How Long Does a DBS Check Take in 2026? Realistic Timeframes & How to Speed It Up
If you’re wondering “how long does a DBS check take?” or “why is my DBS taking so long?” — you’re not alone.
Delays can be stressful, especially when a job offer depends on your certificate arriving. In this guide, we break down realistic 2026 DBS processing times, the most common causes of delays, and practical steps you can take right now to speed things up.
For official government guidance on DBS checks.
Typical DBS Processing Times in 2026
Processing times vary depending on the level of check and whether police forces need to review local records.
1. Basic DBS Check
Average time: 3–7 working days*
Issued directly by: Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
Police involvement: None
Basic checks only show unspent convictions and do not require local police review, which is why they are typically processed faster.
Apply for a Basic DBS: https://www.gov.uk/request-copy-criminal-record
Read our guide on disclosure levels:
Understanding Disclosure Levels: Basic vs Enhanced DBS Checks
The average time is not a guaranteed timeframe for DBS Checks to be issued, as processing depends on what information the DBS may need to review. It is therefore possible that the certificate could be issued sooner or take longer than the average timeframe.
2. Standard DBS Check
Average time: 5–10 working days*
Police involvement: Central records check only
Standard checks include spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings held on the Police National Computer.
The average time is not a guaranteed timeframe for DBS Checks to be issued, as processing depends on what information the DBS may need to review. It is therefore possible that the certificate could be issued sooner or take longer than the average timeframe.
3. Enhanced DBS Check
Average time: 10–20 working days*
Can take longer: 4+ weeks in some cases
Police involvement: Yes (local police force review)
Enhanced checks may include:
- Criminal record information
- Barred list checks
- Relevant local police intelligence
Because local police forces must review records, enhanced checks are more likely to experience delays.
If turnaround time is critical, read:
Fast DBS Check Turnaround Time in the UK: Why It Matters and How to Get Results Quickly
The average time is not a guaranteed timeframe for DBS Checks to be issued, as processing depends on what information the DBS and/or relevant Police forces may need to review. It is therefore possible that the certificate could be issued sooner or take longer than the average timeframe.
Why Is My DBS Check Taking So Long?
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Application Details
- Missing middle names
- Address history gaps (you must provide 5 years)
- Typographical errors
- Incorrect ID documentation
Even small mistakes can pause processing.
2. Police Force Backlogs
Enhanced checks are sent to the relevant local police force(s) linked to your address history. If you’ve lived in multiple areas, each force must complete checks, increasing processing time.
Backlogs are common during:
- Late summer (education hiring peak)
- January recruitment cycles
3. Name Changes or Aliases
If you’ve changed your name (e.g., marriage or deed poll), additional verification checks may be required.
4. Common Names
If your name matches others on police systems, extra review steps may be needed to confirm identity.
5. Manual Review of Police Information
For enhanced checks, officers must assess whether any local intelligence is relevant and proportionate to disclose. This stage can significantly extend timelines.
How to Check Your DBS Application Status
There are two separate tracking systems, depending on the type of check you applied for.
Basic DBS Check Tracking
Track your Basic DBS here: https://www.gov.uk/request-copy-criminal-record
Standard and Enhanced DBS Check Tracking
Track Standard and Enhanced applications here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/track-a-dbs-application
Applications typically move through these stages:
- Application received
- ID verification completed
- Police National Computer search
- Local police checks (enhanced only)
- Certificate printed and dispatched
If your check has been at the local police stage for over 14 days, it may be experiencing a delay.
How to Speed Up a DBS Check (What You Can Do Right Now)
Double-check your application before submission
- Ensure full 5-year address history
- Include all middle names
- Verify correct ID documents
Respond quickly to any queries
If your employer or provider contacts you for clarification, respond immediately to prevent your application being placed on hold.
Provide accurate previous address details
If police need clarification linked to a former address, providing accurate postcode and occupancy dates can help.
Use digital identity verification
Online ID verification reduces manual checking delays and speeds up initial validation.
Escalate after 60 days
If your enhanced DBS check has exceeded 60 days, your employer or registered body can raise an official escalation request through DBS.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Most DBS checks complete within 1–3 weeks. You should consider escalation if:
- A Basic or Standard check exceeds 15 working days
- An Enhanced check exceeds 40–60 days
- The application appears “stuck” at the police stage
Do DBS Checks Expire?
Technically, DBS certificates do not have an official expiry date. However, employers may require:
- Renewal every 1–3 years
- Subscription to the DBS Update Service
- A new check if there’s a role change
More on DBS renewal: https://criminalrecordchecks.co.uk/blog/
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start work before my DBS is complete?
This depends on employer risk assessment and safeguarding policy. Many regulated roles require clearance before starting work.
Official safeguarding guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service
Can I pay extra to fast-track a DBS check?
No official fast-track service exists through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Processing speed depends on application accuracy and police force capacity.
Be cautious of providers advertising guaranteed fast-track services — no organisation can bypass official DBS or police review stages.
Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead to Avoid Delays
If your role depends on DBS clearance, apply as early as possible and ensure your application is accurate the first time.
While most checks complete quickly, enhanced checks involving police review can take longer — particularly during peak hiring seasons.
Understanding the process and responding promptly to any queries can significantly reduce your waiting time.
Need a DBS Check? We Can Help
If you’re applying for a role or managing checks for your organisation, we make the process simple, secure and efficient.
At Criminal Record Checks, we provide fast, fully compliant Basic, Standard and Enhanced DBS applications with expert support at every stage. Whether you’re an individual applicant or an employer processing checks at scale, our team is here to help reduce delays and keep your recruitment moving.
Start your DBS application today or explore more guidance on our blog:
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