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The Global Insight

Can an employer request a DBS check?

Author

John Hall

Updated on March 20, 2026

Overview. An employer may request a DBS check as part of their recruitment process (previously known as CRB checks). These checks are processed by the Disclosure and Barring Service ( DBS ). When a check has been processed by DBS , a DBS certificate is produced and issued to the applicant.

Do I need to give permission for a CRB check?

No, your employer needs your consent to run a DBS check or any other check on you. There may of course be implications in refusing to give permission to your employer.

What is a CRB disclosure?

A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, once known as the CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check, is becoming more and more important when working within the Private Household industry. Majority of positions will request all candidates to have a valid DBS certificate before starting in the role.

Can my employer CRB check me?

As an applicant for a job, your potential employer is allowed to ask you to do a criminal record check before they employ you. However, under the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) an employer must have a lawful basis for carrying out a criminal record check and processing data relating to criminal convictions.

Can I refuse DBS check?

Employers are not allowed to do criminal records checks on whomever they choose, so should take your concerns seriously. Some however might just assume you have something to hide in refusing to have a DBS check carried out.

How far back does an enhanced DBS check go?

There is no limit to how far back an enhanced or standard check can go. For basic checks, only unspent convictions will be listed on a certificate.

What are the 3 types of DBS check?

There are three levels of DBS checks – with each one suited to different types of roles. These are: Standard – covering spent and unspent convictions, reprimands, cautions, and final warnings. Enhanced – covering all of the above plus any relevant information held by police.

Can I refuse a DBS check?

What shows up on a DBS?

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) plus additional information held on local police records that is reasonably considered relevant to …

How far back does a CRB check go?

Is the enhanced disclosure check the same as a CRB check?

You’ll sometimes hear this sort of check being referred to as a CRB check, but this sort of terminology is out of date. Many different types of jobs need an enhanced disclosure check.

Do you need a disclosure check for a job?

The key is working out whether you have committed a crime or not. You will need a disclosure check for a wide range of different occupations. This type of check is also known as a criminal records check, or a DBS check. The type of check will depend on the type of job. Certificates will show details of your criminal record, including cautions.

What do I need to apply for CRB direct?

First, complete the application form online with your personal details. You will need to list the basics like name, address, date of birth and contact details, along with any previous names or surnames you have used, and an address history going back five years. This all helps the police ensure they are checking the correct records.

Where does disclosure and Barring Service check take place?

These checks are processed by the Disclosure and Barring Service ( DBS ). For certain roles, the check will also include information held on the Children’s and Adults’ Barred Lists, alongside any information held by local police forces, that is considered relevant to the applied-for post.