Basic DBS check UK 2026: how to get one and what it costs

A basic DBS check is an official record of your criminal convictions that employers often ask for. Unlike higher-level checks, you order a basic one on yourself and can show the result to anyone.

What does a basic check show?

A basic certificate shows only unspent convictions and cautions. Spent ones stop appearing over time — for example, some types of caution drop off the certificate after three months. That is what separates a basic check from an enhanced one: the latter is only available for certain roles and shows more.

How do you apply?

You apply online. You will need a GOV.UK One Login account — you can create one if you do not have it. You will be asked for your addresses over the last 5 years with dates, and, if you have them, a passport, driving licence or National Insurance number to prove your identity. You can apply from the age of 16. The service runs every day from 8am to 11:30pm.

What does it cost and how fast is it?

A basic check costs £20. An application is usually processed within three days, after which a paper certificate is posted to you. You can also view the result online. The certificate reflects the position on the date of issue — it never "lasts forever", so employers usually ask for a recent one.

What if the job is in Scotland or Northern Ireland?

The process above is for jobs in England and Wales. You can apply from Scotland or Northern Ireland if the job itself is in England or Wales. For a job in Scotland, checks are issued by Disclosure Scotland; in Northern Ireland, by AccessNI, each with its own website and fees. If an employer needs an enhanced check (for example to work with children), you cannot order it yourself — the employer must make the request.

How does a basic check differ from standard and enhanced?

There are three levels. A basic check shows only unspent convictions, and anyone can request one on themselves. A standard check shows spent and unspent convictions and cautions — for specific roles. An enhanced check adds any relevant police information and, for some roles, checks of the lists of people barred from working with children or vulnerable adults. Standard and enhanced cannot be ordered by you — an employer or a registered body makes the request. For most ordinary jobs, renting a home, or some visa purposes, a basic check is enough. To avoid paying for each new certificate, you can subscribe to the DBS Update Service, which keeps a check current and lets employers re-use it.

You can request a basic check on GOV.UK.