When hiring staff or changing jobs, one common question is: Are DBS checks transferable between employers? The short answer is: not always. While there are situations where a previous DBS check might be accepted by a new employer, there are also many cases where a fresh application is necessary. Understanding the rules around DBS transferability can help both employers and applicants save time and ensure compliance.
What Is a DBS Check?
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is a background screening process used in the UK to help employers make safer recruitment decisions. It reveals whether an individual has a criminal record, including cautions, convictions, or any information held by police or relevant barring lists.
There are three main types of DBS checks:
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Basic DBS Check – shows unspent convictions.
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Standard DBS Check – shows both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings.
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Enhanced DBS Check – includes everything in the standard check, plus any relevant information held by local police, and checks against the children’s or adults’ barred lists (if applicable).
Are DBS Checks Transferable?
In most cases, DBS checks are not fully transferable between employers, especially when the role involves working with vulnerable groups such as children or adults at risk. That’s because:
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Each role may have different legal requirements for the level and type of check needed.
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Enhanced and Standard checks are role-specific and organisation-specific, meaning they reflect only the needs and criteria of the original role.
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New employers have a duty to perform their own due diligence, especially in regulated industries.
For example, a teacher moving from one school to another will usually need a new Enhanced DBS check, even if the previous one was carried out recently.
When Might a DBS Be Accepted by a New Employer?
There are limited situations where a DBS check might be reused:
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The Update Service:
If the applicant is subscribed to the DBS Update Service, employers can check the status of their existing DBS certificate online. This service keeps the certificate up to date and allows new employers to see if any changes have occurred since it was issued.The employer must:
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Have the applicant’s consent
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Check the original certificate level and workforce type (e.g., child or adult workforce)
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Use the Update Service only if the role matches the original certificate’s criteria
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Basic DBS Checks:
These are more general and may be accepted by different employers if no new legal requirements are involved. However, employers still have the right to request a new check at their discretion.
Final Thoughts
So, are DBS checks transferable between employers? Technically, not in most regulated roles. However, the DBS Update Service offers a practical solution for those wanting to reuse their certificate for similar roles across different organisations.
For complete peace of mind, employers are encouraged to carry out fresh DBS checks or verify existing certificates through the Update Service. At ClearCheck.co.uk, we make the process easy, fast, and fully compliant—whether you’re applying for a new check or verifying an existing one.
