Check someone's criminal record as an employer
Get a basic DBS check for an employee
You can request a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check on behalf of an employee.
There’s a different process to request your own basic DBS check.
How to do a check
You’ll need to choose a company from the list of ‘responsible organisations’ registered with DBS to process checks. They will carry out the check and tell you the outcome once it’s complete.
The applicant will receive their certificate by post. They can also set up a DBS online account to view the certificate online.
How much it costs
A basic check costs £18. The responsible organisation may also charge an administration fee.
If you do more than 1,000 basic checks each year, you can become a responsible organisation. Contact DBS to find out what’s involved.
DBS customer services
customerservices@dbs.gov.uk
Telephone: 0300 0200 190
Welsh: 0300 0200 191
Minicom: 0300 0200 192
International: +44 151 676 9390
Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (except public holidays)
Find out about call charges
Get help through DBS webchat
DBS customer services
PO Box 3961
Royal Wootton Bassett
SN4 4HF
How long it takes
A basic check takes up to 14 days.
If you’re registered with DBS you can use the tracking service to track multiple applications.