What is a Basic DBS Check?
A Basic DBS check is the entry-level criminal record check available in the UK, providing essential background screening information for both employers and individuals. Unlike Enhanced DBS checks, which are restricted to specific purposes, Basic DBS checks can be requested by anyone for any purpose, making them the most accessible form of official criminal record disclosure.
As a registered umbrella body with the Disclosure and Barring Service, APCS provides a straightforward online platform for processing Basic DBS checks efficiently. Whether you’re an individual seeking to demonstrate your clean record for employment opportunities, or an employer looking to screen candidates for general positions, our system delivers reliable results with minimal fuss.
Basic DBS checks offer a practical solution for situations where comprehensive Enhanced screening isn’t required or legally permissible. They’re particularly valuable for individuals who want to have their criminal record certificate ready for multiple applications, or employers recruiting for roles that don’t involve working with vulnerable groups.
Our streamlined online process means you can apply for and receive your Basic DBS certificate quickly, with full support from our UK-based team throughout the application process.
For positions requiring more detailed screening, we also offer Enhanced DBS Checks through our efficient online platform. However, these are restricted to eligible roles and cannot be applied for by an individual directly.
What does a Basic DBS Check show?
A Basic DBS check provides a focused view of an individual’s criminal record, specifically disclosing unspent convictions and conditional cautions only. This level of screening offers employers and other requesting parties essential information whilst respecting the rehabilitation of offenders principle.
The check will show:
- Unspent convictions – Criminal convictions that haven’t yet reached their rehabilitation period under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
- Unspent conditional cautions – Formal police cautions with conditions that remain active
Importantly, Basic DBS checks do not include:
- Spent convictions (those that have passed their rehabilitation period)
- Warnings or reprimands
- Barred list information
- Additional police information
The filtering rules that apply to Enhanced checks don’t affect Basic DBS certificates, as they only ever show unspent matters anyway. This makes the disclosure straightforward and predictable.
For many employment situations, this level of information provides sufficient assurance without unnecessarily penalising individuals for historical matters that are considered legally spent. It strikes a balance between safeguarding requirements and supporting rehabilitation.
If the individual has no unspent convictions or conditional cautions, the certificate will clearly state this, providing positive confirmation of a clean current record.
Who Can Apply for a Basic DBS Check?
One of the key advantages of Basic DBS checks is their universal accessibility. Unlike Enhanced DBS checks, which are restricted to specific eligible roles, Basic DBS checks can be requested by anyone, for any legitimate purpose.
Individual Applications
Anyone can apply for their own Basic DBS check, regardless of their employment situation or the role they’re seeking. Common reasons individuals choose to obtain their own Basic DBS certificate include:
- Job applications – Having a current certificate ready for multiple applications
- Volunteer work – Demonstrating suitability for community roles
- Professional requirements – Meeting industry standards or licensing conditions
- Peace of mind – Confirming what information would be disclosed to employers
- Immigration purposes – Supporting visa or residency applications
- Academic applications – Meeting university or training course requirements
Employer Applications
Any employer can request Basic DBS checks for their recruitment processes, provided they have legitimate grounds and the applicant’s consent. This includes:
- General employment screening – For roles that don’t qualify for Enhanced checks
- Customer-facing positions – Where trust and reliability are important
- Financial services roles – Complementing other regulatory checks
- Security positions – As part of comprehensive screening
- Retail management – For supervisory and senior positions
- Administrative roles – Where staff handle sensitive information
Legal Framework
Unlike Enhanced DBS checks, there are no specific legislative restrictions on who can apply for Basic DBS checks. The main requirements are simply that the application is made with proper consent and for a legitimate purpose.
Why do I need a Basic DBS Check?
Basic DBS checks serve a wide range of purposes across different sectors and situations. Understanding when this level of screening is appropriate helps ensure you’re using the right tool for your specific requirements.
