How to Get an Ehanced DBS: Step by Step Guide

If you want a cleaning job or a facilities job in a school, hospital, or care home, you will need an Enhanced DBS check. This is one of the first things an employer will ask for.

This guide explains it in simple steps: who needs one, how to apply, which documents to bring, how much it costs, and how long it takes.

Step 1: Check If You Need One

Not every cleaning job needs an Enhanced DBS check. You will usually need one if:

• You work in a school, hospital, or care home
• You are often alone near children or vulnerable adults
• Your job means you could have contact with them, even if cleaning is your only task

Simple rule: If you work in these places often, you probably need one.

What is the "Barred List"?

Sometimes your DBS check also includes a Barred List check. This is only needed if your job involves close, personal contact like helping with care, not just cleaning.

• A school cleaner working alone may need the Children's Barred List
• A care home cleaner who only cleans (no personal care) may not need the Adults' Barred List

Your employer or agency will tell you which one applies. You do not need to work this out yourself.

Step 2: Find Out How to Apply

There are two ways to apply.

Option A: Your Employer Applies for You (Most Common)

If you are employed by a company or agency:

1. They apply for your DBS check
2. You give your personal details
3. You confirm your identity (see documents below)
4. They receive the certificate

This is the easiest way. Most of the work is done for you.

Option B: You Are Self-Employed

If you work for yourself, you cannot apply directly to the DBS. You must:

1. Use a registered umbrella body (a company that helps self-employed workers apply)
2. They check if your job qualifies
3. They submit your application for you

Good to Know: DBS Update Service

Once you get your certificate, you can join the DBS Update Service.

• Costs £16 per year
• You must join within 30 days of getting your certificate
• Future employers can check your certificate online, instantly
• You may not need a new DBS check every time you change jobs

Tip: This saves you time and money in the future. Sign up as soon as you get your certificate.

Step 3: Get Your Documents Ready

This is where most people get delayed. Bring the right documents, and make sure they are real, original copies — not photocopies.

You Need At Least ONE of These (Group 1 Documents):

✅ Valid passport (any country) 
✅ UK photocard driving licence 
✅ Biometric residence permit

Important: Copies are NOT accepted. Bring the real document.

Using the Post Office to Verify Your ID?

If you check your ID at the Post Office, bring:

• 1 document from the list above, PLUS
• 2supporting documents, such as:
  • Bank statement (recent)
  • Payslip
  • Utility bill
  • Letter from the government
  • NHS card or letter

Before your appointment: Double-check your documents are not expired. This is the #1 reason applications get delayed.

Step 4: Know the Cost and Timing

How Much Does It Cost?

How Long Does It Take?

• Most checks: 12–14 days
• Some checks: Up to 20 working days
• Complex checks: Up to 8 weeks (rare)

Why the delay? Sometimes the police need extra time to check records. This can take longer if:

• You've lived in more than one police area
• Your application has missing information

Apply as early as possible. Don't wait until the last minute before your start date.

Quick Checklist Before You Apply

Use this checklist to make sure you're ready:

•  I know if my job needs a DBS check
•  I know if my job needs a Barred List check
•  I have a valid passport, UK driving licence, or biometric permit
•  If using the Post Office, I have 2 extra supporting documents
•  My documents are not expired
•  I know the cost (£49.50 + any extra fees)
•  I have applied at least 4 weeks before my start date

What Employers Want to See

Before your first day, most employers will ask for:

1. Your Enhanced DBS certificate
2. Proof you have the right to work in the UK

Tip: If you're already on the DBS Update Service, this makes things faster. Your new employer can check your certificate online, no waiting for a new one.

Need Help? Daniel Owen Can Support You

Getting a DBS check right the first time helps you start work faster.

Daniel Owen helps cleaners and FM workers with:

• Right-to-work checks
• DBS applications and advice
• Understanding which documents you need
• Support through the whole process

Get in touch with Daniel Owen today to find out more.