When applying for a DBS check, one of the most important steps is confirming the applicant’s identity.
Getting the ID for DBS check wrong is one of the most common reasons for delays in getting the application processed, as it can be a little complicated.
In this guide, we explain exactly what ID for DBS check applications is required, how the process works for Basic, Standard, and Enhanced checks, and how organisations can simplify identity verification using Digital ID checks.
The 3 Route ID Checking Process
Depending on the documents you have available will affect the ID needed for the DBS check. These three routes are outlined below.
For a Basic DBS check, only Route 1 and 2 and be used. For Standard or Enhanced, any three of the below routes can be taken.
Route 1
This is the fastest, and easiest way. The applicant must be able to show:
- one document from Group 1, below
- two further documents from either Group 1, or Group 2a, or 2b, below
The combination of documents presented must confirm the applicant’s name and date of birth.
For Basic DBS application, only one further document from either Group 1, or Group 2a, or 2b is required.
Route 2
Route 2 can only be used if it’s impossible to process the application through Route 1. The ID for DBS check that can be used remains the same.
The organisation conducting the ID check must then also use an appropriate external ID verification service to check the application.
If the applicant doesn’t have any of the documents in Group 1, then they must be able to show:
- one document from Group 2a
- two further documents from either Group 2a or 2b
The combination of documents presented must confirm the applicant’s name and date of birth.
An External ID Check must also be done – this can be done through Employment Tools. If completing a Basic DBS check, the External ID Check is not required.
Route 3
Route 3 can only be used if it’s impossible to process the application through Routes 1 or 2. The ID for DBS check that can be used remains the same.
For Route 3, the applicant must be able to show:
- a birth certificate issued more than 12 months after the time of birth (UK, Isle of Man and Channel Islands)
- one document from Group 2a
- three further documents from Group 2a or 2b
The combination of documents presented must confirm the applicant’s name and date of birth.
If these ID documents can’t be provided, fingerprinting via a paper DBS application may be required.
Route 3 cannot be used for Basic DBS Checks.
Group 1: Primary Identity Documents
These documents are required to prove an identity.
| Documents | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport | Any current and valid passport. A UK passport can be expired up to a maximum of 6 months. |
| e-Visa | Accessed via the ‘View and Prove’ service. The share code requested by the applicant should be an ‘immigration status’ share code. If you do not have a UKVI account to access your eVisa you can create you can create one online (Get access to your online immigration status (eVisa) – GOV.UK) |
| Biometric residence permit (BRP) | UK. A BRP showing Indefinite Leave to Remain, Indefinite Leave to Enter or No Time Limit can be used up to 18 months past the expiry date of the BRP. BRP holders should be encouraged to create an account and access their eVisa |
| Application Registration Card (ARC) | Issued by the Home Office. Must be checked against the Home Office Employer Checking Service. |
| Current driving licence photocard – (full or provisional) | Current and valid photocard driving licence issued by UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands. From 8 June 2015, the paper counterpart to the photocard driving licence will not be valid and will no longer be issued by DVLA |
| Birth certificate – issued within 12 months of birth | UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands – including those issued by UK authorities overseas, for example embassies, High Commissions and HM Forces. Must be original birth certificate. Certified copies are a group 2a document. |
| Adoption certificate | UK and Channel Islands |
Group 2a: Trusted Government Documents
As of April 2025, the document does not need to have the applicant’s current address on it, apart from the paper driving licence.
| Documents | Notes |
|---|---|
| Current driving licence photocard – (full or provisional) | All countries outside the UK (excluding Isle of Man and Channel Islands) |
| Current driving licence (full or provisional) | Current and valid. UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands. For a paper licence to be valid it must be issued before March 2000 and all information, including name and address, must be up to date. |
| Birth certificate – issued more than 12 months after birth | UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands |
| Marriage/civil partnership certificate | UK and Channel Islands |
| Immigration document, visa, or work permit | Issued by a country outside the UK. Valid only for roles whereby the applicant is living and working outside of the UK. Visa/permit must relate to the non-UK country in which the role is based. |
| HM Forces ID card | UK |
| Firearms licence | UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands |
Group 2b: Financial & Social History Documents
As of April 2025, the document does not need to have the applicant’s current address on it, apart from the paper driving licence.
