ID requirements
You will be contacted by your organisation to attend a face-to-face ID checking meeting. You will need to bring all the relevant documentation for checking.
View the ID checking guidelines
You'll have the option of completing your application there and then. If you choose to do it at a later date then you will be asked to provide your personal email address so that login details and a link to the eDBS system can be sent out to you.
If you don't receive your login details then you should check your email spam folder or contact your ID checker directly.
Completing your application
If you are completing an application after your ID check make sure that you have your ID documents to hand.
You will be asked questions in relation to the ID documents that you took to your check and you will need to answer security questions that were discussed at your meeting. You will also need your National Insurance number.
Please note: You must complete the application in a single session as it is not possible to save a partially completed application. The system will close your application if there is no activity for 10 minutes.
Login to make your DBS application
Unusual addresses
You may find it difficult to complete your address history for the last 5 years if you have:
- lived abroad
- been homeless
- been in the armed forces
Refer to the DBS Unusual Address Guide
Problems logging in
If you have any problems accessing the eDBS system you can refer to our help page for common problems.
Help completing your application
If you need help completing your application you can click on the Help on/off button changing it to Help on. You will then see pop-up boxes appear to the right-side of the application.
If you still need help you can contact the helpdesk on 03330 135 888 or email dbs.servicecentre@essex.gov.uk
Correcting mistakes on your application
It is really important that information is entered correctly on the eDBS system. Once an application has been submitted it can't be amended.
If you've made a mistake you need to contact the ID checker immediately so they can cancel the application and arrange for a new one to be completed.
Tracking progress
Once your application is submitted to eDBS, the person managing your check can provide an e-reference number which can be used to log into the DBS online tracking system.
How long will it take?
Although some checks can be completed within 48 hours, most are completed within 6 – 8 working days.
In some cases however there are delays. If your DBS application has been with the Local Police Force (LPF) for 60 days then your check will automatically be escalated by the eDBS Service.
If the DBS application is still outstanding 14 calendar days after it has been escalated then you can contact the DBS on 03000 200 190 to find out which police force are holding up your check. You are advised to contact them directly to make them aware of any issues that the delay is causing.