Get a criminal record check to continue being a driving instructor

You must get a criminal record check if you’re an approved driving instructor (ADI) and want to renew your registration.

You cannot use one you have already - you must get a new one.

Use a different service to get a criminal record check if you’re applying to:

Applying for your criminal record check

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) will send you an email 6 months before your registration is due to expire. You do not have to do anything.

You will then receive an email from Complete Background Screening (CBS) with a link to apply online for your criminal record check.

If you have not received the link within 2 weeks of the DVSA email, contact CBS.

It costs £5.40 to apply. You can pay with a debit or credit card.

You’ll need to provide documents to prove your identity, for example:

  • your passport
  • your driving licence
  • a utility bill that’s less than 3 months old
  • a bank statement that’s less than 3 months old

What you need to know

If you cannot verify your identity online, the service will tell you how to do this at a Post Office. It costs £12 to verify your identity at a Post Office.

If you need help with your application, contact CBS.

What happens next

Your criminal record check will be sent to you by post.

If your record contains criminal information, DVSA will also contact you.