External Checks (Route 2)

As per the DBS guidance, if the applicant does not have any category 1 documents:

• Biometric permit
• Passport
• Drivers licence Photocard - UK/EU
• UK original birth certificate
• Adoption certificate

and they only have one category 2 document:

• UK paper licence
• Replacement birth certificate
• Fire arms licence
• Marriage certificate
• HM forces card

they will have to take the external check (known as Route 2) to be verified by an external source. For this Atlantic Data uses Experian.  Experian conduct a soft check and issue a result of pass or fail instantly. 

If the applicant does not pass this external check, then they are only left with 2 options:

1. Apply for/renew or obtain the necessary documentation to follow the normal verification route. This will usually mean applying for a passport or a provisional driving licence, or both
2. Take route 4 - fingerprint application method. This can take up to 3 months for the result to be issued

DBS Guidance - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dbs-identity-checking-guidelines/id-checking-guidelines-for-standardenhanced-dbs-check-applications-from-1-july-2021