Is it compulsory to apply for a DBS check?

Neither Part V of the Police Act 1997 nor the Exceptions Order 1975 to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974 makes checks compulsory. However, there are other pieces of legislation which makes checks mandatory, for example, it is compulsory for childcare organisations (as defined in the Act) to undertake checks of the Barred Lists for those working in regulated positions.

You can find out more information in the guidance: DBS eligibility guidance