Employment Screening
For many roles, Basic DBS checks provide adequate criminal record information without the restrictions that apply to Enhanced screening. Typical examples include:
- Office-based roles where staff don’t work directly with vulnerable groups
- Retail positions, particularly those involving cash handling or customer service
- Hospitality roles such as hotel reception, restaurant management, or event coordination
- Administrative positions in any sector where basic background screening is desired
- Sales roles where staff visit client premises or handle valuable goods
- Warehouse and logistics positions involving inventory or delivery responsibilities
Professional and Licensing Requirements
Some industries or professional bodies require Basic DBS checks as part of their standard requirements:
- Personal alcohol licence authorising an individual to sell or supply alcohol at a licensed premises
- Some financial services roles where regulatory standards apply
- Professional membership applications for certain trade associations
- Contractor vetting for companies working on commercial premises
Voluntary and Community Work
While many volunteer roles with vulnerable groups require Enhanced checks, Basic screening can be appropriate for:
- General community volunteering that doesn’t involve regulated activity
- Fundraising activities and charity shop work
- Sports club administration and general committee roles
- Community group leadership positions without direct care responsibilities
Personal Applications
Individuals often choose to obtain their own Basic DBS certificate to:
- Streamline job applications by having current disclosure ready
- Support visa or immigration applications where criminal record information is required
- Meet educational requirements for certain courses or qualifications
- Satisfy licensing conditions for various professional activities
The flexibility of Basic DBS checks makes them suitable for any situation where official confirmation of current criminal record status is needed, without the complexity and restrictions of Enhanced screening.
How the Application Works with APCS
Our Basic DBS check process has been designed for simplicity and efficiency, whether you’re applying as an individual or processing checks for your organisation. The streamlined system works in clearly defined steps:
For Individual Applications
- Create your personal account – Register on our secure online portal with no setup fees or hidden costs
- Complete your application – Provide your personal details and address history through our user-friendly form
- Submit and pay – Complete your application with secure online payment
- ID verification – Send us certified copies of your identity documents so we can verify your details
- Certificate delivery – Receive your Basic DBS certificate directly by post to your registered address
For Employer Applications
- Set up your employer account – Register your organisation with same-day activation for most accounts
- Initiate applications – Send links to applicants so they can complete their own forms
- Monitor progress – Track all applications through our Management Reporting System
- ID verification – Verify the details in the application form
- Receive notifications – Get electronic confirmation when certificates are issued
Throughout the process, you maintain full visibility of your application status through our online portal. Our UK-based support team is available to assist with any questions via phone or email, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.
The system automatically validates certain information as it’s entered, reducing the likelihood of delays caused by incomplete or incorrect details. This attention to quality control helps ensure the Basic DBS check progresses as quickly as possible through the official DBS processing stages.
How much does a Basic DBS Check Cost?
For organisations ordering checks, the total cost for a Basic DBS check through APCS is £34.70. This comprises the official DBS fee of £21.50 and our administrative processing charge of £11.00 + VAT. Our transparent pricing means you know exactly what you’re paying with no surprise charges.
Setting up your employer account with AP# Basic DBS Checks
What is a Basic DBS Check?
A Basic DBS check is the entry-level criminal record check available in the UK, providing essential background screening information for both employers and individuals. Unlike Enhanced DBS checks, which are restricted to specific purposes, Basic DBS checks can be requested by anyone for any purpose, making them the most accessible form of official criminal record disclosure.
As a registered umbrella body with the Disclosure and Barring Service, APCS provides a straightforward online platform for processing Basic DBS checks efficiently. Whether you’re an individual seeking to demonstrate your clean record for employment opportunities, or an employer looking to screen candidates for general positions, our system delivers reliable results with minimal fuss.
Basic DBS checks offer a practical solution for situations where comprehensive Enhanced screening isn’t required or legally permissible. They’re particularly valuable for individuals who want to have their criminal record certificate ready for multiple applications, or employers recruiting for roles that don’t involve working with vulnerable groups.
