Apply for basic disclosure

You can apply online for a basic disclosure about yourself.

Apply for the right service

For a job or volunteering

If you need a basic disclosure for a job or volunteering role in Scotland, use this service, which is provided by Disclosure Scotland.

For a job based in England or Wales, apply to the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Your employer may not accept a basic disclosure check if it's from the wrong service.

For a personal reason

If you want a basic disclosure for personal reasons rather than work purposes, apply where you live – Disclosure Scotland (this service) if you live in Scotland, or the Disclosure and Barring Service if you live in England or Wales.

Apply online

Before you start

You must do your own basic disclosure application.

What you need for your online application

You'll need the following information to hand before you start your online application:

• your address details for the past 5 years
• your National Insurance number (if you have one)
• your passport number (if you have a passport – it can be from any country)
• your driving licence number, for either a full or provisional licence (if you have a licence)
• your non-UK identity card number (if you have one)

You will also need a credit or debit card to pay online.

You may want to have a pen and paper with you to take a note of your reference number at the end of the process. But Disclosure Scotland will send you an email with your reference number as well. You'll need to give your email address when filling out your payment details.

Identity checks

During the application Disclosure Scotland's partner agency TransUnion will try to verify your identity online so your application can be processed more quickly.

This is not a credit check. It will show up on your credit history, but it won't affect your credit rating.

If TransUnion is not able to verify your identity online, you'll need to send copies of your identity documents to Disclosure Scotland.

Payment

You'll need to pay an application fee of £25. You can pay by credit or debit card.

You will not get a refund unless Disclosure Scotland has made an error.

Apply now

Apply using a paper form

You can also ask for a paper application form, but it is quicker to apply online.

Basic disclosure certificate number

If you already have a basic disclosure but cannot find your certificate and need to know your number you can contact us to ask for this. Your certificate needs to be current.

Email: response@disclosurescotland.gov.scot

Phone: 0300 020 0040 Find out about call charges

Opening hours

Monday to Thursday 9am to 4pm
Friday 9am to 3:30pm

Disclosure Scotland are closed on all Glasgow public holidays.