ID for DBS Checks
When applying for a DBS check, one of the most important steps is confirming the applicant’s identity.
Getting the ID for DBS check wrong is one of the most common reasons for delays in getting the application processed, as it can be a little complicated.
In this guide, we explain exactly what ID for DBS check applications is required, how the process works for Basic, Standard, and Enhanced checks, and how organisations can simplify identity verification using Digital ID checks.
The 3 Route ID Checking Process
Depending on the documents you have available will affect the ID needed for the DBS check. These three routes are outlined below.
For a Basic DBS check, only Route 1 and 2 and be used. For Standard or Enhanced, any three of the below routes can be taken.
Route 1
This is the fastest, and easiest way. The applicant must be able to show:
- one document from Group 1, below
- two further documents from either Group 1, or Group 2a, or 2b, below
The combination of documents presented must confirm the applicant’s name and date of birth.
For Basic DBS application, only one further document from either Group 1, or Group 2a, or 2b is required.
Route 2
Route 2 can only be used if it’s impossible to process the application through Route 1. The ID for DBS check that can be used remains the same.
The organisation conducting the ID check must then also use an appropriate external ID verification service to check the application.
If the applicant doesn’t have any of the documents in Group 1, then they must be able to show:
- one document from Group 2a
- two further documents from either Group 2a or 2b
The combination of documents presented must confirm the applicant’s name and date of birth.
An External ID Check must also be done – this can be done through Faster DBS. If completing a Basic DBS check, the External ID Check is not required.
Route 3
Route 3 can only be used if it’s impossible to process the application through Routes 1 or 2. The ID for DBS check that can be used remains the same.
For Route 3, the applicant must be able to show:
- a birth certificate issued more than 12 months after the time of birth (UK, Isle of Man and Channel Islands)
- one document from Group 2a
- three further documents from Group 2a or 2b
The combination of documents presented must confirm the applicant’s name and date of birth.
If these ID documents can’t be provided, fingerprinting via a paper DBS application may be required.
Route 3 cannot be used for Basic DBS Checks.
Group 1: Primary Identity Documents
These documents are required to prove an identity.
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport | Any current and valid passport. A UK passport can be expired up to a maximum of 6 months. |
| e-Visa | Accessed via the ‘View and Prove’ service. The share code requested must be an immigration status share code. |
| Biometric residence permit (BRP) | UK. Can be used up to 18 months after expiry if showing Indefinite Leave to Remain, Indefinite Leave to Enter or No Time Limit. |
| Application Registration Card (ARC) | Issued by the Home Office. Must be checked against the Home Office Employer Checking Service. |
| Current driving licence photocard (full or provisional) | UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands. Paper counterparts are no longer valid. |
| Birth certificate (issued within 12 months of birth) | UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands. Must be the original certificate. |
| Adoption certificate | UK and Channel Islands. |
Group 2a: Trusted Government Documents
As of April 2025, documents do not need to show the applicant’s current address, apart from the paper driving licence.
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Current driving licence photocard (full or provisional) | Issued outside the UK (excluding Isle of Man and Channel Islands). |
| Current driving licence (full or provisional) | UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands. Paper licences must be issued before March 2000. |
| Birth certificate (issued more than 12 months after birth) | UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands. |
| Marriage or civil partnership certificate | UK and Channel Islands. |
| Immigration document, visa, or work permit | Issued outside the UK. Valid only for roles where the applicant is living and working outside the UK. |
| HM Forces ID card | UK. |
| Firearms licence | UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands. |
Group 2b: Financial and Social History Documents
As of April 2025, documents do not need to show the applicant’s current address, apart from the paper driving licence.
| Document | Notes | Issue Date & Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Mortgage statement | UK | Issued in last 12 months |
| Bank or building society statement | UK and Channel Islands | Issued in last 3 months |
| Utility bill (not mobile phone) | UK | Issued in last 3 months |
| Benefit statement (for example Child Benefit or pension) | UK | Issued in last 12 months |
| HMRC self-assessment or tax demand letter | UK | Issued in last 12 months |
| EHIC or GHIC | UK | Must still be valid |
| Irish Passport Card | Cannot be used with an Irish passport | Must still be valid |
| PASS accredited card | UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands | Must still be valid |
Making ID for DBS Checks Easier with Digital ID
Manually checking ID for a DBS check can be time-consuming, especially when applicants are remote, working different hours, or based across multiple locations. Digital ID checks remove much of this friction and help organisations move applications forward faster.
With Digital ID, the ID for DBS check verification is completed entirely online. Applicants can use their smartphone or computer to:
- Upload their identity documents securely
- Complete biometric verification, such as a selfie or short video
- Have documents automatically checked for validity and authenticity
This significantly reduces human error, prevents common ID mistakes, and helps DBS applications progress without unnecessary delays.
ID for DBS Checks Through Faster DBS
Faster DBS offers Digital ID checks that are fully integrated with DBS applications. This removes the need for organisations to physically view original documents and speeds up the entire DBS process.
All identity verification follows official DBS guidance and UK GDPR requirements. Proof of ID checks is securely stored and available for audit purposes, giving organisations confidence that checks have been completed correctly and compliantly.
Final Thoughts on ID for DBS Checks
Getting the ID for a DBS check right is essential for avoiding delays, preventing rejections, and staying compliant with DBS rules. Whether you are submitting a single DBS check or managing checks across an entire organisation, understanding the ID requirements makes a significant difference.
Digital ID checks remove much of the complexity involved in identity verification and help ensure DBS applications are completed correctly the first time, allowing certificates to be processed faster.
Frequently Asked Questions About ID for DBS Checks
What ID is required for a DBS check?
For a DBS check, applicants must provide original identity documents that confirm their name, date of birth, and address. This typically includes a primary identity document such as a passport or driving licence, along with supporting documents such as a bank statement, utility bill, or other approved paperwork.
The exact ID for a DBS check depends on which route is considered valid based on the documents available.
Does ID for a DBS check need to show a current address?
As of April 2025, most documents used as ID for a DBS check do not need to show the applicant’s current address. The only exception is a paper driving licence, which must display the correct and current address.
If the documents provided do not show the current address, it is the organisation’s responsibility to ensure the address entered on the DBS application form is accurate.
Is the ID for a DBS check the same for all DBS levels?
Yes. The ID requirements for a DBS check are the same for Basic, Standard, and Enhanced DBS checks.
The only difference is that a Basic DBS check requires one fewer supporting document compared to Standard and Enhanced DBS checks.
Can I use expired documents as ID for a DBS check?
Only a UK passport can be used if it is expired, and even then, it must have expired no more than six months ago.
All other documents used as ID for a DBS check must be current and valid at the time of verification.
Does ID need to be checked in person for a DBS check?
No, ID does not always need to be checked in person. Identity verification can be completed either face to face or through an approved Digital ID check.
Digital ID allows applicants to verify their identity online, which is often quicker and more convenient. If documents are checked manually, they must be seen before the applicant starts work.
Is Digital ID accepted by the DBS?
Yes. Digital ID checks are accepted by the DBS when they are completed in line with official DBS identity checking guidelines.
Many organisations now use Digital ID to reduce delays, prevent errors, and speed up DBS applications.
Do you store proof of ID checks?
Yes. When using Employment Tools, proof of ID verification is securely stored alongside the DBS application.
This supports compliance, audit requirements, and record keeping, giving organisations confidence that ID checks have been completed correctly.