Full definition
DBS check is defined as: A DBS check is a UK criminal-record check issued by the Disclosure and Barring Service, used to screen individuals for roles involving vulnerable people, security or trust.
DBS checks come in three levels - Basic, Standard and Enhanced - and are legally required for many regulated roles. The certificate is issued to the individual and shared with the employer or client.
DBS certificates do not formally expire, but most clients treat a check older than 12 months as stale. The DBS Update Service lets holders keep a check continuously valid.