4 Steps To Speed Up Your Online DBS Check Application
The digital revolution has made everything move more rapidly, including recruitment and changing jobs. Employers want people to fill vacancies quickly without the burden of excessive paperwork and ensuing delays. That’s why most employers that require DBS checks are turning to online DBS applications to speed up the whole process.
Applying for a DBS check online is already much, much faster than a paper application. You can get the results of an online DBS check in as little as 48 hours, which compared to the paper application turnaround time with an average waiting time of four weeks, is much more efficient.
However, if you are applying online for a DBS check, whether it’s a basic DBS check for yourself or you’re applying on behalf of an employee, there are things you can do to make sure that the process is as speedy as possible.
Here we will cover the 4 main steps needed to speed up your online DBS application.
1. Prepare all your documents and information carefully
The more accurate and detailed the information you provide, the faster your DBS application can be processed. Yes, online checks are quicker, but if there is a lack of information or errors, it will be slowed down as the DBS staff will have to do some digging to get the right information.
To avoid the back and forth of rectifying errors or providing missing information, make sure you have everything ready at your fingertips to fill in the online form. Here are some of the things you’ll need:
- Full address history going back five years – preferably with no gaps.
- If there are gaps in your address history you need to provide verifiable proof of where you were living at the time.
- Personal info such as date of birth, current telephone number, email address, etc.
- Details to prove any change of nationality.
- Details of any unspent convictions.
- A valid, UK government-issued ID, such as a UK Driving Licence, Birth Certificate, or Passport. The DBS will require original documents, not just photos or copies.
2. Find a reliable online DBD check provider
Applying online is definitely the fastest way to get a certificate, compared to paper applications. To make the process even faster and more efficient, you should look for a provider that offers an easy-to-follow and well-designed online application process.
Here at DBSChecks, we have taken the time to design a highly streamlined online DBS application system that ensures you get your results as rapidly as possible. One of our agents manually checks over your application for any missing information or potential errors and in some cases will correct the errors for you to ensure there are no delays with your application.
3. Double and triple-check your application before submitting it
The great thing about an online DBS application is that you can easily change any errors. You don’t need to cross things out and rewrite it with a signature next to it as you would with a paper form. If you make an error, you may even have to start a paper form all over again, whereas the online application form can be corrected immediately.
But that doesn’t mean you should be complacent. To get the fastest results possible, everything needs to be accurate when you submit it, so make sure that you run through the online form at least twice to check for mistakes and correct them as soon as you spot them.
For example, if you have missed out a previous address, misspelled a name, or there’s a typo in your work history – make sure you change it as it can slow down your application considerably. This is especially true for Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks, as they require input from various police departments and any inconsistencies in your information will be spotted immediately. It may even mean your application is rejected and you’ll have to start all over again.
The key thing is to go through and check your application form with a fine tooth-comb and make sure everything is 100% accurate before clicking submit.
4. Opt in to receive email notifications
Part of our online service here at DBSChecks is an optional email notification feature for employers. This means that employers will get an email from us as soon as the DBS check has been carried out and completed.
In other words, rather than waiting for the applicant to get their DBS certificate in the post, which could take days or weeks after the DBS decision has been made, you get it immediately. As soon as the DBS staff have finished their job and the DBS check is done, you will find out, helping you to make your hiring or continued employment decision much more quickly.
Apply online for your DBS Check
If you follow the advice set out above, you’ll be in a good position to get stress-free DBS checks done for yourself or on behalf of your employees or job applicants.
If you’re an employer who relies on DBS checks for a lot or all of your jobs roles, you would benefit from partnering directly with us at DBSchecks.org.uk. We can provide a tailored service to meet your needs, with support there if and when you need it. Our staff are expertly trained to handle any queries or problems you may have.
Get in touch or apply here for your DBS Check online today.
