What is the DBS Update Service?

The DBS Update Service is an online subscription service that enables DBS holders to keep DBS certificates and clearance up to date, renew clearance on an annual basis and allows employers to recheck certificate status online.

Please note, there are systems in place for Club and County Safeguarding Officers to monitor this clearance, and checking of status using the DBS Update Service should only be actioned by authorised employers and ECB staff.

Registration initially lasts for one year and can then be renewed annually. The service is free for Volunteers and the fee payable by Paid applications to register is £16 and then £16 per year on each renewal date. 

Applicants can register for the Update Service once a certificate has been issued and ECB DBS Team and Disclosures Portal will provide information and instruction regarding the registration process. Certificates must registered within 30 days of issue. You can opt out of registration, however your ECB Clearance will only be for 12 months from certificate issue.

Alternatively, if you already have an active registration to the Update Service, at the same Paid/Voluntary status, you can choose to add your new ECB DBS certificate to that registration and give us consent to add you to the annual rechecks process.

For a full guide on the DBS Update Service, visit https://www.gov.uk/dbs-update-service