A DBS certificate is a document that provides your potential employer with a record of your criminal history in the UK. This is provided by the DBS ( Disclosure and Barring Service).
The certificate is provided when there has been a DBS check on the PNC ( Police National Computer). This is completed by the DBS, and the certificate is then sent to you by post.
Get in touch with MSC Notaries for notarisation or legalisation services.
What is the Difference between a DBS certificate and a DBS check?
A DBS check is the actual check which takes place when you apply for a DBS certificate. The DBS check will research your UK criminal history on the PNC.
The DBS certificate is issued to you and serves as an official record of your UK criminal history, which can be presented to employers as proof of the check.
Both DBS checks and DBS certificates are specific to the UK and are mainly used for employment and legal purposes within the country. They may not be accepted as official proof of criminal history overseas.
How long does a DBS certificate last?
A DBS certificate does not have an official expiry date. It shows information that was accurate at the time it was issued. However, many employers require a new DBS check every 12 months, depending on the role and organisational policy. What will be shown on my DBS certificate?
What is shown on your DBS certificate will depend on the type of DBS certificate you require. This will depend on what type of employment you are seeking and what your employer asks for. There are four types of DBS certificates in the UK, which are:
Basic DBS Certificate
The kind of DBS check will detail your personal criminal history and will be able to detect any unspent convictions or conditional cautions held on the PNC (Police National Computer).
Standard DBS Certificate
This kind of DBS check will detail your criminal history, revealing any cautions, warnings and reprimands held on the PNC. Additionally, this level of DBS check will show any unspent criminal convictions.
Enhanced DBS Certificate
This is a more extensive level of DBS check, which will show your full criminal history. It will reveal cautions, warnings and reprimands held on the PNC. However, unlike the other checks, the enhanced level of checks will provide any non-conviction information which the police may deem relevant to the job role.
Enhanced DBS Certificate with Barred Lists
This level of check provides the same information as the enhanced DBS certificate. But will also check the barred lists to see if you are prohibited from working with a specific group. The two barred lists to be checked are :
- DBS Children’s Barred Lists
- DBS Adults Barred Lists
If you already have a DBS certificate and require notarisation or legalisation, please contact MSC notaries.
When should I apply for a DBS certificate?
The main reason people apply for a DBS certificate is when they are applying for a job where the employer needs to make safer hiring decisions. This is usually due to the nature of the job. In most cases, a DBS certificate is required when a potential employee could be working with children or vulnerable adults. There are other instances where this may be required, such as when a significant amount of trust is expected from the employee. For instance, a DBS certificate may be required for roles where they may be dealing with sensitive information.
How do I apply for a DBS certificate?
To apply for a DBS certificate, you will need to apply directly to the Disclosure and Barring Service. This is a government website where you can apply for the relevant DBS certificate. You will then receive an email confirmation of the application when it has been completed.
How much does it cost to apply for a DBS certificate?
The cost of the DBS certificate will typically depend on the level of check you are requesting. In most cases, you will be expected to pay for the DBS certificate.
For the most up-to-date fees, it is recommended to check the UK official DBS website.
For more information regarding the costs of a DBS certificate, please contact us today.
What Information is required for a DBS certificate?
When applying for a DBS certificate, the check must be completed efficiently and effectively. To ensure this, the DBS must be able to verify your identity. Therefore, you will need to provide them with;
- National Insurance Number.
- All previous addresses within the past five years.
- You must inform the DBS of any previous names, including maiden names.
- Proof of identification in the form of a passport, driving license or birth certificate.
- Proof of address document, such as a utility bill or bank statement.
Get in touch with MSC Notaries today to ensure your documents are legally recognised.
How long does it take to receive a DBS certificate?
Once your DBS application has been submitted, the time it takes to receive your certificate depends on the level of check you have requested.
- Basic DBS check: Usually arrives within 1–14 days.
- Standard DBS check: Typically takes 2–5 weeks.
- Enhanced and Enhanced with Barred Lists: Generally takes 2–8 weeks, depending on police records and any additional checks required.
Processing can take longer if any information is missing or needs further verification, so it is important to ensure all the details you provide are accurate.
If you already have a DBS certificate, MSC Notaries can assist with notarisation or legalisation. Please contact us today.
Frequently Asked Questions About DBS Certificates UK?
Do I need a DBS certificate for every job?
No, a DBS certificate is only required for certain roles. It is commonly needed for jobs involving children, vulnerable adults, or positions of trust, but not all roles require a DBS check.
Can I use an old DBS certificate?
A DBS certificate does not have an official expiry date, but many employers require a new check if the certificate is more than 12 months old. This depends on the employer’s policy and the role.
What Details Will a DBS certificate show?
What details are shown depends on the level of DBS check. Basic checks show unspent convictions, while Standard and Enhanced checks may show spent convictions, cautions, and other relevant information.
Who receives the DBS certificate?
The DBS certificate is sent directly to the applicant. You can then choose whether to share it with your employer.
Can I apply for a DBS certificate myself?
You can apply directly for a Basic DBS check. Standard and Enhanced checks must usually be applied for through an employer or an authorised organisation.
What happens if I make any errors on my application?
Errors or missing information can delay the process. It is important to ensure all details are accurate before submitting your application.
Is a DBS certificate valid outside the UK?
DBS certificates are UK-specific and are mainly used for employment and legal purposes within the UK. They may not be accepted as official proof of criminal history overseas.
Can MSC Notaries help with DBS-related documents?
Yes, MSC Notaries can assist with notarisation and legalisation of DBS certificates and related documents that have already been issued.