Our streamlined online process means you can apply for and receive your Basic DBS certificate quickly, with full support from our UK-based team throughout the application process.
For positions requiring more detailed screening, we also offer Enhanced DBS Checks through our efficient online platform. However, these are restricted to eligible roles and cannot be applied for by an individual directly.
What does a Basic DBS Check show?
A Basic DBS check provides a focused view of an individual’s criminal record, specifically disclosing unspent convictions and conditional cautions only. This level of screening offers employers and other requesting parties essential information whilst respecting the rehabilitation of offenders principle.
The check will show:
- Unspent convictions – Criminal convictions that haven’t yet reached their rehabilitation period under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
- Unspent conditional cautions – Formal police cautions with conditions that remain active
Importantly, Basic DBS checks do not include:
- Spent convictions (those that have passed their rehabilitation period)
- Warnings or reprimands
- Barred list information
- Additional police information
The filtering rules that apply to Enhanced checks don’t affect Basic DBS certificates, as they only ever show unspent matters anyway. This makes the disclosure straightforward and predictable.
For many employment situations, this level of information provides sufficient assurance without unnecessarily penalising individuals for historical matters that are considered legally spent. It strikes a balance between safeguarding requirements and supporting rehabilitation.
If the individual has no unspent convictions or conditional cautions, the certificate will clearly state this, providing positive confirmation of a clean current record.
Who Can Apply for a Basic DBS Check?
One of the key advantages of Basic DBS checks is their universal accessibility. Unlike Enhanced DBS checks, which are restricted to specific eligible roles, Basic DBS checks can be requested by anyone, for any legitimate purpose.
Individual Applications
Anyone can apply for their own Basic DBS check, regardless of their employment situation or the role they’re seeking. Common reasons individuals choose to obtain their own Basic DBS certificate include:
- Job applications – Having a current certificate ready for multiple applications
- Volunteer work – Demonstrating suitability for community roles
- Professional requirements – Meeting industry standards or licensing conditions
- Peace of mind – Confirming what information would be disclosed to employers
- Immigration purposes – Supporting visa or residency applications
- Academic applications – Meeting university or training course requirements
Employer Applications
Any employer can request Basic DBS checks for their recruitment processes, provided they have legitimate grounds and the applicant’s consent. This includes:
- General employment screening – For roles that don’t qualify for Enhanced checks
- Customer-facing positions – Where trust and reliability are important
- Financial services roles – Complementing other regulatory checks
- Security positions – As part of comprehensive screening
- Retail management – For supervisory and senior positions
- Administrative roles – Where staff handle sensitive information
Legal Framework
Unlike Enhanced DBS checks, there are no specific legislative restrictions on who can apply for Basic DBS checks. The main requirements are simply that the application is made with proper consent and for a legitimate purpose.
Why do I need a Basic DBS Check?
Basic DBS checks serve a wide range of purposes across different sectors and situations. Understanding when this level of screening is appropriate helps ensure you’re using the right tool for your specific requirements.
Employment Screening
For many roles, Basic DBS checks provide adequate criminal record information without the restrictions that apply to Enhanced screening. Typical examples include:
- Office-based roles where staff don’t work directly with vulnerable groups
- Retail positions, particularly those involving cash handling or customer service
- Hospitality roles such as hotel reception, restaurant management, or event coordination
- Administrative positions in any sector where basic background screening is desired
- Sales roles where staff visit client premises or handle valuable goods
- Warehouse and logistics positions involving inventory or delivery responsibilities
Professional and Licensing Requirements
Some industries or professional bodies require Basic DBS checks as part of their standard requirements:
- Personal alcohol licence authorising an individual to sell or supply alcohol at a licensed premises
- Some financial services roles where regulatory standards apply
- Professional membership applications for certain trade associations
- Contractor vetting for companies working on commercial premises
Voluntary and Community Work
While many volunteer roles with vulnerable groups require Enhanced checks, Basic screening can be appropriate for:
- General community volunteering that doesn’t involve regulated activity
- Fundraising activities and charity shop work
- Sports club administration and general committee roles
- Community group leadership positions without direct care responsibilities
Personal Applications
Individuals often choose to obtain their own Basic DBS certificate to:
- Streamline job applications by having current disclosure ready
- Support visa or immigration applications where criminal record information is required
- Meet educational requirements for certain courses or qualifications
- Satisfy licensing conditions for various professional activities
The flexibility of Basic DBS checks makes them suitable for any situation where official confirmation of current criminal record status is needed, without the complexity and restrictions of Enhanced screening.
