A Basic DBS can usually be completed within a couple of days of being submitted to the DBS, sometimes even the same day.

Standard and Enhanced checks will take longer because we need to countersign the application to make sure that it is a valid application.

Typically though, they can still be completed within 5 – 10 days after we submit it to DBS, but this can be shorter or longer depending on the complexity of the application. Enhanced DBS checks normally take around 14 working days however for complicated applications this can take considerably longer. If a file is at Stage 4 we will be able to understand and escalate this check only after 60 days. 

The timeline also depends on the volume of checks the DBS is processing at any one moment and this can vary considerably at different times of the year. E.g., during peak periods like Christmas the timeline can be longer because more people are applying for DBS checks as part of their seasonal work.

The DBS always send out the paper and digital certificates to the applicant or the sponsor (unless it’s a Standard or Enhanced, in which case, it always goes to the applicant.).

We strongly advise clients to register for the DBS update service so they can check progress once their check has been submitted to DBS: https://www.gov.uk/dbs-update-service