For many companiesDBSare essential to their functioning, which means that the DBS check cost is an important factor. Whether it's the job role that involves handling sensitive data, vulnerability support, or the company just wants some peace of mind when making a hiring decision, DBS checks are important to the company, its employees, and customers.
Businesses shouldn't overpay for their DBS applications if they don't have to, especially if they have a large amount to apply for, as the cost of the DBS exam can quickly add up!
As an employer, you may not be able to avoid getting a DBS check, but you can avoid overpaying for it! As an employer, you will need to contact an umbrella organization (a company that will process, review and submit the DBS application), so it's best to find one that doesn't try to do as much for you as possible.
In this article, we'll break down what you're paying for in a DBS check, how much a DBS check should actually be, and where's the best place to get it.

DBS fee from the government
The first cost that will be part of your DBS check application are the government imposed fees, which will vary depending on the DBS level requested.
The government fees are as follows:
Basic DBS Check Cost: £18
Standard DBS check cost: £18
Extended DBS Check Cost: £38
As mentioned, this fee is imposed by the UK government and is unavoidable (unless it is a volunteer).
You should not be charged more than the above rates for the State DBS Fee. Over the years, many companies are happy to add a few extra pounds to these costs in order to make a little extra money from their customers. A smart business move or just greedy? You decide. In addition to these costs, there are also smaller management fees that are separate, although we'll get to those in a moment.
Just make sure you don't pay more than you should for the DBS fee set by the government.
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DBS check costs for volunteers
If a volunteer requires a standard or advanced check, they do not have to pay the DBS check fee – that is, only the administration fee is paid.

Management fee from the umbrella organization
The management fee is the fee that an umbrella organization charges you for using their services, such as B. their online system, customer support and countersigning your request before sending it to the Disclosure and Blocking Service.
It is understandable why umbrella organizations charge an administration fee as developing an online DBS system takes time and effort. However, some sites are not afraid to take advantage of this and charge high fees for using their service. If you're not careful and don't hunt around, the DBS Check cost you end up paying can be double or even triple what it should actually cost!
A quick search online shows administration fees ranging from just a few euros to over £30 per application - remember this is on top of the DBS check cost (fee)!
Will the DBS applications company charging £30 be able to add enough value to make it worth the high price? No!
After all, you want support from an experienced team that will process your application professionally and forward it to the Disclosure and Blocking Service as quickly as possible. Some have been known to charge extra for an "express" service, where you have to pay more money to have your application reviewed and submitted a little faster.
As each DBS exam can be just as important, you shouldn't be charged extra for this and reputable governing bodies should countersign all applications the same day they receive them!
Avoid DBS registration fees
Registration fees are one of the biggest cons out there!
If a governing body asks you to pay an application fee, ask yourself why.
Is there a good reason you're being charged for entering your details and getting into the system? 9 times out of 10 there is no good reason, it's just a method to get more money out of you and keep you locked into their system.
If you've paid to use a system, you're much less likely to go elsewhere, even if it's cheaper.
Anyone in business should be more than happy for you to use their service and will definitely not charge you for the pleasure of signing up.

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Where can you get the cheapest DBS checks?
Just because a company is high in Google rankings doesn't mean it offers the best value for money!
Below are some examples of the prices charged by other organizations as well as our own.
To avoid any embarrassment that might arise in this comparison, we've omitted the names of the companies, but a quick search on Google will bring them up.
All prices are based on the cost of applying for a single DBS check, with the administration fee in bold. This is your cost of running the check and is separate from the set government price.
Competitor 1
Basic DBS check: £18 what a£10.40 administration fee
Standard-DBS-Check: £18 what a£10.40 administration fee
Improved DBS check: £38 what a£10.40 administration fee
Competitor 2
Basic DBS check: £18 what a£12 + VAT administration fee
Standard-DBS-Check: £18 what a£12 + VAT administration fee
Improved DBS check: £38 what a£12 + VAT administration fee
Aaron's department (This is us!)
Basic DBS check: £18with an administration fee of £4.95 + VAT
Standard-DBS-Check: £18with an administration fee of £7.95 + VAT
Improved DBS check: £38with an administration fee of £9.95 + VAT
Competitor 3
Basic DBS check: £18 what a£20.99 administration fee
Standard-DBS-Check: £18 what a£29.99 administration fee
Improved DBS check: £38 what a£24.99 administration fee
That's quite a price difference for the same work! While it's impossible to comment on the experience and speed of the competitors, they all offer essentially the same service but charge more for the privilege!
