DBS Checks: ID Requirements
In this article, we will explain the importance of ID requirements as well as describing what they actually are.
But why are ID checks important?
Within a DBS application, an employer must provide guidance on which ID types are necessary. As an applicant, these ID documents must be provided in order to avoid delaying the checking process or making you ineligible.
For this reason, it is important for the applicant to know, as well as the employer, about ID requirements for DBS Checks.
Basic DBS Checks
When applying for the lowest level of check, a Basic DBS Check, there are two ways to prove identity and a third way called route 1a, which is only allowed for non-EEA national applicants.
The first way needs only a single primary identity document attached to one further document.
The second way can only be taken if the first way is not possible. This means that a document from group 2a needs to be attached with two further documents from groups 2a and 2b.
The only exception would be Non-EEA national applicants who apply for a Basic DBS Check for paid work, who must use route 1a. A document from group 1a must then be attached along with one further document from any group. If they are unable to provide the documents required, they will not be able to apply for a check.
No matter what the combination of documents happens to be, they must all be original documents and clearly state the applicant’s date of birth, address, and legal name.
If you require a Basic DBS Check. You can apply for this here.
Standard and Enhanced DBS Checks
When applying for a higher level of check, there are three different ways to prove identity. However, all methods require that the applicant shows their current place of residence.
The first way needs only a single primary identity document attached to two further documents. This is the most popular option since it is the easiest way to follow.
The second way can only be taken if the first way is not possible. Similarly, for the third way, it can only be taken if the second option is not possible.
Types of ID
There are several groups that ID’s are defined in. Different routes require different combinations of these. Group 1 and 1A are both primary identity documents; however, 1A are for non-EEA nationals applicants that need a basic DBS Check for paid work. These groups complete the identity requirements to proceed with route one.
These documents can include: a birth/adoption certificate, biometric residence permit, current driving licence photocard (Uk, Isle of Man, Channel Islands or EEA) or a passport.
The documents mentioned within group 1A are only needed by non-EEA nationals with a permanent or temporary right to work in the UK. On the other hand, it is mandatory for a non EEA applicant to present one of these.
Some documents included are: a valid Biometric Immigration Document, a valid passport showing the holder is exempt from immigration control or is entitled to remain temporarily and perform the work in question, a valid Immigration Status Document indicating the individual is allowed to either stay in the UK indefinitely or stay temporarily and undergo the work in question or a valid Residence Card provided by the Home Office to a family member of a national of the EEA or Switzerland.
There is also group 2a consisting of trusted government documents. Finally, group 2b which consists of financial and social history documents.
If an applicant is not able to present a valid group 1 document they will be required to present multiple documents from both Groups 2a and 2B depending on the route.
Some documents included are: a valid driving licence photocard (Non-EEA countries), a P45 or P60 statement, a marriage/civil partnership certificate (UK, Channel Islands), a HM Forces ID card, a mortgage Statement (UK, EEA), benefit Statement, a utility bill ora visa/work permit.
The government’s list of all the ID types may help if you are unsure.
Information for Non-EEA nationals
There is a slight difference for those who are carrying out paid work and voluntary work. Those who carry out voluntary work must apply using route one, in contrast to those applying for paid work who are in need of a basic DBS Check. They will need to provide a document from group 1A along with one other document.
Those applying for paid work who are in need of a Standard or Enhanced Check will need to follow the paid work route which entails displaying a primary document and two other documents. These documents must be original documents along with primary documents including an allowance to work in the UK and a valid immigration status.
An employer with little experience in handling these documents is advised that they read through the government’s acceptable right to work documents: an employer’s guide.
What an employer should take into account
Employers should do several things when reviewing applications.
They must only accept and review legitimate, valid and original documents – photocopies and scans are not to be permitted. They must make sure that all mentions of name, date of birth, and addresses all match. They must ensure that an applicant mentions any change in name and that it is reasonable like a marriage certificate.
The DBS outlines a list of signs that a document may not be legitimate. It is essential that documents are not fraudulent. If they turn out to be fraudulent or you have suspicions they may be, then do not go ahead with the process.
Summary of ID requirement for DBS Checks
As long as you follow the routes accordingly and provide the correct documents, then the process will be smooth.
If you’re an employer, the DBS provides plenty of help on how to check ID requirements for DBS checks.
If you have any further questions about ID requirements for DBS Checks, or anything else, feel free to get in touch. We are always here to help.