For jobs: FREE for job applicants

For individuals

Basic DBS Check

FREE for job applicants to start. The standard criminal record check for individuals in England and Wales — unspent convictions and conditional cautions, certificate posted to your address.

Who is a Basic DBS check for?

A Basic DBS check is the only level of criminal record check that any individual can request for themselves. You do not need an employer to apply, and you can use the certificate for any purpose.

It is commonly requested for:

  • Delivery, courier and taxi driver roles
  • Warehouse, retail and hospitality jobs
  • Security industry licence applications
  • Office and administrative positions
  • Visa applications and personal records

What does it show?

The certificate lists unspent convictions and conditional cautions held on the Police National Computer. Convictions and cautions that are spent under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 will not appear. If you have no unspent records, the certificate will state that clearly.

Need a deeper check?

Roles working with children or vulnerable adults usually need an Enhanced DBS check, requested through an employer or registered body.

What you will need to apply

Personal details

Full legal name, date of birth and any previous names.

5-year address history

Every address you have lived at in the last 5 years.

Identity documents

Passport, driving licence or National Insurance number.

A few minutes

The guided form takes most people under 10 minutes.

FREE for job applicants

Ready to apply for your Basic DBS check?

Start online now. The certificate has the official DBS fee — shown clearly before you pay.

Apply