Register with Aaron's department

Summary: How much does a DBS check cost?
Cost of a basic DBS check
At Aaron's Department, a basic check is only £22.95 (£18 government fee & £4.95 + VAT administration fee) but this can be further reduced by using oursFree admin credit.
Cost of a standard DBS check
We offer standard DBS checks at £25.95 (£18 government fee & £7.95 + VAT administration fee) but they can be reduced further by using oursFree admin credit program.
Costs for an extended DBS check
You can get an enhanced DBS check from Aaron's Department for £47.95 (£38 Government Fee & £9.95 + VAT Admin Fee) but this can be reduced further using oursFree admin credit program.
Honest DBS cost review with Aaron's department
Over many years we have focused heavily on developing and improving our online system around the customers using our service to ensure we can offer a user-friendly and affordable service.
Because of this and the experience of our team, there is no need to charge excessive fees. We believe that nobody should be forced into a long-term commitment, which is why we have no signup fees, contracts or hidden costs. We also do not charge any additional fees to have your DBS check countersigned and sent to the DBS service the same day you send it to us - this should be standard practice.
Just pay what you want and not a penny more!
If you would like to learn more about the service we offer at Aaron's Department, you can do so by reading ourDBS online application page.
If you don't use our online system and still want to submit paper DBS applications, don't worry! You can find more information on ourPricing page for paper applications.
Our team is available Monday to Friday from 8am to 5pm on 0113 877 0171 to help with any questions you may have.
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NEIL TUNSTALL
1 year ago
How much does an extended DBS check cost for one of my employees?
1
answer
Aaron's department
answer toNEIL TUNSTALL
1 year ago
Hello Neil,
Enhanced DBS checks cost £38 (government fee) plus £6.95 (administration fee).
You can read our prices here:https://www.aaronsdepartment.com/dbs-check/dbs-online-price.phpor call our team on 0113 877 0171 to speak to them!
2
answer
Magdalena Schmidt
1 month ago
Hallo
I am very frustrated with the matrix system, the government agency and those in power who dictate what we can and cannot do. Why Individuals Cannot Apply for an Extended DBS Check. Why does it have to be an organization, an umbrella organization? That doesn't make any sense either...
answer
John SA
Administrator
answer toMagdalena Schmidt
1 month ago
Hello Madeleine,
There are many complicated rules and procedures when it comes to DBS checks. Umbrella Bodies have already done all the hard work to understand these, which means others don't need to waste their time trying to do the same.
Imagine if anyone were allowed to apply for a DBS without properly understanding the rules - this would cause MASSIVE (and I mean MASSIVE!) delays for the DBS as it would have to reject and respond to thousands upon thousands of applications.
Umbrella organizations like us have used our knowledge by investing in the creation of a software application, which means that any errors that cause a DBS to be rejected are found before the application is submitted. When you have a team of experienced DBS checkers by your side, you can rest assured that you won't waste time or money.
answer
Alicia Barker
9 days ago
Are dbs checks cheaper for low performers?
answer
John SA
Administrator
answer toAlicia Barker
5 days ago
Hello Alice,
The price for a DBS check is the same for everyone.
answer
FAQs
What is the fee for a DBS check? ›
From 6 April 2022, the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) will be reducing the fees for DBS checks. The fee for the Update Service will remain the same, at £13 per year. Standard, Enhanced, and Enhanced with Barred Lists DBS checks for volunteer applications will remain free-of-charge.
Why do I have to pay for my DBS check? ›However, there is no legal requirement for employers to pay a DBS check fee. Sometimes, the applicant is responsible. Usually, the employer specifies who is accountable in the job description. Most employers who require several DBS checks will usually have an account with the DBS, so will front the cost.
Is a basic DBS check enough? ›A basic DBS check can be used for any position or purpose, however for certain roles, you may need a higher level of criminal record check. Find out if you need a basic DBS check or ask your employer if you're not sure.
What is the highest DBS check? ›- Basic DBS check.
- Standard DBS check.
- Enhanced DBS check.
- Enhanced with Barred List(s) DBS check.
- One document of identification, such as a passport or driving licence.
- One document that verifies your proof of address, which can be a utility bill, bank or credit card statement or driving licence (provided it shows your current address and has not been used as the ID document).
