If you are self-employed, freelance, or working independently in childcare, education, healthcare, or social care, you may be asked to provide a DBS check before starting work.
The DBS process can be confusing for self-employed workers, particularly when an Enhanced DBS check is required.
This guide explains what you can apply for directly, what you cannot, and the correct route to take.
Can self-employed people get a DBS check?
Yes. Self-employed individuals can obtain a DBS check, but not all levels can be applied for directly.
- Basic DBS check – can be applied for by anyone
- Standard DBS check – role dependent
- Enhanced DBS check – only available through an eligible organisation or approved processing route
In most cases, Enhanced DBS checks cannot be applied for directly by self-employed individuals.
Why can’t self-employed people apply for an Enhanced DBS directly?
Enhanced DBS checks are used for regulated activity, such as working with children or vulnerable adults.
To process an Enhanced DBS check, there must be:
- A clearly defined eligible role
- An organisation to assess and confirm eligibility
- A recognised submission route to the DBS
Without this, self-employed applicants usually cannot complete the application independently.
✔ How self-employed people can get an Enhanced DBS
If you are self-employed and need an Enhanced DBS check, you will usually need to apply through a compliant processing route linked to an organisation or umbrella arrangement.
At Completely Checked, we are able to support DBS applications where eligible by working in partnership with our sister employment business, Completely Care Ltd, an agency operating across social care, childcare, healthcare, and education.
This provides a compliant and regulated route for processing Enhanced DBS applications where the role meets DBS eligibility criteria.
What is a DBS umbrella body?
A DBS umbrella body is an organisation registered with the Disclosure and Barring Service that is authorised to process DBS checks on behalf of individuals or organisations.
They:
- Submit DBS applications correctly
- Verify identity documents
- Ensure DBS compliance rules are followed
- Support correct application routing
Why DBS checks matter for self-employed workers
Many clients and organisations require DBS checks before allowing individuals to work in regulated sectors such as:
- Childcare and early years
- Education and tutoring
- Healthcare and support work
- Social care and community services
A DBS check helps confirm suitability for working with vulnerable groups.
Common issues for self-employed applicants
Self-employed workers often face:
- No employer to process an Enhanced DBS check
- Uncertainty over eligibility rules
- Confusion about application routes
- Delays in starting work
- Working across multiple clients or settings
How Completely Checked can help
Completely Checked supports self-employed individuals who need DBS checks for work in regulated sectors.
We can help you:
- Identify the correct DBS level for your role
- Apply for Basic DBS checks directly
- Access compliant routes for eligible Enhanced DBS applications
- Ensure the process is completed correctly and efficiently
Where Enhanced DBS checks are required, applications are processed via our compliant route in partnership with Completely Care Ltd.
Learn more about self-employed DBS support, pricing and eligibility here:
https://completelychecked.co.uk/what-we-do/#self-employed