Losing or misplacing a DBS certificate can be stressful, especially if you\u2019re starting a new job or need it for ongoing employment. Because the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) does not store or reissue copies of your certificate automatically, it\u2019s important to know what to do next. This guide explains the correct steps to follow, your options for verification, and how employers can check your status even without the original physical certificate.<\/p>\n
For guidance on new DBS applications or to start a fresh check, you can visit CRBDirect<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n Unfortunately, the DBS does not<\/em> offer replacement certificates once an application is closed. This applies to both Basic and Standard\/Enhanced checks. The only exception is if your certificate was damaged or never arrived in the post.<\/p>\n If you never received your DBS certificate, you must report it within 93 days<\/strong> of the issue date to request a reprint. After this window, reprints are no longer available, and you will need to apply for a brand-new check.<\/p>\n If your certificate has been lost, stolen, or misplaced, here are your options:<\/p>\n If your certificate didn\u2019t arrive at all, call the DBS helpline and request a reprint. However, you must meet the 93-day rule and confirm your identity.<\/p>\n If you subscribed to the DBS Update Service<\/strong><\/a>, employers don\u2019t need your physical certificate to verify your DBS status. They can check online using your consent and certificate number.<\/p>\n Even if you\u2019ve lost the paper certificate, the DBS can confirm the certificate number over the phone if you answer security questions correctly<\/em>.<\/p>\n If replacement is not possible and you're not on the Update Service, you will need to submit a new DBS application<\/strong>. Employers must see the original DBS certificate to make recruitment decisions\u2014unless you're on the Update Service.<\/p>\n Using the Update Service<\/strong> (if applicable)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Requesting that you apply for a new DBS check<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Reviewing previous employment records<\/strong> (useful if the employer has already seen your certificate in the past)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n Employers cannot<\/strong> legally accept photocopies or digital scans as valid proof because only the original document is considered official.<\/p>\n To avoid problems later, consider these steps:<\/p>\n Join the DBS Update Service<\/strong> within 30 days of receiving your certificate<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Store your certificate in a secure, accessible place<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n Keep a note of your certificate number<\/strong> (especially if you're on the Update Service)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n These simple actions can save you time, stress, and delays in employment checks.<\/p>\n Only if your certificate never arrived or was damaged\u2014and you request the reprint within 93 days. Lost certificates cannot be reissued.<\/p>\n Employers can verify your status online. The DBS can help you recover your certificate number if needed.<\/p>\n No. Only original DBS certificates are valid for recruitment decisions unless using the Update Service.<\/p>\n Yes. If you're not eligible for a reprint and not on the Update Service, a new application is required.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Can You Get a Replacement DBS Certificate?<\/h2>\n
What to Do If You Have Lost Your DBS Certificate<\/h2>\n
1. Contact the DBS If It Never Arrived<\/strong><\/h3>\n
2. Check Whether You Are Registered on the Update Service<\/strong><\/h3>\n
3. Apply for a New DBS Check<\/strong><\/h3>\n
This is the simplest route and ensures employers receive accurate, up-to-date information.<\/p>\nHow Employers Can Verify DBS Information Without a Certificate<\/h2>\n
Options for employers include:<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Preventing Future DBS Certificate<\/a> Issues<\/h2>\n
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FAQs<\/h2>\n
1. Can I get a replacement DBS certificate?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
2. What if I lost my DBS certificate but I\u2019m on the Update Service?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
3. Can employers accept a photocopy or digital copy?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
4. Do I need to apply for a new DBS check if I can\u2019t get a reprint?<\/strong><\/h3>\n