DBS Checks for Private Hire
As a driver for either a taxi or private hire vehicle, you are now eligible for an enhanced DBS check
The essential information you need on DBS checks for private hire drivers
As a driver for either a taxi or private hire vehicle, you are eligible for an enhanced DBS check. This level of disclosure reveals any spent or unspent convictions, warnings, cautions, reprimands, or any other police information deemed relevant. DBS checks for private hire drivers do not include barred list checks for children or vulnerable adults and are processed in the 'Other Workforce' category.
First Things First, Why Do I Need a DBS Check for Private Hire Driving?
A DBS check for private hire drivers is necessary as it helps determine whether a driver is suitable to drive the public and helps passengers feel safer. All private hire drivers are eligible for enhanced DBS checks.
Who Exactly is Eligible for the Enhanced DBS Check?
Before 2012, only those drivers who were transporting vulnerable groups of people were eligible for an enhanced DBS check. But from 2012, the government opened this up to all taxi and private hire drivers.
What is the Process for Getting a DBS Check for Private Hire?
To obtain a taxi or private hire licence, you must apply through your local licensing authority. As part of the suitability assessment, most councils require an Enhanced DBS check before granting the licence. The applicant completes the DBS application themselves. The check must be processed through a registered DBS Umbrella Body such as Online DBS Checks.
Once processed, the DBS certificate is issued directly to the applicant by post. The licensing authority then reviews the certificate as part of the licence decision.
Renewal requirements vary by council. Some authorities require periodic re-checks, while others require registration with the DBS Update Service to maintain ongoing licence eligibility. Always check your local authority’s guidance for specific renewal rules.
What Happens if There is a Criminal Conviction on My Record?
Having a criminal record doesn’t necessarily restrict someone from becoming a private hire or taxi driver. The licensing authority will consider the entire DBS application for taxi drivers depending on the severity of the crime.
Looking for more information on DBS application forms for taxi drivers and private hire? We’d be happy to help talk you through the process. Get in touch with our team of friendly DBS check experts today.
How long does the DBS for Private Hire take to be completed
Our Enhanced DBS checks for Private Hire drivers come back in 48 hours on average. 35% of our Enhanced DBS check results come back within 24 hours. You can reduce the time it take by ensuring your form is completed correctly and promptly.
*The turnaround times given are the average times taken for electronic result to be received. The time it takes can vary depending on local police searches, multiple addresses, common names and multiple name changes.
FAQS
1. Why do I need a private hire DBS check?
A private hire DBS check is required by local licensing authorities to confirm that you’re suitable to work with the public. Every council insists on a DBS check for private hire drivers before issuing a licence. Completing a DBS for private hire driver helps protect passengers and ensures high safety standards. Without a valid DBS for private hire taxi, your licence application cannot proceed.
2. What level of DBS check is needed for private hire drivers?
All licensing authorities require an enhanced private hire DBS check. This level of DBS checks for private hire drivers reveals convictions, cautions, warnings and relevant police information. An enhanced DBS for private hire taxi ensures that the driver meets strict safeguarding requirements. This same enhanced level applies to every DBS for private hire driver in the UK.
3. How long does a DBS check for private hire drivers take?
Processing time varies depending on police workload and ID verification, but most DBS check for private hire drivers are completed within 48 hours. Many applicants see their private hire DBS check return much sooner. Our platform completes a high percentage of DBS for private hire taxi checks in under 24 hours. Fast submission reduces delays for your DBS for private hire driver licence application.
4. Can I apply for a private hire DBS check online?
Yes, you can complete your private hire DBS check online using our secure digital application system, where your licensing authority permits the use of a registered DBS Umbrella Body.
This makes the DBS process faster and easier for new and renewing drivers. Once the application is submitted and processed, the DBS certificate is issued directly to you by post. Your licensing authority will then review the certificate as part of your private hire licence assessment.
Online completion helps streamline DBS checks for private hire drivers across many UK licensing areas. However, you should always check your local council’s guidance before applying, as some authorities require drivers to use a specific DBS route.
5. What if I have a criminal record - will I fail the DBS for private hire driver?
A criminal record doesn’t automatically stop your application. Licensing teams review the full context of every DBS for private hire driver result. You may still pass your private hire DBS check depending on the offence, how long ago it occurred, and its relevance. Local authorities make individual decisions based on all DBS checks for private hire drivers, ensuring a fair and balanced assessment. If unsure, you can request guidance before starting your DBS for private hire taxi application.
