Does a DBS Check Expire?

DBS checks do not have an official expiration date.

Whether a Basic, Standard or Enhanced DBS check, they do not officially expire. This is because the information that’s disclosed is only accurate at the time the DBS check was carried out.

There is no set date when any information disclosed is deemed inaccurate. It doesn’t magically go from “accurate” to “inaccurate” in the space of a day, a week or even several years.

DBS certificates are essential for safeguarding requirements in various industries. Ultimately, it is at the discretion of an employer or governing body, as to whether an applicant will need to apply for a DBS again. They decide when new DBS checks can be carried out.

This is so up-to-date information can be disclosed, such as cautions, convictions, warnings or reprimands, which may not have been included in the previous DBS application. Since that time, an applicant may have new information which requires a fresh criminal record check, if their actions could potentially cause a conflict with children and/or vulnerable adults in their workplace.