DBS Checks for Individuals
What is a DBS Check for Individuals?
A DBS check for individuals (previously known as a CRB check) is a background check that reveals any unspent convictions and conditional cautions, as per the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
Anyone living or planning to live and work in England or Wales can apply for a Basic DBS check to verify their criminal record status.
What does ‘spent’ mean?
A conviction becomes ‘spent’ after a set period, meaning it no longer needs to be disclosed in most circumstances. The time frame depends on the severity of the offence and the sentence given.
For example, a conditional caution is considered ‘spent’ after three months.
Why would I need an individual DBS check?
There are several reasons why you might need an Individual DBS Check (formerly known as a CRB check), including:
- Employment – Some employers require a Basic DBS Check as part of their recruitment process.
- Visa applications – Certain countries may request a DBS Check as part of their visa and immigration requirements.
- Personal alcohol licence – If you’re applying for a personal licence to sell alcohol, a Basic DBS Check is required.
- Volunteering – Organisations may ask for a DBS check for voluntary work, especially if it involves working with the public.
- Self-employment – While self-employed individuals can’t request a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check, a Basic DBS Check can serve as proof of good character and background when working with clients.
How do I apply for a DBS check as an individual?
It’s easy to apply for an online Individual Check with our simple online system. Step one is where you provide your personal data. You will need to input your address history for the past 5 years, personal information and payment details.
Step two is getting your ID verified. You will need to show your ID to someone who isn’t a partner or relative of yourself.
For more information and help identifying which ID documents you’ll need, you can check the basic check guidance and policies.
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Can I apply for a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check?
Unfortunately, you can’t request Standard or Enhanced DBS Checks directly as an individual. If you’ve been told you specifically require a Standard or Enhanced Check, please contact your employer.
If you need a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check, this is the information that your employers will see. Standard DBS Checks will show any unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings, as well as any spent convictions or cautions that weren’t removed by filtering.
Enhanced DBS Checks will show the same information as a Standard DBS Check, but will also include any information provided by the police, which they feel may be relevant when making recruitment decisions.
An Enhanced DBS Check with Barred List Check, provides the same information as only an Enhanced Check, but also includes any information on the Adults’ and/or Children’s Barred lists.
Are you an employer looking to request an Enhanced DBS Check? Check out our full range of DBS checks.
Overseas Postage
If you live overseas, choosing this option will ensure that your certificate is sent to you ‘tracked and signed for’.
Those living outside of the UK may benefit from using this service as the DBS cannot guarantee that your certificate will reach you.
This is an additional charge of £15 inc VAT.
Choose uCheck for thorough, streamlined Individual DBS Checks
At uCheck, we specialise in online DBS checks for both individuals and employers. Our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way, making the process smooth and hassle-free. Here’s why people choose uCheck:
✓Fast turnaround times – Almost all checks are completed within 48 hours, ensuring you get your results quickly.
✓Easy-to-use online platform – Our secure, user-friendly system makes it simple to apply for a DBS check, track your progress, and download your results with ease.
✓Stay updated every step of the way – Receive real-time alerts and track your application seamlessly from start to finish.
Make your DBS check process effortless with uCheck. Start your application today!
Individual DBS Checks FAQS
Is a CRB check the same as an Individual DBS Check?
No, a CRB check (Criminal Records Bureau check) is not the same as an Individual DBS Check. The CRB was replaced by the DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) in 2012. While both checks look into criminal records, the DBS system includes additional features like barring lists and a service to keep employers updated. An Individual DBS Check refers to a Basic DBS check that can be requested by the individual themselves.
Do individual CRB checks still exist alongside Individual DBS Checks?
No, individual CRB checks no longer exist. Since the formation of the DBS in 2012, the CRB check was discontinued and replaced by the DBS check system, which offers more comprehensive checks.
Is a CRB certification still valid?
No, CRB certifications are no longer valid. Since the DBS replaced the CRB in 2012, only DBS checks have been used for criminal record checks, including for employment and other purposes. If you have a CRB check from before 2012, it would no longer be in use, and you’d need to apply for a DBS check.
Is an Individual DBS Check the same as an employer-requested DBS check?
No, an Individual DBS Check is not the same as an employer-requested DBS check. An Individual DBS Check (such as a Basic DBS Check) can be requested by the person themselves for personal or professional use. However, an employer-requested DBS check can be a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check, which must be requested by an employer or organisations, often as part of the recruitment process for certain roles.