How the Application Works with APCS
Our Basic DBS check process has been designed for simplicity and efficiency, whether you’re applying as an individual or processing checks for your organisation. The streamlined system works in clearly defined steps:
For Individual Applications
- Create your personal account – Register on our secure online portal with no setup fees or hidden costs
- Complete your application – Provide your personal details and address history through our user-friendly form
- Submit and pay – Complete your application with secure online payment
- ID verification – Send us certified copies of your identity documents so we can verify your details
- Certificate delivery – Receive your Basic DBS certificate directly by post to your registered address
For Employer Applications
- Set up your employer account – Register your organisation with same-day activation for most accounts
- Initiate applications – Send links to applicants so they can complete their own forms
- Monitor progress – Track all applications through our Management Reporting System
- ID verification – Verify the details in the application form
- Receive notifications – Get electronic confirmation when certificates are issued
Throughout the process, you maintain full visibility of your application status through our online portal. Our UK-based support team is available to assist with any questions via phone or email, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.
The system automatically validates certain information as it’s entered, reducing the likelihood of delays caused by incomplete or incorrect details. This attention to quality control helps ensure the Basic DBS check progresses as quickly as possible through the official DBS processing stages.
How much does a Basic DBS Check Cost?
For organisations ordering checks, the total cost for a Basic DBS check through APCS is £34.70. This comprises the official DBS fee of £21.50 and our administrative processing charge of £11.00 + VAT. Our transparent pricing means you know exactly what you’re paying with no surprise charges.
Setting up your employer account with APCS is completely free, with same-day activation available for most organisations. This allows you to begin submitting applications immediately without delay to your recruitment process.
For organisations requiring volume screening, we offer substantial discounts on our admin fees based on monthly application quantities. Large employers or those with specific requirements are invited to contact our account team directly for a tailored quotation. Our flexible billing options include monthly invoicing for qualifying organisations.
All fees are regularly reviewed to ensure we maintain our commitment to competitive pricing whilst delivering exceptional service quality.
How long does a Basic DBS Check take?
Basic DBS checks are typically processed more quickly than Enhanced checks, with most certificates completed within 1-2 days, though several factors can influence the exact timeframe.
The process involves multiple stages, some of which are outside our direct control:
Application Processing: Our team reviews and validates your application before electronic submission to the DBS, usually within 1 hour of receipt.
DBS Processing: The Disclosure and Barring Service conducts the official criminal record search on the Police National Computer. Basic checks generally process faster than Enhanced checks as they involve fewer database searches.
Certificate Production: Once cleared, the DBS produces and posts the physical certificate directly to the applicant’s nominated address, if the applicant opted for a paper certificate.
What affects the time that it takes for a Basic DBS Check to be processed?
Application Quality: Complete and accurate information helps avoid delays. Our online form includes validation to catch common errors before submission.
DBS Workload: Overall processing times can fluctuate based on the DBS’s current application volumes and operational capacity.
Address Verification: Unusual address histories or incomplete postcode information may require additional verification steps.
Postal Delivery: As certificates are sent by standard post, delivery times can occasionally be affected by postal delays.
