Guidance

DBS application form: guide for applicants

Step by step guidance for applicants filling in the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) application form.

• From: Disclosure and Barring Service
• Published: 20 November 2012
• Last updated: 23 January 2026
  Show all updates

  1. 23 January 2026

     Welsh translation has also been updated with information about the new self employed guidance that came into effect on 21 January 2026

  2. 16 January 2026

     DBS application form: guide for applicants has been updated with information about the new self employed guidance that came into effect on 21 January 2026

  3. 21 September 2018

     Email addresses updated in line with recent changes.

  4. 17 February 2015

     Added a link to more information about the DBS check process.

  5. 16 December 2014

     Added a link to the page to explain the DBS definition of a volunteer.

  6. 22 April 2014

     Added a link to the unusual addresses guidance.

  7. 16 October 2013

     Added a Welsh version of the guide.

  8. 16 July 2013

     New version added

  9. 29 May 2013

     Updated document.

  10. 20 May 2013

      Correct guidance added.

  11. 20 November 2012

      First published.

Documents

DBS application form: guide for applicants

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Cyfarwyddyd i'r ymgeisydd ar gwblhau'r ffurflen gais DBS

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Details

You will need to get an application form from the employer who asked you for a DBS check. Find out more about the DBS check process.

If you are self-employed or a personal employee, you can obtain an application form from the Umbrella Body processing your check.

You can read our guidelines on what to do if you have an unusual address and what the DBS definition of a volunteer is.

You will need to provide ID documents to the person who asked you to apply for a DBS check.