DBS Check for Self Employed: How to Apply

If you’re self-employed, you may have been asked to provide a DBS check before starting work with a client. This is common for freelancers, contractors, healthcare professionals, tutors, trades people, and anyone working in positions of trust.

The good news is that a DBS check for self employed individuals is absolutely possible – and is straightforward. Self employed individuals can request either a Basic DBS check or Enhanced DBS check.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

• Whether a self-employed person can get a DBS check
• The difference between Basic and Enhanced DBS checks
• How to apply for an Enhanced DBS check yourself
• Where to get your DBS check processed quickly

Can a Self-Employed Person Get a DBS Check?

If you’re self-employed, you can apply for a Basic DBS check directly yourself, or an Enhanced DBS check if you are eligible. Commonly, to be eligible for the Enhanced DBS check, you need to be working with, or around, vulnerable adults and/or children.

How Can A Self-Employed Person Get a DBS Check?

If you are looking for a DBS Check for Self Employed work purposes, you can request it through dbs-check.co.uk.

We provide an online platform that allows individuals to request a DBS check for themselves.

What Type of DBS Check Do I Need?

Basic DBS Check for Self Employed

A Basic DBS check shows any unspent convictions on your record.

It is commonly used by:

• Self-employed tradespeople entering customers’ homes
• Freelancers working with sensitive information
• Contractors applying for public sector work
• Individuals who simply want proof of a clear record

If you are not working with any vulnerable groups, a Basic DBS is often sufficient.

At DBS-Check.co.uk, we process Basic DBS applications the same day if completed before 4pm. We also have a money back guarantee – if your DBS is not completed (a result is available, and it is sent for printing), within 1 working day, we will refund you the admin fee section of your check!

Enhanced DBS Check for Self Employed

An Enhanced DBS check shows:

• Spent and unspent convictions
• Cautions, reprimands and warnings
• Relevant information held by local police
• Barred list checks (if applicable)

Self-employed individuals working in regulated activity – such as private tutors, childminders, carers, healthcare professionals or support workers – usually require an Enhanced DBS check.

Thanks to changes by the Government in January 2026, it is now possible for individuals to request an Enhanced DBS check for themselves, through dbs-check.co.uk.

At DBS-Check.co.uk, we process Basic DBS applications the same day if completed before 4pm. We also have a money-back guarantee – if your DBS is not completed (a result is available, and it is sent for printing), within 14 working days, we will refund you the admin fee section of your check!

How Do I Get an Enhanced DBS Check for Myself?

To apply for an Enhanced DBS check as a self-employed person, you first need to create an account on dbs-check.co.uk. Once done, you need to:

1. Confirm your role is eligible for an Enhanced DBS check – this is done through a very short questionnaire.
2. Complete the online DBS application.
3. Complete a Digital ID check.

That’s all there is to it! Once your ID check has been successfully completed, we will check over your application to make sure there are no mistakes. When this is done, it is sent to the DBS immediately. Unlike other DBS providers, our checks do not sit around waiting to be processed.

You can get started by pressing the button below!

Can You Buy Your Own Enhanced DBS?

Yes – as long as you are legally eligible to request one. Typically, if your role involves working with vulnerable groups, for example as a Carer or Teacher, the role will be eligible.

Why Self-Employed Professionals Choose dbs-check.co.uk

When searching for a DBS check for self employed, speed and reliability matter. We understand that as a self-employed professional, delays can cost you work. That’s why we prioritise fast processing and accurate applications.

Here’s why individuals choose us:

✔ Same-day processing for Basic and Enhanced DBS applications submitted before 4pm
✔ Money-back guarantees
✔ Secure, fully online system
✔ Clear guidance on eligibility for Enhanced checks
✔ Friendly support
✔ No sign up fees

Apply for Your DBS Check For Self Employed Work Today

If you’re self-employed and need a DBS check quickly, apply online today below.

FAQ – DBS Check for Self Employed