Get Started With Fast Online CRB Checks
A CRB Check is now known as a DBS Check. Quicker DBS helps organisations request Basic, Standard and Enhanced DBS checks online through a fast, simple and professional system designed to reduce delays and improve safeguarding.
What is a CRB Check?
A CRB Check is the old name for what is now called a DBS Check.
The Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) merged with the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA) in 2012 to become the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Even though the name changed over 10 years ago, many people and organisations still search for terms such as CRB check, CRB application, CRB certificate and Criminal Record Bureau check.
Today, DBS checks are used by employers, charities and organisations to help make safer recruitment decisions, particularly for roles involving children, vulnerable adults, finance, healthcare, education and regulated activity.
CRB Checks and DBS Checks are the Same Service
If you are searching for a CRB check online, what you actually need is a DBS check.
Quicker DBS provides online DBS checks for organisations across the UK, including:
- Basic DBS Checks
- Standard DBS Checks
- Enhanced DBS Checks
- Enhanced DBS Checks with Barred Lists
- Volunteer DBS Checks
- Digital ID Checks
- Umbrella Body DBS Services
- White-Label DBS Solutions
Types of CRB Checks
There are three main levels of DBS check available. The correct level depends on the role being carried out and whether the position is legally eligible for a higher level check.
| Type of Check | What It Shows | Who Uses It? |
|---|---|---|
| Basic DBS Check | Shows unspent convictions and conditional cautions. | Can be requested for any role or individual. |
| Standard DBS Check | Shows spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings. | Roles eligible under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act Exceptions Order. |
| Enhanced DBS Check | Includes Standard DBS information plus relevant police information. | Roles involving children, vulnerable adults and regulated activity. |
| Enhanced DBS with Barred Lists | Enhanced DBS information plus barred list checks where legally allowed. | Regulated activity with children and/or vulnerable adults. |
Why Organisations Use Quicker DBS for CRB Checks
Quicker DBS has been designed to make DBS checks faster, easier and more manageable for organisations of all sizes.
Same-Day Processing
All DBS applications received before 4pm are processed the same day to help reduce delays.
No Paper Forms
Applicants complete everything online, reducing printing, posting and unnecessary admin.
Automatic Tracking
Track applications online and receive automatic updates as the DBS check progresses.
Built-In Error Checking
Our system helps identify common mistakes before submission, helping avoid delays and rejections.
No Contracts
No registration fees, no minimum usage requirements and no long-term contracts.
Dedicated Support
Our experienced DBS support team is available to help organisations and applicants when needed.
What is an Exempted Question?
An exempted question is a valid request for a person to reveal their full criminal history, including spent convictions.
Standard and Enhanced DBS checks are only available where the organisation is legally entitled to ask this exempted question under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.
These checks are normally used for specific occupations, licences and positions involving trust, safeguarding or regulated activity.
Not Every Role Can Have an Enhanced DBS Check
Many employers incorrectly assume they can request any level of DBS check for any role. However, the role must be legally eligible for a Standard or Enhanced DBS check.
Quicker DBS helps organisations request the correct level of DBS check to help maintain compliance and avoid unnecessary delays.
How Much Does a CRB Check Cost?
The cost of a CRB check depends on the type of DBS check required and any administration fee charged by the provider.
At Quicker DBS, we keep our administration fees as low as possible while still providing fast processing, support and a professional online system.
| Check Type | Government Fee | Additional Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Basic DBS Check | £21.50 | Plus a small admin fee. |
| Standard DBS Check | £21.50 | Plus a small admin fee. |
| Enhanced DBS Check | £49.50 | Plus a small admin fee. |
Need Pricing for Multiple DBS Checks?
Quicker DBS supports organisations of all sizes, including charities, care providers, recruitment agencies, schools and national employers.
For organisations carrying out multiple DBS checks, we can provide tailored pricing and support based on your requirements.
Get Started With Fast Online CRB Checks
Whether you need Basic, Standard or Enhanced CRB checks, Quicker DBS helps organisations process applications quickly through a secure, easy-to-use online system built to support safer recruitment and reduce unnecessary delays.
More Than Just CRB Checks
Quicker DBS provides more than just online DBS checks. Our platform is designed to help organisations manage recruitment and compliance more efficiently.
Digital ID Checks
Reduce delays with secure digital identity verification options.
Volunteer DBS Checks
Support safer volunteering with online volunteer DBS processing.
White-Label DBS Solutions
Offer DBS checks under your own brand through our white-label service.
Umbrella Body Services
Use Quicker DBS as your trusted DBS Umbrella Body provider.
Online Tracking
Track DBS applications and progress updates online from one place.
Support for Organisations
We support employers, charities, schools, healthcare providers and recruitment agencies across the UK.
Does Having a Criminal Record Stop Someone Getting a Job?
Having a criminal record does not automatically stop someone from getting a job.
Many employers assess criminal record information based on factors such as:
- the type of offence
- how long ago it happened
- whether it is relevant to the role
- the level of safeguarding involved
- legal or regulatory requirements
DBS checks are designed to help employers make informed recruitment decisions rather than automatically preventing employment.
CRB Check FAQs
Is a CRB check the same as a DBS check?
Yes. CRB checks became DBS checks when the Criminal Records Bureau merged with the Independent Safeguarding Authority in 2012.
Can I still apply for a CRB check?
Yes, but the correct name is now a DBS check. Quicker DBS provides online DBS checks for eligible organisations and individuals.
What are the different types of CRB checks?
The three main levels are Basic DBS checks, Standard DBS checks and Enhanced DBS checks.
Can any employer request an Enhanced DBS check?
No. The role must be legally eligible for an Enhanced DBS check.
How long does a DBS check take?
Timescales vary depending on the level of check and any police involvement, but submitting applications online can help reduce delays.
Why use Quicker DBS?
Quicker DBS offers same-day processing, online applications, automatic tracking, dedicated support and a modern system designed to reduce admin and delays.
Get Started With Fast Online CRB Checks
Whether you need Basic, Standard or Enhanced CRB checks, Quicker DBS helps organisations process applications quickly through a secure, easy-to-use online system built to support safer recruitment and reduce unnecessary delays.