DBS Update Service

---

What is the DBS Update Service?

The DBS Update Service is an online subscription operated by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). It enables individuals with a Standard or Enhanced DBS certificate to keep their disclosure up to date. As a result, organisations can carry out instant online status checks, rather than requesting a new DBS check each time a role changes.

However, the service is only available for Standard and Enhanced BDS checks and cannot be used for Basic DBS checks.

---

Cost

• £16 per year
• Free for volunteers (as defined by the DBS)

You can pay your subscription directly to DBS with your debit or credit card.

---

What does the Update Service do?

The DBS update service does not issue a new DBS certificate. Instead, it allows authorised organisations (with the individuals consent) to confirm whether:

• The information disclosed on the original certificate has changed, or
• The certificate remains unchanged since its issue date

Alternatively, if nothing has changed you can reuse the certificate for the same role and level of check.

---

Who can join?

This service is available to anyone applying for a Standard or Enhanced DBS check.

You can join either:

• Track your DBS application, using your application reference number, or
• Use your certificate number, once it has been issued

However, if you choose to join after the issue, you must register within 30 calendar days of the certificate issue date. You cannot add the certificate to the Update Service after this deadline.

---

Why join?

For applicants, the Update Service offers several benefits. For example, it allows individuals to:

• Save time by avoiding repeat DBS application fees
• Use a single certificate across multiple employers or roles (where permitted)
• Move roles within the same workforce and level of check
• Retain control over who can view their DBS status
• Provide employers with immediate safeguarding assurance

---

Employer use and limitations

Organisations that use the Update Service:

• Do not need to register or pay to carry out status checks
• Must obtain the individual’s permission before checking
• Must be legally entitled to request that level of DBS check

Important

Before relying on an Update Service status check, employers must first view the original DBS certificate in person.

You may not copy of remotely review this.

---

Renewing the subscription

A DBS Update Service subscription lasts 12 months.

You can renew it:

• At the time of registration (via automatic renewal), or
• Up to 30 days before expiry

You cannot renew the subscription on the final day. If it expires, the individual will need to complete a new DBS check before re-joining the service.

---

Can SVS help to register?

The DBS Update Service is provided directly by the DBS to the applicant. Therefore, a DBS Umbrella Body such as, Security & Vetting Solutions (SVS) cannot register an applicant or renew their subscription. Only the applicant can access and manage their DBS Update Service account.

That said, in order to join the Update Service, the applicant must first complete a Standard or Enhanced DBS check. As a DBS Umbrella body, Security & Vetting Solutions can process these checks, provided the DBS eligibility criteria are met.

If your organisation requires Standard or Enhanced DBS checks for your employees, SVS can assist with the application process.

---

Get in touch with our team of experts:

---