For time-sensitive situations, we recommend applying as early as possible in your process. Our team monitors all applications and can provide progress updates when needed. While we cannot expedite official DBS processing, we ensure every stage within our control operates at maximum efficiency.
Why Choose APCS for DBS Checks?
APCS brings over two decades of experience as a registered DBS umbrella body, providing the expertise and reliability that both individuals and employers need for their criminal record screening requirements.
Established Expertise: Our 20+ years as a registered umbrella body means we’ve navigated every type of application scenario and can resolve processing challenges quickly and effectively.
Universal Access: Whether you’re an individual needing a Basic DBS check for job applications or an employer screening candidates, our platform accommodates both personal and business requirements seamlessly.
No Hidden Costs: We maintain transparent pricing with no setup fees, training charges, or minimum spend requirements. You pay only for the checks you need.
Data Security Excellence: Our ISO 27001 certification demonstrates our commitment to protecting your personal information throughout the entire process.
Flexible Payment Options: Individual applicants can pay securely online, while business customers benefit from various billing arrangements including monthly invoicing for eligible organisations.
UK-Based Support: Our specialist team is based in the UK and understands the nuances of DBS regulations and processing requirements. Support is available via phone and email during business hours.
Proven Track Record: Thousands of organisations and individuals have trusted us with their DBS requirements, reflected in consistently positive customer feedback and high online ratings.
Scalable Service: From single personal applications to high-volume corporate screening programmes, we adapt our service to meet your specific requirements without compromising on quality or compliance.
Whether you need a one-off Basic DBS check or ongoing screening support for your organisation, APCS provides the professional service and regulatory expertise to meet your requirements efficiently.
Compliance & Data Protection
Processing criminal record information requires the highest standards of data protection and regulatory compliance. Our comprehensive framework ensures your personal information remains secure throughout every stage of the Basic DBS application process.
GDPR and UK Data Protection: All operations are fully aligned with current data protection legislation, with specific protocols designed for handling criminal record data. Personal information is processed only for legitimate purposes and retained for the minimum necessary period.
ISO 27001 Certification: Our Information Security Management System meets the international standard for information security, with all data stored in certified UK data centres. This certification is maintained through regular audits and continuous improvement processes.
Staff Vetting and Training: All personnel with access to DBS application data undergo enhanced vetting and receive comprehensive training on the DBS Code of Practice and data handling requirements. Access controls operate on a strict need-to-know basis.
Regulatory Compliance: As a registered umbrella body, we maintain full accreditation through DBS audits and compliance reviews. Our policies and procedures are regularly updated to reflect legislative changes and industry best practices.
Secure Processing: All data transmission uses encrypted connections, and physical security measures protect paper documents where required. Application data is processed in accordance with DBS requirements and deleted securely when no longer needed.
Applicant Rights: We provide clear information about how personal data is processed and support individuals’ rights under data protection legislation, including access to their information and correction of inaccuracies.
Our commitment to compliance and data protection gives you confidence that your Basic DBS application is handled with the highest professional standards, meeting all regulatory requirements whilst protecting your privacy throughout the process.CS is completely free, with same-day activation available for most organisations. This allows you to begin submitting applications immediately without delay to your recruitment process.
For organisations requiring volume screening, we offer substantial discounts on our admin fees based on monthly application quantities. Large employers or those with specific requirements are invited to contact our account team directly for a tailored quotation. Our flexible billing options include monthly invoicing for qualifying organisations.
All fees are regularly reviewed to ensure we maintain our commitment to competitive pricing whilst delivering exceptional service quality.
How long does a Basic DBS Check take?
Basic DBS checks are typically processed more quickly than Enhanced checks, with most certificates completed within 1-2 days, though several factors can influence the exact timeframe.
