DBS Checks for Interpreters & Translators
What Is a DBS Check for Interpreters & Translators?
A DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check is a criminal record check. For interpreters and translators, the level of check depends on what the role involves.
Interpreting on its own, including in healthcare settings, courts, or social services, is not eligible for an Enhanced DBS check. If the role involves more than interpreting, such as giving advice, a Standard DBS check may apply. General commercial translation does not require a DBS check.
The correct level for your role is typically: Basic (Standard if the role also involves giving advice).
Do Self-Employed Interpreters & Translators Need a DBS Check?
If you interpret in healthcare settings, courts, or social services, the organisations you work with will often ask for a DBS check. For interpreting alone that is a Basic DBS check, which you can request yourself on GOV.UK. If the role also involves giving advice, a Standard DBS check may apply, and the organisation needs to request it for you. General commercial translation does not require a DBS check.
Interpreters working in NHS and clinical settings are covered in our healthcare DBS checks guide, alongside locum healthcare workers and counsellors & therapists.
Not sure which check applies? Our DBS eligibility checker asks one question about your role and tells you what to do next.
What Type of DBS Check Do Interpreters & Translators Need?
Basic DBS if your role is interpreting or translating only, including in healthcare, court, or social services settings. Standard DBS if the role involves more than interpreting, such as giving advice. Self-employed people cannot apply for a Standard check themselves, so the organisation you work for needs to request it.How to Get a DBS Check as a Self-Employed Interpreters & Translators
The process is straightforward and can be completed entirely online.
Check eligibility
Check your eligibility based on who you work with and how often.
Register an account
Apply through our platform or GOV.UK depending on the level needed.
Complete application
Personal details, 5 years of addresses, and your role information.
Verify your identity
Digitally via biometric passport or EU ID card, or with standard documents.
Receive certificate
Posted directly to you. Show to employers, clients, and institutions as needed.
How Long Does a DBS Check Take for Interpreters & Translators?
Basic DBS checks typically complete within 14 days. Read more about how long a DBS check takes.
How Much Does a DBS Check Cost for Interpreters & Translators?
DBS fees are set by the government and change from time to time, so we keep every current price in one place. See our self-employed DBS check costs page for today’s DBS fees and our admin fees.
A Basic check is paid for on GOV.UK when you apply. A Standard check is paid for through the organisation that requests it.
This guide applies to self-employed workers in England and Wales only. Self-employed workers in Scotland should apply through Disclosure Scotland. In Northern Ireland, the equivalent service is AccessNI. This page is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have questions about your specific circumstances, contact our support team or consult a qualified legal adviser.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most popular questions we get about DBS Checks and our Platform
Do interpreters and translators need a DBS check?
Can I get a DBS check without an employer?
Which level of DBS check do I need?
How long is a DBS certificate valid?
No official expiry date. Most settings expect a certificate less than three years old, or an active DBS Update Service subscription.
What is the DBS Update Service?
The Update Service is an annual subscription that lets employers or clients verify your certificate status online with your consent.
How much does a DBS check cost for interpreters and translators?
It depends on the level of check your role needs. DBS fees are set by the government and change from time to time, so we keep all current prices on our self-employed DBS check costs page.
Do I need a new DBS for each client or employer?
Not with the DBS Update Service. Each new client or setting can verify your existing certificate online.