How to Get a DBS Check Quickly in the UK:

DBS Escalation Guide

Are you applying for a job or volunteer role in the UK and need a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check fast tracked? If your application has been in progress for too long or you simply cannot afford to wait, this guide explains how and when to escalate your DBS application.

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What Is a DBS Check?

Before diving into the DBS escalation, let’s recap what a DBS check is.

A Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check, formerly known as a Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) check, reveals a person’s criminal history in England & Wales.

There are three levels of DBS check that you may wish to complete quickly:

Basic

The Basic check is to confirm whether someone has any unspent criminal convictions and cautions. This check is available to everyone.

Standard

Standard DBS check includes details of all spent and unspent convictions, including any adult cautions. However, only specific professions can access this type of disclosure; these professions must be listed under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order.

Enhanced

An Enhanced DBS check is for roles where vulnerable children and/or adults may be present. This includes spent and unspent criminal record convictions, along with a check of information held by police forces.

You may also be entitled to an Enhanced disclosure with Barred List check(s), which includes the same information as an Enhanced check plus a search of the children’s and/or adults’ barred lists. These lists record individuals who are legally barred from working with specific vulnerable groups.

Any Enhanced criminal record checks are subject to confirmation of legal eligibility criteria.

See our blog for clarification: The Different Types of DBS Checks

Learn more about DBS check types on GOV.UK

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How Long Does a DBS Check Take?

The time a DBS check takes depends on the level of disclosure and whether local police checks are required.

On average:

Basic DBS: often completed within 24 and 48 hours

Standard DBS: usually 2-7 working days, but may take longer.

Enhanced DBS: typically, 2-4 weeks, though delays are common.

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DBS check stages (Enhanced checks)

For an Enhanced DBS check, the application passes through five stages:

Stage 1 – Application received and validated

Stage 2 – Police National Computer (PNC) searched

Stage 3 – Children and/or Adults’ Barred List searched (where applicable)

Stage 4 – Local police force records searched (this is where most delays can occur)

Stage 5 – Certificate printed and issued

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DBS Checks Taking Too Long? How Escalation Works in 2026

Where can an applicant request escalation?

As an applicant, you may contact DBS if:

• Your DBS application has been in progress for more than be eligible to request an escalation if your DBS application 28 days, and
• The application is currently at Stage 4 (local police checks), and
• You are facing financial hardship or risk of losing employment.

If you are a Registered Body, you can request an escalation for an Enhanced check after 60 days of being in Stage 4.

There is no official application form for a DBS escalation. To apply, you will need to email customer.services@dbs.gov.uk and provide them with evidence, which could include:

Correspondence from an employer stating that they must receive your DBS certificate by a certain date

Your full name and contact details

DBS application reference number

A brief explanation of the delay and a request for escalation

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Unsure of which level of check you are entitled to?

If you are unsure Check here today.

Are you an organisation looking for a trusted provider of criminal record checks? Contact us today to find out how we can streamline your checks and make sure your DBS check result comes fast.

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