The process involves multiple stages, some of which are outside our direct control:
Application Processing: Our team reviews and validates your application before electronic submission to the DBS, usually within 1 hour of receipt. DBS Processing: The Disclosure and Barring Service conducts the official criminal record search on the Police National Computer. Basic checks generally process faster than Enhanced checks as they involve fewer database searches. Certificate Production: Once cleared, the DBS produces and posts the physical certificate directly to the applicant’s nominated address, if the applicant opted for a paper certificate.
What affects the time that it takes for a Basic DBS Check to be processed?
- Application Quality: Complete and accurate information helps avoid delays. Our online form includes validation to catch common errors before submission.
- DBS Workload: Overall processing times can fluctuate based on the DBS’s current application volumes and operational capacity
- Address Verification: Unusual address histories or incomplete postcode information may require additional verification steps.
- Postal Delivery: As certificates are sent by standard post, delivery times can occasionally be affected by postal delays.
For time-sensitive situations, we recommend applying as early as possible in your process. Our team monitors all applications and can provide progress updates when needed. While we cannot expedite official DBS processing, we ensure every stage within our control operates at maximum efficiency.
Why Choose APCS for DBS Checks?
APCS brings over two decades of experience as a registered DBS umbrella body, providing the expertise and reliability that both individuals and employers need for their criminal record screening requirements.
- Established Expertise: Our 20+ years as a registered umbrella body means we’ve navigated every type of application scenario and can resolve processing challenges quickly and effectively.
- Universal Access: Whether you’re an individual needing a Basic DBS check for job applications or an employer screening candidates, our platform accommodates both personal and business requirements seamlessly.
- No Hidden Costs: We maintain transparent pricing with no setup fees, training charges, or minimum spend requirements. You pay only for the checks you need.
- Data Security Excellence: Our ISO 27001 certification demonstrates our commitment to protecting your personal information throughout the entire process.
- Flexible Payment Options: Individual applicants can pay securely online, while business customers benefit from various billing arrangements including monthly invoicing for eligible organisations.
- UK-Based Support: Our specialist team is based in the UK and understands the nuances of DBS regulations and processing requirements. Support is available via phone and email during business hours.
- Proven Track Record: Thousands of organisations and individuals have trusted us with their DBS requirements, reflected in consistently positive customer feedback and high online ratings.
- Scalable Service: From single personal applications to high-volume corporate screening programmes, we adapt our service to meet your specific requirements without compromising on quality or compliance.
Whether you need a one-off Basic DBS check or ongoing screening support for your organisation, APCS provides the professional service and regulatory expertise to meet your requirements efficiently.
Compliance & Data Protection
Processing criminal record information requires the highest standards of data protection and regulatory compliance. Our comprehensive framework ensures your personal information remains secure throughout every stage of the Basic DBS application process.
- GDPR and UK Data Protection: All operations are fully aligned with current data protection legislation, with specific protocols designed for handling criminal record data. Personal information is processed only for legitimate purposes and retained for the minimum necessary period.
- ISO 27001 Certification: Our Information Security Management System meets the international standard for information security, with all data stored in certified UK data centres. This certification is maintained through regular audits and continuous improvement processes.
- Staff Vetting and Training: All personnel with access to DBS application data undergo enhanced vetting and receive comprehensive training on the DBS Code of Practice and data handling requirements. Access controls operate on a strict need-to-know basis.
- Regulatory Compliance: As a registered umbrella body, we maintain full accreditation through DBS audits and compliance reviews. Our policies and procedures are regularly updated to reflect legislative changes and industry best practices.
- Secure Processing: All data transmission uses encrypted connections, and physical security measures protect paper documents where required. Application data is processed in accordance with DBS requirements and deleted securely when no longer needed.
- Applicant Rights: We provide clear information about how personal data is processed and support individuals’ rights under data protection legislation, including access to their information and correction of inaccuracies.
Our commitment to compliance and data protection gives you confidence that your Basic DBS application is handled with the highest professional standards, meeting all regulatory requirements whilst protecting your privacy throughout the process.
