What is a DBS Route 2 ID check?

A DBS Route 2 check is an identity verification method used during a DBS application when an applicant cannot provide the required documents for Route 1, which is the preferred method. Route 2 involves providing a combination of documents that verify the applicant’s identity, followed by an external ID validation check conducted through a credit reference agency. This ensures that the applicant’s identity is verified accurately even if they do not have the standard documents typically required.

Eligibility for DBS Route 2 ID checks

We can process these checks for DBS applicants who can’t process applications through Route 1.

Our process

Our process is accessible and straightforward thanks to our bespoke system. As an umbrella body of the DBS, we provide a reliable and efficient service that can be tailored to your needs.

We go above and beyond to provide first-class customer care, and one-to-one expert advice is available every step of the way from our dedicated and accredited team.

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

To ensure efficiency, our team will use their expertise to check your applications. We will make sure the information is accurate and valid.

Receive your results

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

DBS Route 2 ID check pricing

Our competitive pricing ensures organisations 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 workforce.

No of Checks	Cost ex VAT	Cost inc VAT
Standard Rate	£9.17	£11.00
51 – 300	£7.92	£9.50
301 – 500	£6.67	£8.00
501 – 750	£5.63	£6.75
751 – 1000	£4.58	£5.50
1001+	£2.92	£3.50

Benefits of DBS Route 2 ID checks with us

Carrying out employment screening is important for safeguarding. We help you save time, money and resources. You’ll also enjoy a range of other benefits:

Safety
Make safer recruitment decisions and vet staff to a higher standard.

Trust
Build trust in your organisation and amongst your community.

Reassurance
Receive accurate reports and have peace of mind in your recruitment decisions.

Efficiency
Meet your resource demands with our fast-track vetting system.

Retention
Increase staff retention by appointing the right people in the right places.

Compliance
Receive advice to perform the right level of check and meet industry standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

DBS Route 2 Checks are required when an applicant cannot provide the necessary documents for a Route 1 check, which typically includes photographic ID and proof of address. Route 2 is used as an alternative method to verify identity using different combinations of documents and requires an external ID validation.

For a DBS Route 2 Check, the applicant must provide a combination of three documents: one document from Group 2a (such as a driving license or passport) and two documents from Group 2b (such as a utility bill, bank statement, or government-issued letter). These documents must be in the applicant’s current name and must include proof of address.

An external ID validation is a process used in Route 2 checks where an applicant’s identity is verified through a credit reference agency. The agency checks the applicant’s details against their records to confirm identity, using information such as credit history, address history, and other personal data.

If an applicant fails the external ID validation in a Route 2 Check, they cannot proceed with Route 2 and must use Route 3, which requires further document checks and possibly a fingerprint check at a local police station to verify their identity.

Yes, a credit check is part of the external ID validation process during a Route 2 Check. However, this is not a check of the applicant’s credit score or financial history; instead, it’s used to confirm identity by cross-referencing personal details with those held by the credit reference agency.