Self-Employed Individuals

Self-employed professionals can now apply for both Basic and Enhanced DBS checks. Following a legislative amendment, self-employed individuals and personal employees are now permitted to approach Registered Bodies directly to apply for Enhanced and Enhanced with Barred List DBS checks.

This change was introduced through an amendment to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 and came into effect in January 2026.

Eligibility for an Enhanced DBS check is not automatic. Self-employed individuals must be working in roles that involve contact with children, vulnerable adults, or in settings where they are in the vicinity of these groups. If you are unsure of the eligibility required for your role, please use the eligibility guide.

To process your application, a valid biometric passport is required. If you do not hold a biometric passport, you will need to send your original identification documents to us by post. These must be accompanied by a pre-paid envelope to enable their secure return. Once your application has been received, we will contact you to confirm which documents are acceptable and to arrange a video call to complete the identity verification process.

Apply for your Enhanced or Basic DBS check today using the links below.