What is the difference between spent and unspent convictions?

Whether a conviction is spent or unspent affects whether it will show up in a DBS Check.

So, what are the meanings of spent and unspent convictions and what’s the difference between them?

Eligible convictions or cautions become spent after a specified period of time. The length of this period varies depending on the type of disposal administered or the length of the sentence imposed. Until this period has passed the conviction or caution is unspent.

You can see a list of rehabilitation periods for the most common sentences and disposals and example scenarios here.