Don’t panic if you’ve lost your DBS certificate. You can obtain a replacement.
In fact, it’s one of the most common queries we get – people asking whether they can get a new copy of their DBS certificate to replace a lost one.
The simple answer is – yes, you can get a free replacement DBS certificate from the DBS, but only if you didn’t receive it and it was lost in the post.
If you have lost it after receiving it, then you may need to apply for a new one and pay the required fee.
Let’s take a more in-depth look at replacing a lost DBS certificate.
If the following reasons apply, then you will not qualify for a free DBS certificate reprint:
The DBS may agree to issue a reprint of a DBS certificate if the following criteria applies:
The processing time for a DBS replacement is up to 5 working days, so when you include delivery time, it usually takes between 7 to 10 working days to receive the reprinted copy, as long as there are no problems with the application.
If 14 days have elapsed since the DBS certificate was issued, you can request a copy, either online or by phone. You can call the DBS directly on 0300 0200190 to request the reprint.
Please note that the DBS will never issue more than one replacement copy of an individual DBS certificate. You can request reprinted versions of basic, standard, or enhanced DBS checks.
As well as offering a reprint service for DBS certificates that get lost in the postal system, the DBS also provides an update service which allows people to get a new DBS certificate when they change jobs.
The DBS update service allows individuals to keep their DBS check up-to-date without having to process another application. The individual pays an annual fee to the DBS and they can log in to the DBS online system which can also be shared with their employer. Both the employee and employer can check on the DBS status and any information held by the DBS.
If you want to apply for a DBS certificate online, find out more about DBS checks here. I f you have any questions about applying for reprinted DBS certificates, or anything else DBS-related, get in touch with one of our expert advisors today.