ID Verification for Criminal Record Checks:

10 Essential Tips

ID verification for Criminal Record Checks play a critical role in ensuring accurate and compliant DBS applications. When an individual applies for a Criminal Record Check, such as a Basic DBS Check, through a responsible organisation like Security & Vetting Solutions, you must verify their identity correctly.

This requirement applies to both our fully managed and self-managed online Criminal Record Check solutions. Following the correct process helps prevent delays, avoids application rejection and ensures compliance with official guidance. Below, we share 10 essential tips for successful ID verification for Criminal Record Checks.

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Understanding ID Verification for Criminal Record Checks

To complete ID verification for Criminal Record Checks, applicants must provide at least two original documents that confirm identity and current address. Security & Vetting Solutions will guide you on acceptable document combinations for each solution.

You must check documents in the presence of the document holder. This can tak eplace:

In person, or

Via a live video call, such as Skype or FaceTime

However, you must always hold the original documents physically. You must not verify identity using scanned copies, photographs, screenshots or faxed documents.

If information provided by the applicant does not match the documents and fraud does not appear likely, ask the applicant to calrify the issue before you submit the application.

Common ID Verification Rules You Must Follow

Following basic verification rules ensures compliance and helps your applications progress smoothly.

• Always examine current and valid documents
• Compare personal details arefully
• Query discrepancies early
• Document discussions where clarification is required

Sticking to these principles reduces errors and speeds up processing.

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Top 10 Tips for ID Verification for Criminal Records Checks

1.You must only accept valid, current and original documentation.

2.You must not accept photocopies.

3.You must not accept documentation printed from the internet, for example internet bank statement screenshots printed from internet banking.

4.Identity information for the applicant’s name, date of birth and address must be validated.

5.You should, in the first instance, seek documents with photographic identity (e.g. passport, new style driving licence, etc.) and compare this against the applicant’s likeness.

6.All documents must be in the applicant’s current name as recorded on the application form or CV.

7.You must ensure that the applicant declares all previous name changes, and provides documentary proof to support the change of name. If the applicant is unable to provide proof to support the change of name, you should hold a probing discussion with the applicant about the reasons why, before validating their identity.

8.You should cross-match the applicant’s address history with any other information you have been given, such as their CV or application form. This can highlight if an address has not been given. For example, if the applicant’s CV shows that they have worked in Liverpool in the last 5 years, but the application form shows only London addresses, you may wish to question the applicant.

9.A document from each of the groups should be included only once in the document count. As one example, don’t accept two bank statements as two of the required documents, if they are from the same bank.

10.You should not accept the foreign equivalent of an identity document if that document is listed as ‘(UK)’ on the list of valid identity documents.

With some exception, this guide can also be applicable for the ID verification process for security screening, for example BS7858 or Baseline Personnel Security Screening (BPSS).
 
You can find further guidance by following the link below:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/basic-check-guidance-and-policies

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Our Criminal Record Checks department is always on hand to assist, so if you have any questions whatsoever.

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