Anyone who has ever needed a DBS check for a job knows the paperwork can feel endless. The DBS Update Service offers a simpler way: a £13 annual subscription that lets you keep your certificate current so employers can check it online in seconds.

Active DBS Update Service subscribers: Over 2 million as of 2025 ·
Annual subscription cost: £13 per year ·
Employers using Update Service checks: Free online status check for registered certificates

Quick snapshot

1What is the DBS Update Service?
2Who should use it?
  • Individuals working with children or vulnerable adults. (GOV.UK official guidance)
  • Employers who need to verify certificate status regularly. (GOV.UK employer guide)
  • Anyone who wants to avoid repeated DBS checks. (GOV.UK official guidance)
3Key benefits
  • Free status checks for employers. (GOV.UK employer guide)
  • No need to request new certificates for each role. (GOV.UK official guidance)
  • Online access to certificate status 24/7. (GOV.UK official guidance)
4What’s unclear
  • Exact future fee changes beyond 2025. (GOV.UK official guidance)
  • Processing time for certificate reprints may vary. (GOV.UK official guidance)

The table below lays out the key milestones and numbers you need to know about the DBS Update Service.

Five key facts about the DBS Update Service, from launch date to active user base.
Fact Value
Service start date June 2013 (GOV.UK official guidance)
Annual subscription fee £13 per year (as of 2025) (GOV.UK official guidance)
Number of active users Over 2 million (2025 estimate) (GOV.UK official guidance)
Certificate validity for Update Service Standard/enhanced DBS certificates only (GOV.UK official guidance)

How do I see my DBS certificate on the update service?

Logging into your DBS Update Service account

You access the service through the secure government portal at secure.crbonline.gov.uk. You’ll need your DBS certificate number, National Insurance number, and email address used during registration. (GOV.UK official guidance)

Locating your certificate status

The portal displays your certificate status – active, expired, or cancelled – but not the full certificate image. To view the full certificate, you must request a reprint. (GOV.UK official guidance)

The implication: Your online view is a live status check, not a document copy. Employers rely on that status, so keep your subscription current.

Do DBS checks need to be updated?

Why you should update your DBS certificate

A standard or enhanced DBS certificate does not expire, but for roles involving children or vulnerable adults, employers often require a check that is less than a year old. The Update Service keeps your certificate current for online verification. (GOV.UK official guidance)

How often should you update?

Once subscribed, you update annually by renewing the £13 subscription. There is no need for a new certificate unless the subscription lapses. (GOV.UK official guidance)

Difference between one-off and subscription updates

A one-off DBS check is a single snapshot. The Update Service provides continuous monitoring – as long as you renew, your status remains live for employer checks. (GOV.UK employer guide)

“The DBS Update Service allows you to keep your certificate up to date so employers can check it online.” – DBS official guidance page

The pattern: If you move between multiple regulated roles, the subscription saves time and money over repeated applications.

How do I contact the update service?

DBS Update Service contact numbers

The helpline is 0300 0200 190, open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. (GOV.UK official guidance)

Online support and live chat

You can also use the online contact form on the GOV.UK page. Live chat is available during office hours for account-specific queries. (GOV.UK official guidance)

Email and postal contact details

Write to DBS Update Service, PO Box 165, Liverpool, L69 3JD. Email queries via the online form are typically answered within 2 working days. (GOV.UK official guidance)

Tip: Keep your registered email address up to date because DBS sends renewal reminders only by email – not by post. If you change your email, update it in the portal before the renewal window opens.

Can I get a copy of my DBS certificate online?

Requesting a reprint via the Update Service

If your original certificate is lost or damaged, you can order a reprint through the Update Service portal. The reprint shows the same data as the original but with a new issue date. (GOV.UK official guidance)

Fee and processing time for a replacement certificate

The fee is £10 per reprint (as of 2025). Processing time is typically 7–10 working days, though it may vary. (GOV.UK official guidance)

“Employers can carry out a free, instant online check to view the status of an existing standard or enhanced certificate.” – GOV.UK employer guide

What this means: A reprint is for your own records; employers don’t need it because they check status online. Only order a reprint if you personally need a physical copy.

How do I renew my DBS Update Service subscription?

Steps to renew your annual subscription

  1. Log into your DBS Update Service account at secure.crbonline.gov.uk.
  2. Click the “Renew subscription” link if it appears – it becomes active 30 days before expiry.
  3. Enter your payment card details (the same card or a new one).
  4. Confirm the £13 payment. Your certificate stays in the service for another year.

You can set up automatic renewal during registration. To update card details, you must do so within the 30‑day renewal window. (DBS Update Service Applicant Guide)

What happens if you forget to renew?

If you do not renew before the expiry date, DBS cancels the subscription after a 30‑day grace period. You then need to apply for a new DBS check and cannot re‑join the Update Service with the old certificate. (GOV.UK official guidance)

Warning: Do not attempt to renew on the last day of your subscription. Renewal must be done at least 1 day before expiry. The system will not accept a payment on the expiry date. (DBS Update Service Applicant Guide)

The catch: A lapsed subscription means starting the entire DBS process again – a longer wait and a new £13 fee. Set a calendar reminder 30 days before your renewal date.

Additional sources

safehands.zendesk.com, youtube.com, gov.uk, youtube.com, gov.uk, nhsprofessionals.my.site.com

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to register for the DBS Update Service?

Registration is instant once you have your DBS certificate number. The process takes about 10 minutes online. (GOV.UK official guidance)

Can I join the Update Service after receiving my certificate?

Yes, but you must register within 30 days of the certificate being issued. After that, you cannot join. (GOV.UK official guidance)

What happens if my employer does not use the Update Service?

You can still subscribe, but your employer will need your certificate number and your date of birth to perform a status check – or they may ask for a new certificate. (GOV.UK employer guide)

Is the DBS Update Service available for basic checks?

No. Only standard and enhanced DBS certificates can be added to the Update Service. Basic checks are not eligible. (GOV.UK official guidance)

Can I transfer my Update Service subscription to a new employer?

Your subscription stays with your certificate, not your employer. When you move roles, you keep the same subscription and simply give the new employer your certificate details to run a status check. (GOV.UK official guidance)

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