Can an individual apply for a DBS Check?
At Personnel Checks we specialize at processing DBS Checks for individuals, freelancers and the self-employed. But the rules around DBS Checks can be confusing when you’re working solo. In most cases, individuals are only eligible to apply for certain levels of check. There are three levels of DBS Check in total. Understanding a bit more about them is essential to understanding which DBS Checks individuals can apply for.
The Three Levels of DBS Check
There are three levels of DBS Check: Basic, Standard and Enhanced.
A Basic DBS Check or Basic Disclosure is a search against the Police National Computer (PNC). This check reveals any ‘unspent’ convictions or cautions on someone’s record, as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (ROA).
A Standard DBS Check also covers unspent convictions and cautions. A Standard Disclosure would also show spent convictions, cautions, reprimands and warnings. These are generally used for very specific roles in certain sectors, such as the financial sector.
The Enhanced DBS Check is the highest level of criminal record check available in the UK. This DBS Check will reveal spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, warnings, any relevant police notes, and an optional search of the Barred Lists.
HOW DO I APPLY FOR A BASIC DBS CHECK FOR MYSELF?
Anybody is allowed to apply for a Basic DBS Check. It’s an incredibly simple process to complete. All you need to do is make a payment, fill in an application and confirm your identity. If you want to get started with a Basic DBS Check, you can do so via our dedicated service here.
Can I Apply for a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check for myself?
Yes you can! As long as you meet all the relevant criteria then you can apply for either a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check for yourself.
You must be applying for the purposes of employment, either as someone who is self-employed, or, when entering into an employment contract with a private individual or household, such as being a nanny or carer.
Additionally, the type of employment must be classed as regulated activity and must be meet the DBS’ eligibility criteria. You can read more about the DBS eligibility criteria on their website, here.
HOW DO I APPLY FOR A STANDARD DBS CHECK FOR MYSELF?
As of January 2026, self-employed individuals who meet the relevant criteria are entitled to apply for a Standard DBS Check. You can apply directly with Personnel Checks here.
You can also find more detailed information about DBS Checks for the self-employed, here.
HOW DO I APPLY FOR AN ENHANCED DBS CHECK FOR MYSELF?
As of January 2026, self-employed individuals who meet the relevant criteria are entitled to apply for an Enhanced DBS Check. You can apply directly with Personnel Checks here.
You can also find more detailed information about DBS Checks for the self-employed, here.
Alternatively, it might be the case that you need to apply for your Enhanced DBS Check directly with a regulatory body. This is the case when registering as a responsible individual with the CQC or with Ofsted. Make sure you know of any requirements for your DBS Check before applying.
There are also different rules for taxi, private hire and hackney carriage drivers. If you’re a driver, click here for more information.
IS THERE AN OPTION TO GET DBS CHECKS FOR FREE?
There isn’t an option to get DBS Checks for free. However, volunteers can get DBS Checks at a discounted rate. Our parent company, Personnel Checks, can process DBS checks for volunteers at £18.50.
To be able to carry out these checks, individuals must meet be eligible for an Enhanced DBS Check and meet the DBS criteria of a ‘true’ volunteer. This is someone who answers no to the following 4 questions:
Is the applicant in receipt of any payment (except for travel and other approved out-of-pocket expenses)?
Is the applicant on a Placement/Work Experience?
Is the applicant on a course that requires them to do this job role?
Is the applicant in a trainee position that will lead to a full-time role/qualification?
Unfortunately, individuals cannot apply for these checks as they are subject to the same rules as the Standard and Enhanced DBS Check.
If you need to get a Basic DBS Check, we can get one sorted for you in minutes, just click here.