DBS Checks for Dance Teachers
What Is a DBS Check for Dance Teachers?
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is a criminal record check that reveals whether someone has convictions, cautions, or other information that could make them unsuitable to work with children.
For self-employed dance teachers, whether you teach ballet, contemporary, hip-hop, ballroom, or any other style, a DBS check is the standard safeguarding requirement when teaching children. Dance instruction involves close physical contact, often in private studio settings, making the safeguarding expectation clear.
Most self-employed dance teachers who regularly teach children will need an Enhanced DBS check with a check of the Children’s Barred List.
Do Self-Employed Dance Teachers Need a DBS Check?
If you teach dance to children on a regular, paid basis, you are carrying out regulated activity with children. The frequency threshold is the same as other teaching roles: more than three sessions within any 30-day period, or weekly classes.
The Royal Academy of Dance, ISTD, and other dance governing bodies all require Enhanced DBS checks for teachers working with children. Dance schools and community centres will not engage you without one.
If you teach adults exclusively, a DBS check is not legally required, though a Basic check is a good professional credential.
Apply for Your Dance Teacher DBS Check. Get your Enhanced DBS check as a self-employed dance teacher fully online, digital ID verification, e-Bulk submitted today from self-employed-dbs.co.uk.
Until 21 January 2026, self-employed dance teachers could only apply for a Basic DBS check unless a dance school or employer sponsored a higher-level application. Many freelance dance teachers found themselves unable to access the Enhanced checks their governing bodies required.
From 21 January 2026, self-employed individuals in paid regulated activity can apply for Enhanced DBS checks through a registered platform. This means freelance ballet teachers, hip-hop instructors, and all other self-employed dance teachers can now get properly vetted independently.
Read the full details in our guide to DBS changes in 2025 and 2026.
What Type of DBS Check Does a Dance Teacher Need?
Enhanced DBS with Children’s Barred List is the correct level for dance teachers who teach children regularly.
Enhanced DBS without Barred List may apply if your contact with children is occasional and always supervised.
Basic DBS is sufficient for teachers who work exclusively with adults. Available through GOV.UK.
Read more about Enhanced DBS checks.
How to Get a DBS Check as a Self-Employed Dance Teacher
The process is straightforward, though it differs from the route a dance teacher employed by a school or studio would take.
Check eligibility
You must be providing paid dance instruction to children in a qualifying role.
Register an account
Self-employed dance teachers can now apply directly without a studio or employer.
Complete application
Personal details, 5 years of addresses, and information about your teaching role.
Verify your identity
Digitally via biometric passport or EU ID card, or with standard documents.
Receive certificate
Posted directly to you. Show to studios, schools, and parents.
How Long Does a DBS Check Take for Dance Teachers?
Enhanced DBS checks typically complete within 14 days via our e-Bulk electronic submission. Factor processing time into your planning if starting at a new studio.
There is no official fast-track route. Read more about how long a DBS check takes.
How Much Does a DBS Check Cost for a Dance Teacher?
The DBS statutory fee for an Enhanced check is £49.50.
See all fees on our DBS check costs for self-employed page.
This guide applies to self-employed dance teachers in England and Wales only. In Scotland, apply through Disclosure Scotland. In Northern Ireland, the equivalent service is AccessNI. This page is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most popular questions we get about DBS Checks and our Platform
Do ballet teachers need a DBS check?
Yes. If you teach ballet to children regularly, you need an Enhanced DBS check with Children’s Barred List. The Royal Academy of Dance requires this for all teachers working with under-18s.
Does the ISTD require a DBS check?
Yes. The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing requires Enhanced DBS checks for teachers working with children. This applies across all dance styles.
I teach adults-only dance classes. Do I need a DBS?
There is no legal requirement if you exclusively teach adults who are not vulnerable. A Basic DBS check is available for professional credibility.
Can I get a DBS check without a dance school sponsor?
Yes. From January 2026, self-employed dance teachers can apply for Enhanced DBS checks through a registered platform. No employer or school sponsor needed.
I teach at multiple studios. Do I need separate DBS checks?
No. One DBS certificate is valid across all settings. The DBS Update Service lets each studio verify your certificate online.
Do I need a DBS for dance exams and competitions?
If you are involved in examining or adjudicating children, the examining body will have its own DBS requirements. Check with the specific organisation.
How long is a DBS certificate valid?
No official expiry date. Most governing bodies and studios expect a certificate less than three years old, or an active DBS Update Service subscription.