DBS Checks 2025: What Employers Need to Know
Carrying out the right DBS checks is vital for safer recruitment and regulatory compliance. As an employer, ensuring your staff have the correct Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks in place protects your organisation, your clients, and your reputation.
From April 2025, the DBS introduced updated identity (ID) checking guidance for all levels — Basic, Standard, and Enhanced DBS checks. These rules became mandatory from 1 November 2025, meaning every organisation must follow the new standards when verifying employee identity.
Here’s what employers need to know to stay compliant.
The Three Levels of DBS Checks
Basic DBS Check
A Basic DBS check shows unspent convictions and conditional cautions. It’s suitable for roles where only a basic level of reassurance is required and can be requested by any employer or individual.
Standard DBS Check
A Standard DBS check includes spent and unspent convictions, cautions, and warnings held on the Police National Computer (subject to filtering rules). Employers can request this level for eligible roles, such as those involving financial, legal, or administrative responsibility.
Enhanced DBS Check
An Enhanced DBS check includes everything covered in the Standard level, plus any relevant police information and checks against the adults’ and/or children’s barred lists. This level is required for regulated activity roles, such as those working with children or vulnerable adults.
StaffVetting.com supports organisations with all three levels of DBS checks, ensuring fast turnaround, expert support, and full compliance.
Key Updates to DBS ID-Checking Rules (Effective November 2025)
The new DBS guidance introduces clearer expectations for how employers must verify identity documents when carrying out DBS checks.
1. Retain Records for Two Years
Employers must now keep a record of identity checks for at least 24 months.
If you don’t retain document copies, you must record:
- The document type and country of issue
- Expiry date and reference number
- Any discrepancies found during verification
Maintaining this record ensures a clear audit trail for compliance and safeguarding purposes.
2. Three Approved Routes for ID Checking
Employers must always prioritise face-to-face verification (or use of a certified digital identity verification service) wherever possible. The remote routes below should only be used in exceptional circumstances, and employers must record a clear justification each time they are used.
Route 1 – In Person (Preferred):
Check original documents face-to-face. This remains the primary and most reliable method of identity verification.
Route 2 – Video Call with Originals Sent in Advance:
If in-person or digital checks aren’t possible, conduct a live video call while the applicant holds the original documents (sent or shown in advance). Record why this route was used.
Route 3 – Video Call Only:
As a last resort, documents may be viewed via live video call, but originals must still be checked in person or digitally before the individual’s first working day. Record justification for using this route.
3. Use of Digital Identity Verification
The DBS now supports the use of digital identity service providers (IDSPs) for eligible documents such as passports and driving licences.
Using digital ID verification can:
- Speed up the DBS check process
- Reduce the risk of document fraud
Simplify remote or hybrid onboarding
4. Updated Document Options
The new guidance adds flexibility for certain documents, including:
- Acceptance of eVisas and HM Armed Forces/Veteran ID cards
- Extending benefit statement validity from 3 to 12 months
Why DBS Compliance Matters
Failing to follow the updated DBS guidance can lead to:
- Delays or rejected applications
- Potential safeguarding breaches
- Damage to your organisation’s reputation
By keeping your DBS checks compliant, you’ll:
- Protect your organisation and service users
- Reduce recruitment delays
- Maintain full audit readiness
- Build trust with regulators and partners
Get Help with DBS Checks
At StaffVetting.com, we’ve supported UK employers with DBS checks and background screening for over 20 years.
Our secure online platform lets you submit, track, and manage applications efficiently — whether you need Basic, Standard, or Enhanced DBS checks.
Call 0191 588 7980 or email info@staffvetting.com to speak with our vetting experts.
Visit staffvetting.com/dbs-checks to learn more and get started today.