Prices - Online DBS Check for Single Applications
Our Prices are simple, clear and do not include any hidden charges. Type of DBS check: Standard level DBS check: £62. Enhanced level DBS: £82.
However, it is not possible to “fail” a DBS check (criminal record check), as all the DBS does is check your files and details, and return a certificate detailing any convictions – in other words, it's not a “pass or fail” test.
Do I have to agree to a DBS check? ›If a basic check is required, the employer can ask the individual to apply directly to DBS (if they work in England or Wales) or Disclosure Scotland (if they work in Scotland). Alternatively, the employer can carry out the check through a Responsible Organisation, if they have the applicant's consent.
What is the difference between basic and full DBS? ›The main difference between Standard and Basic DBS checks is that anyone can request a Basic DBS check, there are no legal requirements. Basic DBS checks can be requested by an individual applying for their own criminal record check.
How many documents do you need for DBS check? ›For the DBS ID checking process this means that just the driving licence photocard needs to be checked, unless an old style paper driving licence is produced (pre-1998). You can read about the DVLA changes in our news story.
What is a full DBS check? ›
Standard DBS check
This is a check of your criminal record which will show details of all spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings held on central police records (apart from protected convictions and cautions). Visit our full listing of Legal Terms.
Contrary to popular belief, DBS checks do not issue a pass or fail result. Instead, they detail aspects of the applicant's criminal record history in order for the employer to make the safest recruitment decision. The level of detail on the DBS certificate will depend on the level of the check.
How many years does DBS last? ›A DBS check has no official expiry date. Any information included will be accurate at the time the check was carried out. It's up to you to decide when a new check is needed.
How long does DBS take? ›It usually takes around 14 days but it can take longer if: the details given for the check are incorrect. several police forces need to be involved in the check.
What is the quickest way to get a DBS check? ›- Use an online system. ...
- Prepare information ahead of completing the form. ...
- Use a system that checks the form as you complete it. ...
- Use a company that submits applications quickly for you and offers DBS check tracking. ...
- Sign up to the DBS Update Service.
A DBS Check, also known as a Disclosure, will identify any convictions, cautions, final warnings or reprimands, relevant to the prospective employment and can also include intelligence from the police that may affect an individual's suitability for certain employment.
How much does a DBS cost 2023? ›Cost Of A Standard DBS Check
We offer Standard DBS checks for £25.95 (£18 Gov. fee & £7.95+VAT admin fee), but it can be reduced further by taking advantage of our Free Admin Credit scheme.
An enhanced DBS check has all the information contained in a standard DBS check. However, with an enhanced check, an employer can also request to see whether a potential or current employee is listed on the Children's Barred List or Adult First list.
Can I pay for my own enhanced DBS check? ›You can pay for a basic DBS check yourself or you can get someone to pay for you - for example, an employer or relative.
Do DBS make mistakes? ›You can raise a dispute with DBS if they make a mistake on a DBS check. The mistake or decision can be changed if the appeal or dispute is successful. An employer or licensing authority can also appeal a DBS check if they've talked to the applicant first.
Does a DBS check affect credit score? ›
Does a DBS check affect your credit score? No. The information that is likely to show up on a DBS certificate, like criminal records and fines, is not included in your credit history.
Does shoplifting show on DBS? ›The majority of theft convictions are eligible for filtering (removal) from a standard and enhanced DBS certificate, providing they did not result in a prison sentence or a suspended sentence. Without knowing the details of the Act you were convicted under, it's difficult for us to give you a definitive answer.
How many times can I do a DBS check? ›While official recommendations suggest a DBS should be renewed every three years, some organisations have set policies surrounding when they request rechecks. This timescale can vary from six months to every two years.
What does a basic DBS include? ›To find out whether your conviction is currently unspent, you can use our disclosure calculator. If you do have unspent convictions, the basic DBS check will give details of the date of conviction, the name of the court you appeared in, the offence committed, the date of the offence and the sentence received.
Can I refuse a basic DBS check? ›It is at the discretion of the applicant as to whether they show their DBS check to their employer. However, it is unlikely that the employer would make a recruitment decision without seeing the individual's certificate.
How far back does a basic DBS check go? ›How Far Back Does a Standard DBS Check Go? Standard DBS checks can go as far back as possible, as there is no limit. This is because they show everything a basic does, as well as both spent and unspent convictions.
Who needs a standard DBS check? ›Standard Check.
