A standard DBS check is a criminal record check used in the United Kingdom to provide employers with information about an individual’s criminal history. It is less detailed than an enhanced DBS check but still plays an important role in assessing suitability for certain positions of trust.

Standard checks are carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) in England and Wales, and by Disclosure Scotland in Scotland.

What does a Standard DBS Check include?

A standard DBS check searches the Police National Computer (PNC) and provides details of:

  • Spent and unspent convictions
  • Cautions
  • Reprimands and warnings (now replaced by youth cautions)

For each offence, the certificate may include information such as the date of conviction or caution, the nature of the offence, the court involved, and any sentence issued.

What is not included?

A standard DBS check does not include:

  • Checks against the Children’s or Adults’ Barred Lists
  • Local police intelligence or additional information
  • Fixed penalty notices (e.g. speeding or parking fines)
  • Allegations where no further action was taken
  • “Filtered” cautions or convictions

Filtered Cautions and Convictions

Certain older or less serious offences are removed (“filtered”) and will not appear on a standard DBS check:

  • Cautions:
    • 2 years (if under 18 at the time)
    • 6 years (if 18 or over)
  • Convictions:
    • 5.5 years (if under 18 at the time)
    • 11 years (if 18 or over)

However, some serious offences are never filtered and will always be disclosed. These include:

  • Many sexual offences
  • Serious violent offences (e.g. assault causing actual bodily harm, robbery)
  • Safeguarding offences
  • Drug supply offences

Who needs a Standard DBS Check?

Standard DBS checks are typically required for roles that involve a degree of responsibility or trust but do not involve direct work with vulnerable groups. Examples include:

  • Legal professionals
  • Accountants
  • Security roles
  • Financial services positions
  • Certain roles within government or the courts

How to apply

You cannot apply for a standard DBS check yourself. The application must be made by an employer or organisation, with your consent.

Once completed, the DBS certificate is issued to you, and you will usually need to provide it to your employer as part of the recruitment process.

Can self-employed individuals apply?

No, self-employed individuals cannot apply for a standard DBS check independently. The application must be submitted by an organisation or company requesting the check.