DBS Checks & Criminal Record Checks

Care Check is a leading umbrella body for the Disclosure and Barring Service and has been named one of the top 8 providers for criminal record checks in the UK.

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What You Need To Know About The Update Service

We receive a multitude of phone calls inquiring about the DBS update service. Many do not know what purpose it serves. Frequent questions occur, such as what is it? How do I register? and how much is it? We have therefore compiled a few key facts about the service that we hope you find useful.

What Is The DBS Update Service?

The DBS update service is an online subscription service that the Disclosure and Barring Service offers, which hosts your DBS check. This way, employers can view your certificate more efficiently, with your consent. The applicant will need to make an annual subscription of £13.00 to make a check transferable, and the registration will continue for as long as you continue your subscription.

How Long Do I Have To Register For The DBS Update Service?

All applicants have 30 days from the certificate issue date to register for the Update Service. Originally applicants only had 19 days, but this has recently been extended.

You can apply to register for the Update Service before a DBS Check completes. This can be done online or by telephone, and the applicant will need their DBS application form reference number. However, this is only permissible if the DBS receive the application within 28 days of subscription.

DBS Checks & Criminal Record Checks

What If I Change My Job Role After Registering For The DBS Update Service?

The Update Service ensures that you can transfer your check from job to job, providing the job role has not altered. So, for example, if an applicant previously worked with children in a regulated ‘child workforce’ but then was offered a new job role working with vulnerable adults, which would require an ‘adult workforce’, they would be required to apply for a new DBS check.

How Long Does My Subscription Last For?

If you do not renew your DBS update service subscription each year, you will be required to complete a new DBS check to register for the Update Service again. You can renew your subscription by:

  1. selecting automatic renewal when you first register for the update service OR
  2. you can renew your subscription up to 30 days before your current subscription ends; however, you cannot renew on the last day of your subscription.

Care Check does not offer registration for the Update Service, so you will need to go directly to the DBS if you wish to subscribe. Alternatively, you can register directly to the DBS Update Service by CLICKING HERE.

If you would like additional information on the Update Service, please contact the DBS directly on 03000 200 190.

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