Waiting for your DBS certificate can be a frustrating experience, especially when you need it to start a new job or volunteering role. Managing potential delays when applying for a criminal record check is not always something entirely within your control, but knowing the reasons for delay might arm you with the information needed to submit an application in the best shape possible and minimise the time you are waiting for that certificate to arrive in the post.
DBS Processing Times
The time it takes for a DBS check to be issued varies based on the level of check required. On average, a basic DBS check takes the shortest time, and you could be waiting on average 3 or 4 weeks for the most detailed enhanced disclosure checks to be completed. Processing times can vary across different areas of the country and there are some periods of the year which are busier than others.
The five stages of producing a DBS certificate are as follows:
- Application received and validated.
- Police National Computer (PNC) searched.
- Adults' and Children's Barred Lists checked (if requested).
- Search of records held by the police (enhanced checks only).
- DBS certificate printed.
Delays at Stage 4
If you track your DBS application online, you can see which stage your application is stuck at. The stage of checking which takes the longest is for level 4, which applies to enhanced disclosure checks needed for positions involving vulnerable groups. The DBS says that the most common reasons for delays at this stage of searching are:
- Multiple previous addresses – if someone has moved around a lot, this means more addresses to search through for the police staff member doing the checks.
- Passing the application to another LPF – again, if someone has moved between different police force areas, the searches will have to be carried out in more than one police office.
- Common names causing data verification challenges – the police need to be absolutely sure that they are carrying out searches on the right person, and this can be problematic if your name is something like Michael Smith or Emma Jones.
Avoiding Delays
The DBS has some advice to ensure a smooth process. People applying for a DBS check at any level are advised to:
- Disclose all names, including middle and previous names.
- List all previous addresses from the last 5 years including post codes.
- Double-check spelling as errors can cause confusion.
Tracking DBS Applications
Applicants can track their applications by logging into the DBS online tracking service using their reference number and date of birth. If you think your application is “stuck”, contact the DBS customer service line and ask for advice, although they can only give general guidance over the phone. If your application has been stuck at Stage 4 for 60 days or more, the DBS will get involved to confirm what is causing the delay, and to give advice on how to move the process forward and get your disclosure certificate.
