DBS Checks are background checks that look into a person’s criminal history. There are three levels of DBS Checks – Basic, Standard and Enhanced – and each has a different purpose. They help employers to make safer recruitment decisions and can prevent unsuitable people from coming into contact with vulnerable groups.

Who needs a DBS Check?

DBS Checks are a legal requirement for certain jobs. For example, people working in education, healthcare and social care require DBS Checks by law. There are also certain jobs in finance, law and veterinary care that also require DBS Checks.

Who can request a DBS Check?

Anyone can apply for a Basic DBS Check. However, employers are legally responsible for making sure a job role is eligible for a Standard DBS Check or an Enhanced DBS Check. You must select the relevant workforce during an application for a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check and have permission from the applicant or employee.

Who processes DBS Checks?

DBS Checks are processed by the Disclosure and Barring Service, previously known as the Criminal Records Bureau. Employers can be based in Scotland but employees must be based in England or Wales. Disclosure Scotland, an executive agency of the Scottish Government, provide the service in Scotland.

What's the difference between Basic, Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks?

Basic DBS Checks can be obtained for anyone; whereas Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks can only be obtained for certain roles.

How do I know what level of DBS Checks I need?

If you’ve checked the DBS eligibility criteria and you’re still unsure, contact us and we will be on hand to help. We can give you expert advice on guidance so you apply for the DBS Check you need.

How old do I need to be for a DBS Check?

The minimum age for a DBS Check is 16 years old.

Am I eligible to apply for a DBS Check?

There is no eligibility requirement for a Basic DBS check. However, the UK Government publishes guidance and has tools for you to see if you’re eligible for a Standard or Enhanced DBS Check. If you’ve seen these resources and you’re still unsure, contact us and our team will be on hand to help.

How do I spot a fraudulent DBS provider?

All trusted DBS providers will be listed on the DBS’ Umbrella Body directory. Before choosing your provider, make sure to check they’re listed on the directory first. Also, companies register as Umbrella Bodies of the DBS should normally highlight the accreditation on their website.

What are DBS ID checking guidelines?

The DBS ID Checking guidelines are published here. They outline how applicants are required to provide a range of ID documents as part of the DBS check application process. Employers must follow the three routes for ID checking and follow the guidelines carefully.

How much does a DBS Check cost?

Prices vary for every type of check and this is clearly marked on our webpages. Volume-based pricing is available and all costs you see on our website include VAT and fees. There are no hidden costs, such as setup or annual renewal fees.

What is regulated activity?

Regulated activity is work that a barred person must not do, outlined in the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act 2006 and amended by the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012. The DBS publishes guidance to determine what counts as regulated activity but there’s no definitive list.

What workforce should I select for a DBS Check?

Applications for Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks must select a workforce and applications can’t be processed if that information isn’t included. There are three options to choose – Child workforce, Adult workforce or Other workforce. You can select Child and Adult workforce if the job includes work with both. The term ‘Other’ doesn’t have specified criteria but it’s for roles that don’t include working with children or vulnerable adults.

What are the DBS Barred list?

The DBS Barred Lists include the Children’s Barred List and the Adults’ Barred List. These are commonly used in vetting checks to ensure someone isn’t barred from working with a vulnerable group, such as children or vulnerable adults.

What is the DBS Update Service?

The DBS Update Service is a paid-for annual subscription that enables applicants and employees to keep their DBS certificates up to date and employers to check the status of DBS certificates. The service is for Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks only.

Can I start work without a DBS Check?

If an Adult First Check returns a clear result, applicants are permitted to start work or training with vulnerable adults before they have a DBS Certificate. However, this is only used in exceptional circumstances. Employers must be take care in their decision making and ensure safeguarding measures are put in place.

How long does a DBS Check last?

There’s no expiry date for a DBS Certificate. However, the DBS suggest a renewal is carried out every three years. In some cases, that can differ according to an employer’s best practice or regulations set by external regulators.

Can I appeal the results of a DBS Check?

Appeals can be made to the DBS if an applicant has been mistakenly included on lists to be barred from certain roles or if a mistake has been made on a DBS Check. Appeals can be made by individual applicants or by their employers if they have permission from the applicant.

