Once you have submitted your application form it will go to your employer’s umbrella body for countersigning, subsequently it will go to the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS).
If your application is a Basic or Standard DBS check, it will go through the first 2 Stages shown below and then skip to Stage 5.
If your application is an Enhanced DBS check it will go through all the stages shown below, unless the children’s or vulnerable adults barred list does not apply, then it will skip Stage 3.
Stage 1 – Application Form Validation
The application form is checked by the DBS before they scan it onto their system, if there are any errors the form is returned to the umbrella body that submitted it within 24 hours.
Stage 2 – The Police National Computer Search
The details from the application form are checked against the Police National Computer (PNC) database for any possible matches.
Stage 3 – Children’s and Adults Barred Lists Searched (where applicable)
Relevant information from the application form is checked against the relevant barring lists in order to check for any matches.
Stage 4 – Records held by the police search
The Enhanced DBS checks are sent to the relevant local police force(s) for an additional check of records before the application is sent to the DBS. This stage ensures that potential matches are not missed as the application details are checked against police records. An exact timescale cannot be given for this stage as every application is different. Sometimes the police forces have a backlog of applications therefore there can be delays at this stage whilst the relevant checks are completed.
Stage 5 – DBS certificate printed
This is the final stage of the DBS application process. All the information to be disclosed on the certificate is printed and posted to the applicant directly if the application was a Standard or Enhanced DBS check. If you have not received your certificate within 14 calendar days of the Stage 5 date, please contact the DBS on 0300 0200 190 and request a reprint.
How can I track the progress of my DBS check?
You can track the progress of your application online through the DBS website here , selecting the relevant tracking link depending on your level of DBS check.
If you require further advice on DBS checks please call us on 0151 638 6158 or email us at [email protected].
If you’re an employer requiring DBS checks for your staff, we would be delighted to process your checks for you. Register here, it only takes a few minutes!