Individual DBS Check Solution for Self-Employed People
Fastest Government Approved DBS Umbrella Provider
Digital and Online
Rapid Self-Employed DBS Checks
If you could be described as self-employed, a sole-trader, or a single person company, or work independently in a role that requires a Standard or Enhanced individual DBS check, you can now apply for your own individual DBS check through a DBS Umbrella provider like us.
Following changes to DBS legislation in January 2026 (view official guidance), Individuals no longer need an organisation to apply on their behalf.
Our fully digital service is designed to reduce complexity and avoid unnecessary delays, helping you complete the individual DBS process correctly and start DBS-dependent work sooner. Optional digital Right To Work Check also available.
How our platform works in 5 Easy Steps...
Registration
Click the button below and complete the short registration form to receive your invite link. This sets up your free account and allows you to begin your DBS application process securely.
Your DBS Type
Log in and follow the guided prompts to select your DBS check level and job role. Use a pre-approved role or create your own. You can also add a digital Right to Work check if needed.
The App Form
Complete the online application form with your personal details, address history and required information. This ensures your DBS submission is accurate and processed without unnecessary delays.
Validate your ID
Certificate
Get Great Support
Get first-class support with every step of the Individual DBS check process from our friendly UK-based team.
Our platform has been designed to be as intuitive as possible, so you’ll likely not need any support, but if you do…we’ve got you covered.
Benefit from our easy-to-navigate Knowledge Base, packed with helpful articles and demonstrator videos featuring Lydia, our DBS platform expert.
And if you’re still stuck, our dedicated UK support team is always ready to assist.
The Fastest DBS Checks Possible With e-Bulk
Results, including DBS Certificate snapshots, come in electronically, and are available immediately
With e-bulk, we can submit thousands of DBS Check applications a day
What people think about us?
Child Club onsite Ancillary Staff
"Very straight forward process and easy service to use"
Teacher
"I found the form easy to complete. The steps were well-organised, and the information required was clear, which made the process smooth"
Healthcare Worker
"Good interface easy to understand and follow."
Social-Care Support Staff
"Very easy and straightforward process. The form was clear, took very little time to complete, and instructions were simple to follow. Smooth experience overall"
Healthcare Assistant
"Very easy to use!"
Children Sports Club Assistant
"The service is great and easy. I am happy it took less then 5 minutes to complete."
Healthcare Assistant
"It is good the system checks the dates entered against further entries to check they match when making an error."
Care Home Ancillary Staff
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most popular questions we get about DBS Checks and our Platform
FAQ's about our Platform
Does it cost anything to register for an Individual DBS Check?
No.
You’ll only pay for what you need to process. If you find you don’t need one before the payment process, then you don’t owe anything.
What is the e-bulk system?
The Disclosure and Barring Service introduced the e bulk system to provide a faster and more efficient way of submitting DBS applications.
The system uses two way data transfer, which means application results and tracking references are sent directly back to self-employed-dbs.co.uk, often within just two to three hours. By using e bulk, the need for paper forms is removed, creating a quicker and simpler process for self employed applicants.
When Individual DBS Check applications are submitted through self-employed-dbs.co.uk, they are securely transferred to the Disclosure and Barring Service within minutes. This helps support faster turnaround times and a smoother experience for individuals working independently.
Are you really the Fastest DBS Check Provider?
At self-employed-dbs.co.uk, we are always transparent. Once a DBS application has been submitted to the Disclosure and Barring Service, no Umbrella Body can influence how quickly it is processed.
Where we help make DBS Checks quicker for self employed individuals is in everything before and after submission:
- e bulk registered provider Submissions are sent securely and electronically, removing delays caused by paper forms.
- Simple account setup The platform makes it quick and straightforward for self employed applicants to register and get started.
- Straightforward applicant journey Applications are easy to complete thanks to a clear and intuitive design.
- Instant updates Notifications are sent as soon as progress is made or results are available.
- Fast UK based support Our experienced team is on hand to help quickly whenever guidance is needed.
That is why self employed professionals, sole traders, and single person companies choose self-employed-dbs.co.uk. By removing delays at every possible stage, we make the DBS Check process as fast and smooth as it can be.
Do I need your software installed?
No, it is all browser based, work with all the major web browsers like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari
Is the DBS Check data secure?
Yes. 2FA authentication, keeps your account secure.
All our communications with Government servers require extensive security protocols.
All data transfer is encrypted, as you would expect,
General DBS FAQ's
How much does a DBS Check cost?
A DBS Check processed through an Umbrella Body is usually made up of two parts that together form the total cost.
1. The DBS fee set by the Disclosure and Barring Service
This is a fixed government charge that applies to each application, whether you submit a single check or multiple checks:
- Basic DBS Check: £21.50
- Standard DBS Check: £21.50
- Enhanced DBS Check: £49.50
- Enhanced DBS Check with Adults’ and or Children’s Barred List: £49.50
2. The Umbrella Body administration fee
This is the fee charged by the Umbrella Body for managing and submitting the DBS application. Check our Pricing Page
What are the levels of DBS Check available?
There are three main levels of DBS Checks: Basic, Standard, and Enhanced.
Self employed individuals should consider the duties and responsibilities of the work they carry out to decide which level of DBS Check is appropriate.
Many self employed roles require an Enhanced DBS Check, while some support or ancillary roles may only be eligible for a Standard DBS Check depending on the setting and activities involved.
Choosing the correct level helps support safer working practices, protects vulnerable people, and demonstrates compliance with safeguarding expectations when working independently.
How long does a DBS Check take?
Most DBS Checks are completed quickly, with many returned within 48 hours. The exact timeframe depends on the level of check being carried out:
- Basic DBS Checks are usually the fastest and are often completed within a few hours.
- Standard DBS Checks are commonly returned within 24 to 48 hours and rarely take longer than five working days.
- Enhanced DBS Checks involve additional checks by local police forces. Some are completed on the same day, but they generally take longer than Basic or Standard checks. The majority are completed within ten working days.
For self employed individuals, this means DBS Checks are usually completed promptly, helping work to begin sooner without unnecessary delays.
"Very quick and easy, when I made a mistake it was easy to rectify this"