From 2002 to 2012, Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Checks were used to search for an applicant’s criminal history on the Police National Computer. These checks were then replaced by DBS Checks when the CRB merged with the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) to form the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), under the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012. CRB Checks are no longer a valid safeguarding measure, even if some people still hold a CRB certificate.

How do I contact the DBS?

You can email the DBS at customerservices@dbs.gov.uk or call their helpline on 03000 200 190. For more information, visit: www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service

How do I track my DBS applications?

You can track your DBS applications using your dashboard. To do this, simply access your Existing Applications, open the Processing at DBS table and click on their DBS tracking number (in the View column). You will then need to click Track Progress to be redirected to the DBS’ tracking page. Once on the tracking page, you will be able to view the stage the application is on and the dates the application progressed to each stage. If any of your applications are taking longer than expected, please contact one of our advisors who will be able to look into this further. Please note: The DBS will allow for an application to be escalated, if an application has been in Stage four for 60+ days. Our advisors will manage and monitor your applications to ensure any applications which reach this deadline are escalated immediately and prevent further delays.

DBS Checks for Drivers - Taxi, Private Hire, Buses & More

Name: DBS Checks for Drivers
Brand: Checks Direct
SKU: dcfd
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.7 (51 reviews)

Which drivers need a DBS check?

According to the Department for Transport’s statutory guidance, all taxi and private hire drivers must obtain an Enhanced DBS check as a mandatory component of their licence application process. Licensing authorities are responsible for verifying that each driver has provided an Enhanced DBS Certificate, without which the issuance of a licence is prohibited. Drivers in various other capacities and work settings may be subject to DBS checks to ensure the safety and well-being of the public.

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DBS checks for taxi drivers

Taxi drivers are required to complete an Enhanced DBS check with a check of the barred lists as part of their licensing application.

DBS checks for PCO

An Enhanced DBS check is a mandatory prerequisite for acquiring a PCO licence, which applies to various types of private hire drivers.

DBS checks for private hire drivers

Private hire drivers must provide an enhanced DBS check, which includes a check of the barred lists, in order to be licensed.

DBS checks for delivery drivers

Delivery drivers are eligible for Basic DBS checks as they have minimal contact with the public but are responsible for goods.

DBS checks for bus & coach drivers

In the UK, bus and coach drivers are required to complete a basic DBS check as part of the hiring process.

DBS checks for school bus drivers

School bus drivers are expected to undergo an Enhanced DBS and Children’s Barred List check before they can begin their role.

DBS checks for NHS medicine delivery drivers

NHS medicine delivery drivers typically require an Enhanced DBS check with both Adults' and Children's Barred List checks.

What does an Enhanced DBS check for drivers show?

There are three levels of DBS checks:

Basic checks: Unspent Convictions, Conditional Cautions.
Standard checks: Spent and Unspent Convictions, Cautions, Reprimands, Final Warnings.
Enhanced checks: Spent and Unspent Convictions, Cautions, Reprimands, Final Warnings, any other police information deemed relevant.

All taxi and private hire drivers have to complete an Enhanced DBS check with a check of the Children’s and Adults’ barred lists. This is also the case for any drivers that may have contact with vulnerable individuals, such as school bus drivers. A basic test is usually sufficient for bus and delivery drivers.

Our DBS check process for driving jobs

Our process is designed to be straightforward, accessible, and personalised. As an umbrella body of the DBS, we offer a reliable and efficient service that can be customised to meet the specific requirements of driving professionals.

Our accredited DBS team is committed to exceeding your expectations. We provide expert guidance at every stage, ensuring a seamless DBS check process and the highest level of safety and compliance for your driving roles.

Get started

Register easily online for free

You can set up an account in a matter of minutes, submit applications on our user-friendly portal, and manage checks on your dashboard.

Apply for checks

Our expert team thoroughly reviews each application, verifying all information for accuracy and validity to maximise efficiency throughout the DBS check process.

Receive your results

You will be notified when the results are ready. Our fast turnaround provides confirmation of your checks and peace of mind.

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Driver DBS check pricing

Our competitive pricing ensures operators in the driving industry can maintain regulatory compliance and operational integrity without excessive costs. We offer transparent, cost-effective rates with no hidden fees, enabling you to conduct all necessary checks efficiently across your entire fleet and workforce.

