DBS checks
How to confirm an applicant's manual ID check for DBS
Most applicants use automated identity verification through Yoti. If they cannot, follow the manual ID process and inspect the original documents.
Before you check
Applicants can upload PDF, JPG or PNG copies to the platform for record keeping. You must be in physical possession of the original documents, and the check should be completed face to face where possible.
- Route 1. One document from Group 1, plus two further documents from Group 1, Group 2a or Group 2b.
- Current address. At least one of the documents must show the applicant's current address.
Group 1: Primary identity documents
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport | Any current and valid passport |
| Biometric residence permit | UK |
| Current driving licence photocard | Full or provisional; UK, Isle of Man and Channel Islands |
| Birth certificate issued within 12 months of birth | UK, Isle of Man and Channel Islands, including UK authorities overseas |
| Adoption certificate | UK and Channel Islands |
Group 2a: Trusted government documents
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Current driving licence photocard | Countries outside the UK, excluding Isle of Man and Channel Islands |
| Paper driving licence issued before 1998 | UK, Isle of Man and Channel Islands |
| Birth certificate issued after time of birth | UK, Isle of Man and Channel Islands |
| Marriage or civil partnership certificate | UK and Channel Islands |
| Immigration document, visa or work permit | For roles where the applicant lives and works outside the UK; must relate to that country |
| HM Forces ID card | UK |
| Firearms licence | UK, Isle of Man and Channel Islands |
Group 2b: Financial and social history
| Document | Location | Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Mortgage statement | UK | Last 12 months |
| Bank or building society statement | UK and Channel Islands | Last 3 months |
| Bank or building society statement | Outside the UK | Last 3 months; branch must be where the applicant lives and works |
| Account opening confirmation | UK | Last 3 months |
| Credit card statement | UK | Last 3 months |
| Pension or endowment statement | UK | Last 12 months |
| P45 or P60 | UK and Channel Islands | Last 12 months |
| Council Tax statement | UK and Channel Islands | Last 12 months |
| Employment sponsorship letter | Non-UK applicants living abroad | Must still be valid |
| Utility bill | UK; not a mobile bill | Last 3 months |
| Benefit statement | UK | Last 3 months |
| Government or council entitlement document | UK and Channel Islands | Last 3 months |
| EEA National ID card | — | 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 |
| Head teacher or college principal letter | UK; ages 16–19 in full-time education, exceptional circumstances only | Must still be valid |
Further guidance
An applicant who is not a UK national and is applying for voluntary work may need fingerprints if they cannot show the required documents.
After completing the manual identity check, return to the application review and submit it for countersigning.
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Related guides
What is a DBS check and who is it for?Understand the four DBS check levels and the roles that may need them.How to request a DBS checkCreate a candidate, choose a role and send the right DBS or Right to Work check.How to submit a DBS application for countersigningReview the applicant's form, confirm identity and send it to the countersignatory.