DBS Code

This page translates the official guidance into plain English for tutors, parents, schools and tutoring organisations.

DBS Code is a compliance-style query, usually about how DBS information can be used, shared, or verified. That means thinking about the code of practice, consent, storage, and the difference between a certificate, a status check, and an online share process.

This page turns the official guidance into a tutor-friendly explanation, keeping the wording simple without losing the important legal distinctions around level, route, and eligibility.

Need a tutor-focused next step?

Use the apply-now page when you want to move from explanation to action.

Open the tutor DBS route

Quick takeaways

  • DBS data is sensitive and must be handled lawfully.
  • Consent and lawful entitlement matter before a status check is run.
  • Certificate information should only be used for the purpose it was obtained for.
  • Sharing or storing DBS information casually is bad practice.

Compliance basics

Code and compliance pages sit slightly differently from ordinary explainers because the main issue is lawful handling, not just definition. DBS information is sensitive, and the people using it need to think about purpose, entitlement, consent and storage.

That is why the code of practice matters. It is about fair use, correct handling and recruitment decisions, not casual reuse of sensitive certificate information.

  • DBS certificate information should be used only for the purpose it was obtained for and usually destroyed after no more than 6 months, in line with the code of practice and handling guidance.

People sometimes search for ‘DBS code’ when they really mean share code, code of practice, or a provider-specific reference number. A good page separates those meanings so they do not get mixed up.

That is especially important because mixing them up can lead to sloppy handling of sensitive data.

Ready to stop comparing routes?

This site is designed to make the decision clear first, then point you to the next practical step.

Go to /apply-now

Tutor takeaway

The point of compliance is not red tape for its own sake. It is there to make sure sensitive criminal-record information is used fairly and only where it is actually relevant.

The safest next step is not to guess. Confirm the role, level and route, then move to the apply-now page when you want a tutor-focused process rather than another explainer.

Common questions

What does the DBS code of practice cover?

It covers fair use, lawful handling and the proper treatment of certificate information.

Yes. Consent and legal entitlement are both required.

Can DBS certificate information be shared freely?

No. It should only be used for the purpose it was obtained for and handled carefully.

Because tutoring often involves sharing sensitive information with families, agencies or schools, and that sharing has to be done properly.

Done with the research phase?

When you are ready to move forward, the next step is on the apply-now page.

Open the apply-now page