If you are a sole trader, you can apply for a DBS check for yourself online. The type of DBS check you can get depends on the work you do and who you work with.
Many sole traders choose to get a DBS check to help build trust with customers, meet client requirements, or work in roles involving children or vulnerable adults.
If you are looking for a DBS Check for Sole Traders, you can apply through dbs-check.co.uk.
Can a sole trader get a DBS check?
Yes. Sole traders can apply for a DBS check for themselves.
A sole trader can apply for:
- A Basic DBS check
- An Enhanced DBS check (if eligible through their role and workforce)
A Basic DBS check shows unspent convictions and is available to anyone in the UK.
An Enhanced DBS check is only available for eligible roles, usually involving regulated activity with children or vulnerable adults.
How does a sole trader get a DBS check?
For individuals applying for a DBS check for themselves, dbs-check.co.uk allows sole traders to complete their DBS application online using digital identity verification. This helps reduce delays caused by paperwork, incorrect information, or manual document checking.
Which DBS check does a sole trader need?
The level of DBS check depends on the work being carried out.
Basic DBS check for sole traders
A Basic DBS check is suitable for sole traders who:
- Want to show customers they have been checked
- Need a DBS check for contracts or licensing
- Work in people’s homes
- Are self-employed professionals or freelancers
- Are not eligible for Standard or Enhanced checks
Basic DBS checks only show unspent convictions.
Enhanced DBS check for sole traders
Some sole traders may be eligible for an Enhanced DBS check if they work directly with children or vulnerable adults in an eligible role.
Examples may include:
- Self-employed tutors
- Private hire drivers
- Healthcare professionals
- Sports coaches
- Care workers
- Certain contractors working in schools or care settings
Eligibility rules apply, and not every sole trader can get an Enhanced DBS check.
How long does a DBS check take for a sole trader?
At dbs-check.co.uk, we guarantee* that your:
- Basic DBS check will be completed within 24 hours. A result summary will be available on your account.
- Enhanced DBS check will be completed within 14 days. A result summary will be available on your account.
*See Terms & Conditions for more information.
Why do sole traders get DBS checks?
Many sole traders use DBS checks to:
- Build customer trust
- Meet safeguarding requirements
- Win contracts
- Work with schools or care organisations
- Demonstrate professionalism
- Meet licensing requirements
Some organisations may ask a sole trader to provide a recent DBS certificate before work can begin.
DBS check for sole traders with employees
If you are a sole trader with employees, you may need a DBS checking service that lets you request and manage checks for other people, not just yourself.
In that case, we can recommend three employer-focused options, depending on what your business needs.
Employment Tools by Aaron’s Department
Employment Tools is best for sole traders and businesses that want an all-in-one employment checking platform.
It is suitable if you need DBS checks alongside other checks, such as Right to Work checks, Digital ID checks, reference checks, international checks, and training courses.
All your checks can be handled within one platform, making it easier to see what is going on with every employee.
Quicker DBS
Quicker DBS is best suited to larger organisations or businesses expecting higher DBS volumes.
It is especially relevant for organisations interested in co-branding, white-label DBS software, revenue opportunities, or becoming their own DBS Umbrella Body. With Quicker DBS, they can provide you with a platform that looks, and feels, like your own – without having to do any of the hard work!
Faster DBS
Faster DBS is best for businesses that need DBS checks completed as quickly as possible.
It focuses on super-fast DBS processing, with guaranteed timescales and money-back guarantees if a result is not available within the given timeframe.
Which option should a sole trader choose?
If you only need a DBS check for yourself, apply through dbs-check.co.uk.
If you employ staff, Employment Tools is usually best for wider compliance, Quicker DBS is best for larger or white-label opportunities, and Faster DBS is best when speed is the main priority.
DBS Check For Sole Traders – Apply Today
If you are a Sole Trader looking to get a DBS check for yourself, you can apply with us at dbs-check.co.uk. The application is done completely online, including identity verification, meaning it can be completed in just a few minutes.
DBS Check For Sole Traders – FAQ
Can a self-employed person get a DBS check?
Yes. Self-employed people and sole traders can apply for a Basic or Enhanced DBS check for themselves online.
Can a sole trader get an Enhanced DBS check?
Yes, but only if the role is eligible under DBS rules, usually involving regulated activity with children or vulnerable adults.
What is the fastest way for a sole trader to get a DBS check?
Applying online through a dedicated provider, like dbs-check.co.uk, is the fast way of getting your DBS check.
Do customers ask sole traders for DBS checks?
Yes. Many customers, schools, care organisations, and licensing bodies ask sole traders to provide a DBS certificate before work begins.