How Long Does a DBS Last? | June 2025

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is essential for anyone working with children or vulnerable adults in the UK. Whether you’re applying for a teaching position, a support role, or volunteering, it’s crucial to understand how long a DBS check lasts and when you may need a new one.

In this updated 2025 guide, we’ll answer your key questions and outline recent changes to ID checking guidelines and the use of expired Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs).

What is a DBS Check?

A DBS check is a background check conducted by the Disclosure and Barring Service. It helps employers make safer recruitment decisions by identifying candidates who may be unsuitable for certain work, especially in education, healthcare, and social care sectors.

There are three main types of DBS checks:

• Basic – Shows unspent convictions or conditional cautions.

• Standard – Includes both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings.

• Enhanced – Adds information from local police that may be relevant to the role.

How Long Does a DBS Check Last?

There’s no official expiry date for a DBS certificate. The information it contains is accurate up to the date it was issued. However, changes to your criminal record after the certificate has been issued won’t appear unless a new check is carried out.

Most employers request a new check every 1 to 3 years, with three years being the standard across the education sector.

What is the DBS Update Service?

The DBS Update Service is an online subscription that allows:

• Applicants to keep their DBS certificate up to date.

• Employers to check whether any new information has been added since the certificate was issued.

This service costs £13 per year and is highly recommended for anyone working in education or healthcare, as it simplifies the renewal process and can be used across multiple employers (as long as the same level and type of check is required).

Updated 2025: Changes to ID Checking Guidelines

As of April 22, 2025, the DBS has introduced refreshed ID checking guidelines. Key updates include:

• Streamlined application routes, especially for non-UK nationals.

• Expanded list of acceptable ID documents, making it easier for applicants to complete checks.

• These updates improve accessibility and efficiency during the application process.

Employers can continue to use the previous ID guidelines until 1 November 2025, giving time to transition to the new requirements.

Using Expired Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) for DBS Checks

One of the most notable updates for 2025 is that certain expired BRPs are now accepted:

• BRPs showing Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) can be used up to 18 months after expiry.

• This change aligns with the move towards digital e-visas, which can also be used for DBS ID verification.

This is a major step forward for international applicants, easing the documentation burden while maintaining security standards.

When Should You Renew Your DBS Check?

While a DBS certificate doesn’t expire, you may be required to renew it in the following situations:

• You’re starting a new role in a different organisation.

• Your employer requests a new check (common every 3 years).

• You’ve had a break in service or left the industry and are returning.

If you’re subscribed to the DBS Update Service, your employer can check for any changes without requiring a full reapplication.

Understanding how long your personal documents last is key to staying compliant and ensuring a smooth hiring process. With the new 2025 updates, including refreshed ID guidelines and the acceptance of expired BRPs, the process is now more inclusive and efficient. Whether you’re a teacher, TA, or support staff member, staying informed and up to date will help you land your next role with us confidently. Click here to explore our latest roles.