On the 21 April 2025, the Disclosure and Barring Service announced their updated guidance for manually checking IDs. From that point, they established a six-month transition period where the original methods and updated methods would run at the same time, giving responsible bodies (RBs) and responsible organisations (ROs) time to prepare.
Now that the six-month period is coming to a close, we’ll be making a number of updates to our platform to align with these new guidelines and best practices from 29 October 2025 onwards.
Here’s what to expect:
- No separation: All applicants can have their ID verified using the three-route process. There will no longer be a different route for non-UK nationals.
- Virtual identification: If an in-person check isn’t possible, document copies can be viewed via video call as long as the original documents are presented to the ID checker before employment starts, or, in exceptional circumstances, on the first day of employment.
- Address: The DBS no longer requires one of the documents to have an applicant’s current address on it.
- Group 1 documents added: Biometric residence permit (BRP), e-Visa, and Application Registration Card (ARC) have been added to Group 1 documents.
- Group 2b documents added: HMRC self-assessment or tax demand letters and European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) have been added to Group 2b documents.
- Data storing: Details of documents used to verify identities must be held for two years – an increase from the current six months.
- Expired passports: These can be accepted for up to six months after expiration.
- Benefit Statement: Validity extended from 3 months to 12 months.
Additionally, the DBS has added new examples of how Group 1 and 2b documents can be used, as well as more guidance on how to view documents to make it easier to correctly check IDs.
For more information, check out the DBS website and their ID checking guidelines for Basic check applications, and for Standard/Enhanced DBS check applications.
Stay updated and compliant with uCheck
At uCheck, we’re here to keep you in the loop with all the changes coming out from the DBS. For any help or advice on how to complete DBS checks successfully, our experts are here to help. Simply get in touch on 0300 140 0022, via Live Chat or send us an email at help@ucheck.co.uk.
