How Long Does a DBS Check Take in 2026?
If you need a DBS check, one of the first questions you will have is: how long will this take? The answer depends on which level of check you need. Here is a clear breakdown for 2026.
Basic DBS Check: 2 to 5 Working Days
A Basic DBS check is the quickest. It only searches the Police National Computer for unspent convictions and conditional cautions. Results come back fast, usually within 2 to 5 working days. Basic checks are used for general employment, landlord references, or self-employed individuals working with the public.
Standard DBS Check: 5 to 10 Working Days
A Standard DBS check searches both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and final warnings. It takes slightly longer, typically 5 to 10 working days. Standard checks are required for solicitors, barristers, and certain financial services positions.
Enhanced DBS Check: 2 to 8 Weeks
Enhanced DBS checks take significantly longer, anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks. This is the level that catches most people off guard.
Why Does Enhanced Take So Much Longer?
An Enhanced DBS check includes everything in a Standard check, plus a check of the DBS barred lists and a local police force check. The DBS sends your application to your local police force, and each force reviews its local intelligence records. There is no fixed turnaround time as forces vary in workload and staffing. If you have lived at multiple addresses, each relevant police force must be contacted separately, which adds more time.
Enhanced checks are required for teachers, childminders, nannies, social workers, NHS staff with patient contact, and prison officers.
How to Speed Up Your Enhanced DBS Check
Apply through a registered umbrella body rather than paper forms. Ensure all address history going back 5 years is accurate and complete. Check your application carefully for errors before submission.
The DBS Update Service
If you need DBS checks regularly, the DBS Update Service costs 16 pounds per year and lets employers check your certificate status online instantly, so you may not need a new check every time you change jobs.
Get Your DBS Check at DBS4U
At DBS4U we specialise in helping individuals and organisations get Enhanced DBS checks as quickly as possible. We work with registered umbrella bodies to process applications efficiently. Visit www.dbschecks4u.co.uk to get started today.