How long does a DBS check take?
There is no guaranteed DBS turnaround time. How long a check takes depends on the level, how quickly identity is verified, whether the details are correct, and — for Enhanced checks — how long a police force needs. Anyone promising a guaranteed timescale should be treated with caution.
This guidance is maintained by the Complys team and reviewed against the primary DBS / GOV.UK sources listed above (last reviewed 24 September 2026). It is general information, not legal advice, and DBS rules can change — always confirm against the official sources.
What affects the time, by level
| Level | Typical speed & why |
|---|---|
| Basic | Usually the quickest — no check with local police forces |
| Standard | Checks national police records; generally quicker than Enhanced |
| Enhanced | Can take longer — adds local police information and, where relevant, a barred-list check [GOV.UK] |
The delays you can avoid
Most avoidable delay happens before the DBS even begins processing: an incomplete application, errors in names or address history, or a failed identity check. [GOV.UK] Getting the details right and verifying identity properly the first time is the single biggest thing within your control. Enhanced checks can then take additional time if a police force needs longer to decide what, if anything, to disclose — which is outside anyone’s control.
While you wait
Whether someone can start before the certificate is issued depends on the role, the organisation’s risk assessment and any sector rules — it is a safeguarding decision, not a blanket rule. The applicant can track progress online using the application reference. For roles checked repeatedly, the Update Service can remove the wait next time by allowing an online status check.
Not sure which level applies?
Our free DBS eligibility guidance checker walks you through the official criteria and points you to the guidance to confirm against. It is guidance, not a legal determination.
Open the DBS eligibility checker →Where Complys fits
Complys does not submit or process DBS checks. It helps you keep track of checks in progress and completed against each worker, so nothing is forgotten while you wait and rechecks are planned in good time (see DBS record keeping & compliance).
FAQs
How long does a DBS check take?
There is no guaranteed turnaround. A Basic check is usually the quickest because it does not involve a check with local police forces; Enhanced checks can take longer because they include police information and, where relevant, a barred-list check. Timescales vary case by case, so treat any quoted average as indicative, not a promise.
Why is my DBS check taking so long?
The most common avoidable causes are an incomplete application, mistakes in personal details or address history, and a failed or delayed identity verification. Enhanced checks can also take longer if a police force needs more time to consider whether to disclose information. Correct details and verified identity are the biggest things within your control.
Can you start work while waiting for a DBS check?
Sometimes, depending on the role and the organisation's risk assessment and policy — for example with appropriate supervision — but for some roles this is not appropriate and sector rules may prevent it. This is a decision for the employer based on safeguarding, not a blanket yes or no. Confirm against the rules for the role.
Does paying more make a DBS check faster?
The DBS fee is fixed per level. A provider may offer to submit an application quickly or chase it, but no one can guarantee how long the DBS and police forces take to process it. Beware anyone promising a guaranteed turnaround.
How do I track a DBS application?
The DBS provides an online tracking service using the application reference so the applicant can see the stage it has reached. The employer typically sees the outcome once the certificate is issued to the applicant.
Related DBS guides
- Which DBS check do I need?Basic, Standard, Enhanced or Enhanced with a barred-list check? Eligibility depends on the role's actual duties, setting and regulated-activity status — not the job title. A UK employer guide.
- DBS check cost & feesDBS check fees and who pays: the Basic, Standard and Enhanced fees (reduced from 5 October 2026), the Update Service subscription, why volunteer checks are free, and the administration fee that Registered and umbrella bodies may add on top of the DBS fee.
- DBS checks for employersHow UK employers establish eligibility, request the correct level of DBS check through the proper route, check identity, handle certificates lawfully and keep safer-recruitment records.
Official sources and further guidance
- Check someone's criminal record — types of check you can make — GOV.UK
- DBS eligibility guidance — GOV.UK / Disclosure and Barring Service
- Handling of DBS certificate information — GOV.UK / Disclosure and Barring Service
This guidance is maintained by the Complys team and reviewed against the primary DBS / GOV.UK sources listed above (last reviewed 24 September 2026). It is general information, not legal advice, and DBS rules can change — always confirm against the official sources.