| Documents | Notes | Issue Date & Validity |
|---|---|---|
| Mortgage statement | UK | Issued in last 12 months |
| Bank or building society statement | UK and Channel Islands | Issued in last 3 months |
| Bank or building society statement | Countries outside the UK | Issued in last 3 months – branch must be in the country where the applicant lives and works |
| Bank or building society account opening confirmation letter | UK | Issued in last 3 months |
| Credit card statement | UK | Issued in last 3 months |
| Financial statement, for example pension or endowment | UK | Issued in last 12 months |
| P45 or P60 statement | UK and Channel Islands | Issued in last 12 months |
| Council Tax statement | UK and Channel Islands | Issued in last 12 months |
| Letter of sponsorship from future employment provider | Non-UK only | Valid only for applicants residing outside of the UK at time of application. Must still be valid. |
| Utility bill | UK – not mobile telephone bill | Issued in last 3 months |
| Benefit statement, for example Child Benefit, pension | UK | Issued in last 12 months |
| Central or local government, government agency, or local council document giving entitlement, for example from the Department for Work and Pensions, the Employment Service, Local Authority | UK and Channel Islands – a letter confirming entitlement to benefits. For example: Personal Independence Payment (PIP), free school meals, universal credit, asylum support etc | Issued in last 12 months |
| HMRC self-assessment letters or tax demand letter | UK | Issued in last 12 months |
| European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) | UK | Must still be valid |
| EEA National ID card | Must still be valid | |
| Irish Passport Card | Cannot be used with an Irish passport | Must still be valid |
| Cards carrying the PASS accreditation logo | UK, Isle of Man, and Channel Islands | Must still be valid |
| Letter from head teacher or college principal | UK – for 16 to 19 year olds in full time education – only used in exceptional circumstances if other documents cannot be provided | Must still be valid |
Making ID for DBS Checks Easier with Digital ID
Manually checking ID for DBS check can be time-consuming, especially when applicants are remote or working different hours. Digital ID checks remove much of this friction.
With Digital ID, the ID for DBS check verification is completed online. Applicants can use their smartphone to:
- Upload their identity documents
- Complete biometric verification such as a selfie or short video
- Have their documents automatically checked for validity
This reduces errors and speeds up DBS submissions.
ID for DBS Checks Through Employment Tools
Employment Tools by Aaron’s Department offers Digital ID checks fully integrated with DBS applications. This completely removes the need for seeing an applicants documents, and speeds up the whole process.
All identity verification follows DBS guidance and UK GDPR requirements, and proof of ID checks is securely stored for audit purposes.
Final Thoughts on ID for DBS Checks
Getting the ID for DBS check right is essential for avoiding delays and staying compliant. Whether you’re applying for one DBS check or managing checks across a whole organisation, understanding the ID requirements makes a big difference.
Digital ID checks remove much of the complexity and help ensure DBS applications are completed correctly the first time.
What ID is required for a DBS check?
For a DBS check, applicants must provide original documents that confirm their identity, date of birth, and address. This usually includes a passport or driving licence, along with a recent proof of address such as a bank statement or utility bill.
Does ID for DBS Need To Have Current Address
As of April 2025, the document does not need to have the applicant’s current address on it, apart from the paper driving licence. If it does not have the applicants current address, it is up to the organisation to ensure the address on the application form is correct.
Is the ID for a DBS check the same for all DBS levels?
Yes. The ID for DBS check requirements are the same for Basic, Standard, and Enhanced DBS checks. The only difference is a Basic DBS check requires one less document.
Can I use expired documents as ID for a DBS check?
Only a UK Passport can be expired, by up to 6 months. All other documents must be current and valid.
Does ID need to be checked in person for a DBS check?
Not always. ID can be verified either in person or through an approved Digital ID check. Digital ID allows applicants to verify their identity online, which is often quicker and more convenient.
If manually checking documents, they must be seen before the applicant starts work.
Is Digital ID accepted by the DBS?
Yes. Digital ID checks are accepted by the DBS when completed in line with their identity checking guidelines. They are widely used by organisations to reduce delays and errors.
Do you store proof of ID checks?
Yes. When using Employment Tools, proof of ID verification is securely stored alongside the DBS application. This helps with audits, compliance, and record keeping.
About The Author
John Schofield-Antoncich
John is an employment compliance specialist with years of hands-on experience in DBS checks and other employment check processes. Having overseen thousands of applications, he’s your trusted source for accurate, up-to-date guidance.