checks and monitors DBS Update Service status automatically.
Determining the right DBS check level for each role
The question isn't "what level would I like?" but "what level is this role eligible for?" You cannot request a higher level check simply because you'd prefer more information.
Step 1: Does the role involve regulated activity?
Regulated activity is defined in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 (as amended). For children, it typically means unsupervised activities, working in specified settings, healthcare provided by health professionals, or personal care assistance.
If the role involves regulated activity: Enhanced DBS with barred list check required
Step 2: Does the role involve work with children or vulnerable adults but not regulated activity?
Some roles have contact with children or vulnerable adults but don't meet the definition of regulated activity.
If yes: Enhanced DBS check (without barred list)
Step 3: Is the role listed in the Exceptions Order?
Certain professions are listed in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act Exceptions Order, making them eligible for standard checks.
If yes: Standard DBS check
Step 4: None of the above apply
Most roles don't require DBS checks at all. Where employers want some assurance, a basic check is always available.
If none apply: Basic DBS check or no check
Common mistakes employers make with DBS check levels
Requesting the wrong level
Umbrella bodies and countersignatories will reject applications for inappropriate check levels. This wastes time and delays onboarding. Understand eligibility before applying.
Assuming DBS checks alone ensure safety
A clear DBS check means no relevant criminal record was found – it doesn't mean someone is suitable for the role. DBS checks are one part of safer recruitment, alongside references, interviews, and ongoing supervision.
Forgetting that checks become outdated
A DBS certificate is a snapshot of the day it was issued. Someone could receive a conviction the day after their check and you wouldn't know. That's why the DBS Update Service exists – to provide ongoing monitoring.
Related reading: DBS Update Service: benefits for employers and employees
The DBS Update Service
The Update Service allows DBS certificate holders to keep their certificate current. Employers can then check online whether any new information has been added since the certificate was issued.
Key benefits:
- Instant online checks at no cost to employers
- No need for new applications when changing jobs
- Continuous monitoring rather than point in time checks
- Annual subscription of £13 for applicants
Take control: MyDBSCheck monitors Update Service registrations and alerts you before annual subscriptions lapse.
FAQs: DBS check levels
How long is a DBS check valid for?
Technically, a DBS certificate has no expiry date. However, it only reflects information at the time of issue. Most employers recheck staff every three years.
Can I see someone's DBS certificate without their consent?
No. The certificate belongs to the applicant. Employers should ask applicants to show their original certificate.
What if someone refuses a DBS check?
If the role genuinely requires a DBS check, you can decline to employ someone who refuses. However, you cannot require checks for roles that aren't eligible.
Do volunteers need DBS checks?
It depends on what they do. Volunteers in regulated activity with children or vulnerable adults should have enhanced checks with barred list checks.
Getting DBS compliance right
Understanding DBS check levels isn't just about compliance – it's about making informed recruitment decisions that protect your service users while respecting applicants' rights.
Ready to simplify DBS management? Join the Founding Partner waitlist to see how Compliance Cover automates DBS tracking and Update Service monitoring.