Collection
DBS check detailed guidance
A collection of guidance about DBS checks and processes.
Applicants (job candidates) can’t do a criminal records check on themselves.
You will need to get an application form from the employer who asked you for a DBS check.
You can find out more about the DBS check process in our quick guide.
If you’re looking for detailed information about the DBS update service go to the guidance collection.
There are also collections of guidance about DBS check eligibility and filtering of offences from DBS checks.
Continuation sheet
Use this if you can’t fit all of your information on the DBS check application form.
ID checking guidelines
Guidance for ID checking a DBS check applicant and countersignatory applicants.
-
DBS ID checking guidelines
- Guidance
Detailed guides for applicants
-
Basic checks
- Guidance
-
Basic check guidance and policies
- Guidance
-
DBS certificate reprint guide and forms
- Guidance
-
DBS application form: guide for applicants
- Guidance
-
DBS privacy policy
- Policy paper
-
DBS disclosure representations process
- Guidance
-
DBS certificate disputes and fingerprint consent forms
- Form
-
DBS unusual addresses guidance
- Guidance
-
Applicant's introduction to the decision-making process for enhanced criminal record checks
- Guidance
Detailed guides for employers
The DBS can’t access criminal records held overseas. A DBS check may not provide a complete view of an applicant’s criminal record if they have lived outside the UK.
Employers should make sure they have access to all the information available to them to make a safer recruitment decision. You can read about how to get a criminal record check for overseas applicants, or those who have previously lived outside the UK, on the Home Office website.
Registered employers can order blank application forms through the multiple online tracking tool, or by calling us.
-
Responsible Organisations
- Guidance
-
Basic check guidance and policies
- Guidance
-
DBS checks: guidance for employers
- Guidance
-
DBS code of practice
- Policy paper
-
DBS home based positions guide
- Guidance
-
Statutory disclosure guidance
- Guidance
-
DBS application form: countersignatories guide
- Guidance
-
E-bulk: submitting multiple applications for DBS checking
- Guidance
-
DBS privacy policy
- Policy paper
-
DBS unusual addresses guidance
- Guidance
-
DBS sample policy on the recruitment of ex-offenders
- Policy paper
-
Guidelines for the lead countersignatory application form
- Guidance
-
Guidelines for the countersignatory application form
- Guidance
-
Handling of DBS certificate information
- Guidance
Promotional booklets
-
DBS check: application process for volunteers booklet
- Promotional material
-
DBS checks: case studies booklet
- Promotional material
Last updated 11 November 2013 + show all updates
- Added the new e-guide for completing the DBS application form.
- First published.