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How to Obtain a Copy of Your Own Criminal Record in the UK

Criminal record

There are many situations where you might be asked to provide details of your criminal record – from applying for a job or volunteering, to moving abroad, or simply wanting to know what is on file. In the UK, there are a few different ways to access this information, depending on the purpose.

This guide explains the main options, how to apply, and the important differences between each type of check.

Why You Might Need Your Criminal Record

People request their criminal record information for different reasons, including:

  • Employment: Certain jobs, particularly those involving children, vulnerable adults, or positions of trust, require a criminal record check.
  • Volunteering: Charities and community organisations often request checks for safeguarding reasons.
  • Immigration & visas: Many countries require a criminal record certificate when applying for a visa, residency, or citizenship.
  • Personal peace of mind: Some people simply want to see what information the police hold about them.

Understanding the correct type of check for your situation is key.

The Different Types of Criminal Record Checks in the UK

different type of crminal record

  1. Basic DBS Check

  • Shows unspent convictions only (those not yet “spent” under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act).
  • Can be applied for by an individual online.

  • Often used by employers for roles that do not require higher-level checks.

  1. Standard or Enhanced DBS Check

  • Shows both spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings.
  • Enhanced DBS may also include relevant police intelligence and a check against the barred lists for working with children or vulnerable adults.
  • These cannot be applied for by an individual – they must be requested through an employer or organisation recruiting for an eligible role.

  1. Police Certificate (ACRO)

  • Issued by the ACRO Criminal Records Office.
  • Commonly required for visa and immigration purposes (e.g. USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand).
  • Shows details of convictions, reprimands, warnings, and cautions held on the Police National Computer (PNC).
  • Different from a DBS check and a Subject Access Request.

  1. Subject Access Request (SAR)

  • A legal right under data protection law that allows you to see all information the police hold on you on the PNC.
  • Can include convictions, cautions, warnings, reprimands, and sometimes other relevant data.
  • Free of charge and usually processed within one month.
  • Important: A SAR is for personal use only – it cannot be used for employment or visa purposes.

How to Apply

  • Basic DBS Check: Apply directly online through the Disclosure and Barring Service (England & Wales), Disclosure Scotland, or AccessNI (Northern Ireland).
  • Standard/Enhanced DBS: Must be applied for by your employer or a registered organisation.
  • Police Certificate: Apply online via the ACRO Criminal Records Office website.
  • Subject Access Request: Apply online (or by post) via ACRO or your local police force’s website.

You will need to provide proof of identity and address for all of these applications.

Understanding Your Results

  • Spent vs Unspent Convictions: Under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, many convictions become “spent” after a period of time, meaning they do not usually need to be disclosed for most jobs.
  • DBS Checks: The level of disclosure depends on the type of check (Basic, Standard, Enhanced).
  • Police Certificates & SARs: Will typically show all convictions, even if they are spent.
  • Challenging Errors: If you believe the information is incorrect, you have the right to request corrections.

Protecting Your Privacy

All criminal record information in the UK is protected under strict data protection laws. Employers and organisations must have a lawful basis to request checks, and you always have the right to see what information is being held about you.

By applying for the right check in advance, you can make job applications, visa processes, and personal planning smoother and more transparent.

Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Criminal Record

Obtaining a copy of your criminal record in the UK is straightforward once you know which check you need:

  • Basic DBS – for personal use and general employment.
  • Standard/Enhanced DBS – for regulated roles, applied for via an employer.
  • Police Certificate – for visa and immigration.
  • Subject Access Request – for personal records, not for official use.

By choosing the right option, you ensure that you are prepared, your information is accurate, and you are in control of how your background is presented.

For reliable guidance on criminal record checks and verification services, The Background Checker is here to help – ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and peace of mind at every stage.

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Ayesha Tonkin

Ayesha Tonkin is the Head of Business and Client Development at The Background Checker, where she has led client growth and partnerships since 2021. With extensive experience in business development and workforce solutions, she focuses on building strong client relationships and delivering trusted services in the background verification industry.