Basic DBS checks

No of Checks	Cost ex VAT	Cost inc VAT
Standard Rate	£30.50	£33.00
51 – 300	£29.67	£32.00
301 – 500	£28.67	£30.80
501 – 750	£27.50	£29.40
751 – 1000	£26.17	£27.80
1001+	£24.25	£25.50

Standard DBS checks

No of Checks	Cost ex VAT	Cost inc VAT
Standard Rate	£31.33	£34.00
51 – 300	£30.50	£33.00
301 – 500	£29.25	£31.50
501 – 750	£27.17	£29.00
751 – 1000	£25.08	£26.50
1001+	£23.42	£24.50

Enhanced DBS checks

No of Checks	Cost ex VAT	Cost inc VAT
Standard Rate	£52.17	£55.00
51 – 300	£47.17	£49.00
301 – 500	£46.96	£48.75
501 – 750	£46.13	£47.75
751 – 1000	£44.04	£45.25
1001+	£43.00	£44.00

Apply for DBS checks

Choosing Checks Direct for transport job DBS checks

Our expertise ensures that driving professionals and organisations meet their regulatory obligations while maintaining a secure and compliant operational environment. We’re proud to have assisted nearly 5,000 satisfied clients, processing over 100,000 DBS and other background checks annually.

Our streamlined online services help you save time, money, and resources, while offering benefits responding to the unique needs of the driving industry

Passenger & road safety

Implement thorough vetting practices to safeguard passengers, other road users, and the public from potential risks associated with drivers’ backgrounds.

Trust & industry reputation

Build trust with passengers, clients, and regulatory bodies by maintaining transparent and reliable hiring processes that meet the highest standards in recruitment.

Quality assurance

Gain peace of mind knowing that background checks are conducted professionally and securely, adhering to driving industry standards and best practices.

Operational reliability

Meet your staffing needs quickly and efficiently with our fast-track vetting system, ensuring uninterrupted transport services and maintaining appropriate driver levels at all times.

Driver retention

Improve staff retention by hiring the right drivers for the right roles, reducing turnover and associated costs while maintaining high-quality transportation services.

Regulatory compliance

Receive expert guidance to perform the appropriate checks and ensure compliance with licensing requirements, and other regulatory standards in the driving sector.

FAQs

DBS checks are accurate up to the point of issue, and therefore companies in the driving industry should request new checks periodically (typically every three years) or subscribe to the DBS Update Service. This allows employers to see if there have been any changes to a certificate, ensuring that their employees maintain the necessary level of clearance to work in the driving industry. In many local authorities, taxi and private hire drivers are required to renew their DBS checks every 1 to 3 years, as stipulated by local licensing regulations.

This depends on the nature of the work as a driver. Typically, a Basic DBS check is sufficient for bus, coach and delivery drivers, and an Enhanced DBS and barred list check is required for taxi and private hire drivers.

For certain driving roles it is not illegal to work without a DBS check, but for most passenger-carrying roles a DBS check is required. This includes, taxi drivers, private hire drivers (e.g. Uber or Lyft), school bus drivers, drivers for community transport services for vulnerable people. These roles tend to require an Enhanced DBS and barred list checks.

No, a DBS check is more general, while a barred list check is a specific component of an Enhanced DBS check. Standard and Basic DBS checks do not include barred list checks. A barred list check is required for people who work closely with children or vulnerable adults.

A DBS check and a CRB check are the same. In 2012 the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) merged under the Protection of Freedoms Act to form ‘The Disclosure and Barring Service’.

Currently, Transport for London DBS checks are only administered through the official provider GBGroup.

No, in most cases, if a role requires a DBS check, drivers cannot start working before the results have come back.

While a criminal record doesn’t automatically prohibit anyone from becoming a private hire driver, certain offences, especially those related to violence, sexual misconduct, dishonesty, or driving, should usually disqualify them. The licensing authority will assess each case individually, considering the nature of the conviction, its relevance to the role, the time elapsed, and evidence of rehabilitation.

A PCO licence (Private Hire Driver licence) is a licence issued by Transport for London which allows you to legally work as a private hire driver in London, including for companies like Uber. An Enhanced DBS check and barred lists check is required in order to obtain a PCO licence.

Yes, Checks Direct offers quick and easy DBS check applications using our online portal. Simply register for an account and apply for the checks your business requires.