This type of check shows any spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings that you may have. Positions such as banking, law, accountancy and some administrative positions, such as those on medical premises, usually require standard checks.
In the most general terms, they are the sort of jobs involving caring for children, or for adults who could be termed vulnerable. So, people working in nurseries, schools, hospitals, and care homes will all require enhanced DBS checks. These rules also apply to volunteers in sports clubs or youth organisations.
Can you use two bank statements for DBS? ›Only one document from each of the subgroups in group 2 should be included in the document count e.g. do not accept two bank statements as two of the required documents, if they are from the same bank.
Can you use two bank statements DBS check? ›You can use more than one of these documents to carry out a check but remember that at least one document you bring must have your current address on it. We can only accept original documents for a DBS check – we can't accept photocopies, scans or print offs.
Do you have to send original documents for DBS check? ›
The other requirement for documents is that they must be originals. That means no photocopies, no printouts of a bill or statement you've received online, no scanned copies and no photocopies. Fraud can be a problem with DBS applications, and only asking for original documents can cut down on fake applications.
What is Stage 5 of a DBS check? ›Stage 5: DBS certificate printed
All the information to be disclosed on the DBS certificate is printed under highly-secure procedures, and posted to the applicant. The applicant will then need to show their DBS certificate to the employer who requested the DBS check.
If your lies are discovered before you start work, the employer will withdraw their offer of employment. If you've already starting work when they discover the truth, the most likely consequence is that you'll be dismissed immediately for gross misconduct.
What is the 3 month rule for DBS? ›Do I have to be DBS checked if I take a break of more than three months because of maternity, adoption, parental leave or sickness? A return to work after a period of statutory leave is not a new appointment, nor a break in service. Therefore, a DBS check is not required.
Is DBS covered by insurance? ›DBS is FDA-approved and covered by most health insurance companies. Some insurance companies require prior authorization before having surgery, and some do not fully understand DBS and may initially deny coverage.
How long does a DBS take 2023? ›It usually takes 14 days to process a DBS check. But it can take longer if: There are any incorrect details in the application. Several police forces need to be involved in the check.
How long does enhanced DBS take 2023? ›The time to receive an enhanced DBS certificate can take around 4-8 weeks. In rare circumstances, it can take longer than 8 weeks. There are many reasons for a DBS certificate delay. The most common reason is a backlog of applications held by local police authorities.
Why is DBS 2022 taking so long? ›Mistakes that cause delays include misspelt names, failure to disclose a recent name change and inaccurate address details. The only way you can avoid delays caused by this is to double-check that you have all required forms of ID on your person before starting your application.
How long does it take to get a DBS check? ›It usually takes 14 days to process a DBS check. But it can take longer if: You give any incorrect details for the check. Several police forces need to be involved in the check.
How long does DBS check last? ›A DBS check has no official expiry date. Any information included will be accurate at the time the check was carried out. It's up to you to decide when a new check is needed. If the applicant has signed up for the DBS update service you can check whether their certificate is up to date online.
How long does an enhanced DBS check take? ›
The completion time for an enhanced DBS check ranges from 24 hours to 14 days. The time to receive an enhanced DBS certificate can take around 4-8 weeks. In rare circumstances, it can take longer than 8 weeks. There are many reasons for a DBS certificate delay.
How long does a DBS check take 2023? ›It usually takes 14 days to process a DBS check. But it can take longer if: There are any incorrect details in the application. Several police forces need to be involved in the check.
What are the 5 stages of a DBS check? ›- Stage 1 – DBS Application Form. ...
- Stage 2 – The Police National Computer (PNC) Search. ...
- Stage 3 – Children's and Adults' Barred List Checks. ...
- Stage 4 – Enhanced DBS Goes to Your Local Police Force. ...
- Stage 5 – DBS Certificate Printed.
You can pay for a basic DBS check yourself or you can get someone to pay for you - for example, an employer or relative. You can pay with a debit or credit card. You can also use Google Pay or Apple Pay. If you pay the fee yourself, you need to pay it when you apply.
How far does a DBS check go back? ›How Far Back Does a Standard DBS Check Go? Standard DBS checks can go as far back as possible, as there is no limit. This is because they show everything a basic does, as well as both spent and unspent convictions.
Can I do enhanced DBS check myself? ›Details. Applicants (job candidates) can't do a criminal records check on themselves. You will need to get an application form from the employer who asked you for a DBS check.