If you are needing self-employed DBS checks for your work, the level of check you require will depend on the type of work you carry out.
The two most common options for self-employed professionals are a Basic DBS check and an Enhanced DBS check.
A Basic DBS check is suitable for many types of self-employed work, while an Enhanced DBS check is typically required for roles involving children or vulnerable adults.
This page explains the difference between the two and helps you decide which DBS check may be appropriate for your work.
Compare Basic & Enhanced DBS Checks
Basic Self-Employed DBS Checks
A Basic DBS check is the most common level of criminal record check for self-employed professionals.
It shows any unspent criminal convictions recorded against an individual and can be requested by anyone.
Many freelancers, sole traders, and independent professionals obtain a Basic DBS certificate to demonstrate trust and transparency to the people they work with.
This is often suitable for professionals who work directly with clients but do not carry out regulated activity with vulnerable groups.
Enhanced Self-Employed DBS Checks
An Enhanced DBS check is the highest level of criminal record check available.
It includes more detailed information from police records and may also include checks of the children’s barred list and/or adults’ barred list, depending on the role.
Enhanced DBS checks are typically required for professionals who work with children or vulnerable adults, where safeguarding is an important part of the role.
Only certain roles qualify for an Enhanced DBS check under DBS eligibility rules.
Which DBS Check Do I Need?
In many cases, the type of DBS check required will depend on the type of work you carry out.
A Basic DBS check is usually suitable for general self-employed work where there is no regulated activity with vulnerable groups.
An Enhanced DBS check may be required if your role involves working with children or vulnerable adults, particularly where safeguarding responsibilities are involved.
If you are providing healthcare, or supervising vulnerable adults and/or children, then it is likely that you will need an Enhanced DBS check.
Self-Employed DBS Checks FAQ
Can a self-employed person get a DBS check?
Yes. Self-employed individuals can apply for a Basic or Enhanced DBS check for themselves.
Can I apply for an Enhanced DBS check myself?
Yes, you can apply for an Enhanced DBS check by yourself, through an organisation such as Self Employed DBS Checks. To apply for an Enhanced DBS check, you must be legally eligible for it.
How long does a DBS check take?
The application form on Self Employed DBS Checks takes less than 10 minutes to complete. Once it is sent to the DBS, Basic results are usually back within a few hours. Enhanced DBS checks can take longer, however we see the majority completed within 10 working days.
What is the difference between a Basic and an Enhanced DBS check?
A Basic DBS check shows any unspent criminal convictions held against an individual.
An Enhanced DBS check provides a higher level of information, which can include spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings held on police records. It may also include checks of the children’s barred list and/or adults’ barred list, depending on the role.
Enhanced DBS checks are usually required for roles involving children or vulnerable adults.
Where can I apply for self-employed DBS checks?
You can apply for a Basic or Enhanced DBS check as a self-employed person through Self Employed DBS Check.