Why is an Enhanced DBS taking so long?

There are 5 stages in a enhanced DBS check:

Stage 1: Application Form received and validated

Stage 2: Police National Computer searched

Stage 3: DBS Children, DBS Adults and List 99 searched, where applicable

Stage 4: Records held by the Police search

Stage 5: Certificate Printed

Once an application is countersigned by the DBS, i.e. they have no queries regarding eligibility of the job title for that level DBS, the application will usually clear stages 1, 2 and 3 within a couple of days.

If the DBS E0 Application reference number is not shown on the candidate's report, it is likely that the 
application's eligibility is being queried by the DBS. In this case, the Customer Success team can be 
contacted via email or live chat to confirm if any information is needed.

As stage 4 relies on the local Police force searching their records, the time taken to complete this stage can vary depending on where the candidate lives.

If the application has been stuck in stage 4 for 60 days, this will automatically be escalated. Additionally, the candidate can contact the DBS on 03000 200 190 where they will be required to quote the DBS E0 Application reference number, which can be found on the candidate's report or by reaching out to the Customer Success team via live chat.