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Guidance

Enhanced DBS checks in the other workforce

Published 1 September 2026

© Crown copyright 2026

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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/enhanced-dbs-checks-in-the-other-workforce/enhanced-dbs-checks-in-the-other-workforce

1. Introduction

This guidance helps you determine if the position you’re recruiting for is eligible for an Enhanced or Enhanced with Barred List DBS Check in the ‘other’ workforce.

2. Roles eligible for Enhanced with both barred list checks

  • Taxi drivers - When renewing or applying for a taxi or private hire vehicle licence, the licensing organisation can ask applicants to apply for an Enhanced DBS check with both Children’s and Adults’ Barred List checks. Applications by the licensing authority/organisation must be submitted in the Other workforce.  Taxi drivers are not in regulated activity with either children or adults when they submit this application for licensing purposes.
  • Individuals applying through their local authority to be hosts for Ukrainian refugees that they are related to under the Homes for Ukraine scheme
  • Individuals applying for or renewing a pedicab licence in London
  • Registered healthcare professionals working for or on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions to assess children or vulnerable adults

3. Roles eligible for Enhanced only

The below roles are eligible for an Enhanced DBS certificate, without access to a children’s or adult’s barred list check:

  • Individuals applying for or renewing an operating licence to run premises where gambling can take place
  • Individuals applying for or renewing a personal licence to perform the functions of a specified management office, or a specified operational function, in relation to facilities for gambling
  • Individuals applying to work for the Gambling Commission
  • Individuals applying for or renewing a licence to run the National Lottery or promote or sell tickets in relation to that lottery
  • Individuals required to be registered by the Immigration Services Commissioner to provide immigration advice or services, not in connection with criminal proceedings
  • Individuals applying for or renewing a licence to produce, supply, offer to supply or have in his possession any controlled drug
  • Individuals applying to be a Maritime armed guard on UK ships where they can carry, acquire or transfer weapons and/or ammunition
  • Individuals applying to be employed for the purpose of national security for the following:
    • in service of the Crown;
    • the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority
    • the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA);
    • the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA)
  • Individuals applying for judicial appointments, such as Judges, Magistrates, Coroners or Justices of the Peace
  • Individuals applying to be employed by the Crown.

4. Legislation

For further details please see the relevant legislative wording in the ‘Enhanced DBS checks in the other workforce legislation’ document on this page.

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