You and DBS: Sharing is Caring (Unless It's Your Criminal Record, Then Maybe Not)
So, you need a DBS check. Maybe it's for a new job that involves guarding priceless penguin eggs at the zoo (no judgment, that sounds awesome). Perhaps you're volunteering with kittens and the organization requires a peek at your past deeds (to ensure you haven't, you know, stolen any catnip). Whatever the reason, you're staring down the barrel of a DBS application and one crucial element: the elusive DBS share code.
What on earth is a DBS share code?
Imagine your DBS certificate as a digital report card, filled with details about your suitability for a role (but hopefully not your lunchbox trading habits in elementary school). A share code is like a magic key, granting access to this report card for a specific person or organization.
QuickTip: Stop scrolling if you find value.![]()
Don't panic! We're not about to send you on a quest for hidden scrolls or riddles from a grumpy digital librarian. Obtaining a share code is actually quite simple. But first, a heads up: there are two main ways to get your grubby mitts on this code, depending on whether you're the applicant or the one requesting the check.
| How To Get A Dbs Share Code |
Applicant Adventures: Sharing Your Shiny DBS Badge
Congratulations, you've conquered the DBS application! Now, you need to grant access to your potential employer (or kitten rescue organization). Here's your mission, should you choose to accept it:
Tip: The details are worth a second look.![]()
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Gear Up: You'll need your DBS online account, which you probably created during the application process (unless you have the memory of a goldfish, in which case, good luck!).
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Operation: Share Code : Log in to your account and navigate to the mystical land of "Manage Consent" (it sounds more exciting than it is, but hey, gotta start somewhere).
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Choose Your Weapon: You have two options for creating a share code:
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Grant consent to a third party who has a DBS online account: This is for employers who are already set up with the DBS online system. Just enter their info, set an expiry date for the code's access (because sharing is caring, but not forever!), and voila! Code generated.
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Grant consent to a third party who does NOT have a DBS online account: This is for the mom-and-pop kitten rescue down the street that might not be as digitally savvy. The process is similar, but you'll provide their contact details and generate a unique code they can use to view your report (just be sure they're not planning on using it to steal your identity and become the world's leading cat cuddler).
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Remember: Sharing your DBS certificate is a serious business, but it doesn't have to be a drag. Just think of it as showing off your digital resume of good behavior (with maybe a sprinkle of that time you accidentally set off the school fire alarm with a science experiment gone wrong).
Employer Enquest: Wielding the Power of the Share Code
So, you're the employer (or kitten rescue coordinator) and need to see an applicant's shiny DBS report card. Here's your cheat sheet:
Tip: Bookmark this post to revisit later.![]()
Option 1: Applicant Does the Legwork
The easiest route is to simply ask the applicant to share their DBS certificate with you directly. They'll follow the steps mentioned above and grant you access through their online account.
Tip: Keep scrolling — each part adds context.![]()
Option 2: You Take the Reigns (with Permission)
If the applicant isn't DBS-savvy (or maybe a tad forgetful), you can request the check yourself. But remember, you can only do this with the applicant's explicit consent. Once you have their go-ahead, you'll need to register for a DBS online account if you haven't already. Then, you can search for the applicant's certificate using their details (with their permission, of course!).
And there you have it! The thrilling world of DBS share codes, unlocked. Now you can proceed with your background check with confidence (and maybe a few less kitten-related anxieties).