From 26 February 2024, all applicants for a taxi or PHV driver's licence, whether new or renewing, must provide evidence of registration with the DBS Update Service. This is a mandatory requirement, and licences will NOT be issued without proof of registration.

After completing your DBS application with First Advantage and verifying your documents at the post office, please allow a few days to receive your application reference number via email. This reference number is required to subscribe to the TfL Update Service.

If you do not receive the email, contact First Advantage at 0800 032 213 to request your application reference number.

The DBS Update Service is a subscription-based service provided by the UK government that allows you to keep your Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate up to date and allows employers to check it online. Here’s how to register for and use the DBS Update Service:

1. Eligibility

You can register for the DBS Update Service if you:

• Have recently applied for a DBS check and received your certificate (or are in the process of applying).
• Register within 30 days of the issue date on your DBS certificate.

2. Steps to Register

A. Before You Start:

• Ensure you have your DBS certificate or the DBS reference number (if your application is in progress).
• Have your personal details ready (name, address history, date of birth).
• A valid payment method for the subscription fee.

B. Register Online:

1. Visit the DBS Update Service website.
2. Click on "Start now" and follow the instructions.
3. Enter your DBS certificate reference number or the application reference number (if you don’t have your certificate yet).
4. Complete the registration form with your details.
5. Pay the annual subscription fee of £16 per year (free for volunteers).

3. After Registration

• You’ll receive a confirmation email with your subscription details.
• Keep your DBS certificate safe, as employers will need to view it when performing checks through the Update Service.

4. Managing Your Subscription

• You can renew your subscription every year before it expires. Set a reminder to avoid gaps in your service.
• If you let your subscription lapse, you’ll need to apply for a new DBS check to rejoin the service.

5. Benefits of the DBS Update Service

• No need for repeated DBS checks: If you switch jobs or roles within the same workforce type (e.g., working with children or vulnerable adults), your existing certificate can be reused.
• Quick verification for employers: Employers can instantly check your DBS status online.