Provided only by the Disclosure and Barring Service, the DBS Update Service allows applicants to keep their Standard and Enhanced DBS checks up to date.
It is not possible for Aaron's Department, or any other umbrella body, to directly sign applicants up to the update service. However, it can easily be done on the official Government DBS website.
The DBS update service check allows people to take DBS certificates from role to role within the same workforce (if the same level of check is needed). For example, if a Standard DBS was done, an applicant could use it in a new role if this same level of check was needed. However, if an Enhanced check was needed, a new DBS application would have to be done.
How do Employers Check DBS Update Service?
The DBS online update service also helps employers to easily check their applicant's certificate online, and carry out status checks, with consent.
To view the online certificate, an employer, or organisation, needs the 12-digit DBS certificate reference number, the applicant's name and date of birth. They can then go online and carry out a status check on the certificates.
Below is what the DBS update service login page looks like.
How Much Does the DBS Update Service Cost?
The update service DBS check costs £13 per year and starts from the day of the DBS certificate issue date.
If the applicant is a volunteer, then the service charge is waived.
How Long Does the DBS Online Update Service Last?
Once the applicant is registered, this lasts for one year. The Disclosure and Barring Service will email you before your subscription ends to check if you want to renew the service.
What Information is Needed to Register for the DBS Update Service?
The information which you need to register for the update service is as follows:
- Name.
- Gender.
- Date of birth.
- Email address.
- Reference number, depending on the method used (see below).
- A card to pay for the Update Service fee (if applicable).
How to Register for the DBS Update Service
Employers are unable to register for the update service, as this is something only an applicant (the person for who the check is done) can do.
This can be done in a couple of ways on the DBS Update Service register page.
Application Reference Number
When the applicant applies for a DBS check, they can join the DBS online update service using their application reference number.
For this method, the DBS application must be received by the DBS within 28 days of joining the update service.
The DBS will then add the certificate to the applicant's account when it is issued.
DBS Certificate Number
When the DBS check is complete and the applicant has received their certificate, they have 19 days from the 'date of issue' to register.
This can be done using the number on the DBS certificate itself.
Further Information
To find out more about this service, and register yourself for it, please read the Government DBS Update Service guide, by clicking here.
