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CSCS cards

A CSCS card proves you have the right training and qualifications for the job you do on site. Most construction sites in the UK ask to see one.

What every card needs

  1. A recognised qualification for your job
  2. A pass in the CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) test, taken within the last two years
  3. An application to CSCS once you have both

Green card – Labourer

Who it's for
Labourers and general site operatives.
Qualification needed
Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment (or equivalent).
Test
CITB HS&E test – Operatives.

A great first step. Once you work in a trade, an NVQ Level 2 moves you up to the Blue card.

Find my route

Blue card – Skilled Worker

Who it's for
Tradespeople who have completed an apprenticeship or NVQ Level 2 – plasterers, joiners, bricklayers, tilers, plant operators and more.
Qualification needed
NVQ Level 2 in your occupation.
Test
CITB HS&E test – Operatives or Specialist.

Experienced but not qualified? An NVQ Level 2 lets you prove your skills using evidence from the work you already do.

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Gold card – Advanced Craft & Supervisor

Who it's for
Experienced tradespeople (Advanced Craft) and chargehands, foremen and supervisors (Supervisor).
Qualification needed
NVQ Level 3 in your trade, or a Level 3 or 4 supervisory NVQ.
Test
CITB HS&E test – Operatives or Specialist (Advanced Craft), or Managers and Professionals (Supervisor).

Already running a team? A supervisory NVQ recognises the responsibility you have on site.

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Black card – Manager

Who it's for
Site managers, project managers and senior construction managers.
Qualification needed
NVQ Level 6 or 7 in construction management, or another recognised management qualification.
Test
CITB HS&E test – Managers and Professionals.

Manage sites day to day? A Level 6 NVQ is built around the projects you are already running.

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Working towards your NVQ?

If you're registered on a construction NVQ, you may be eligible for a temporary Red Experienced Worker card while you complete it. Ask us whether this applies to you.

Card about to expire?

Most CSCS cards last five years. You can renew from 6 months before the expiry date up to 12 months after it – after that you need to apply for a new card.

You will need:

  • An HS&E test at the right level, passed within the last two years
  • The right qualification for your card – some rules have changed, so check yours still counts

Renew in the My CSCS app, or your employer or training provider can do it for you.

Card rules are set by CSCS and can change. We always check the current requirements for your situation.

Ready to get qualified?

Tell us your trade and experience – we'll recommend the right NVQ and card in one free call.

Get free advice 07832 194695