Understanding CSCS Cards

Understanding CSCS Cards: 

If you're planning to, or currently work in the UK construction industry, you've likely come across the term CSCS Card. With several types available, it can be confusing to know which one suits your role or career path best. Throughout this blog, we explore the CSCS card scheme with helpful guidance on the breakdown for obtaining each card.

At Alpha safety we get calls daily, posing questions such as:

"What CSCS card do I need?"

"If I pass my touch screen test, when will I get my card?"

"Can I use my Green card even if I'm a site manager?"

"My boss wants me to get a Blue card; how do I get one?" 

These are but a few of the typical questions we face daily, so we're here to simplify the process.

In this guide, we'll talk you through the different types of CSCS cards, helping you make an informed decision whether you're just starting out or aiming to advance in your construction career. 

Let's start from the very beginning...So what is CSCS? 

CSCS stands for Construction Skills Certification Scheme. It's a widely recognised certification system in the UK that verifies a workers training and qualifications for safe and competent work on construction sites. 

Employers across the industry rely on CSCS cards to ensure their workforce meets health and safety standards. While not legally required, most construction sites won't allow access without one. 

To learn more, visit the official CSCS website. 

What is a CSCS Card? 

A CSCS card serves as proof that an individual has the necessary training, qualifications, and competency to work safely in construction. 

 

Types of CSCS Cards

CSCS cards are colour-coded to reflect different roles and levels of experience. These include: 

1. Green - Labourers 
2. Blue - Skills Workers
3. Gold - Supervisors 
4. Black - Managers
5. White - Academic or professionally qualified persons 
6. Red - Trainees, apprentices, and experienced workers 

 

1. CSCS Green Card - Labourers Card

The Green CSCS Card is for individuals working in entry-level construction roles or as general labourers. It demonstrates basic health and safety awareness and is one of the most held cards. 

Eligibility Criteria:

To apply for a Green card, you must:

• Complete a level 1 Health and Safety qualification such as the CITB Health & Safety Awareness (HSA) course
• Attend and pass the CITB HS&E Operatives test
• On completion of the two, it is then you can apply for your card (or we can apply for you).

Here at Alpha safety we offer a 3 x part package, whereby you can complete the course, touch screen test, and we'll apply for your card all under one roof. This is a discounted package at just £199.00 (plus VAT), contact us HERE to enquire. 

Expiry:

The Green card is valid for Five Years. To renew, you'll need to retake the CITB HS&E test. If your Level 1 qualification is still valid (5 x years), you won't need to repeat it. 

N.B. As of 1st February 2025 there were changes introduced requiring those previously holding a labourer's card to validify your continued role as a labourer. Details can be found on our website HERE. 

2. CSCS Blue Card - Skilled Worker Card

The Blue CSCS Card is for skilled workers with experience in trades such as roofing, insulation, and roadbuilding.

Eligibility Criteria: 

To apply for a Blue Card, you must: 

• Achieve an NVQ Level 2 or equivalent
• Pass the relevant CITB HS&E Test (operatives or specialist)
• To apply for your card, you would need to evidence both your NVQ/Relevant qualification, and the passing of your touch screen test. 

Expiry:

The CITB test is valid for two years, and the card itself lasts five years. Renewal requires retaking the test and providing updated qualifications if applicable. 

 

CSCS Gold, Black, and White Cards Explained

As you progress in your construction career, you may need a more advanced CSCS card to reflect your skills, qualifications, and responsibilities. Here is a look through the higher-tier cards: 

 

3. CSCS Gold Card - Supervisory & Advanced Craft Card 

The CSCS Gold Card is designed for experienced professionals working in supervisory roles or advanced craft positions. It demonstrates that the holder has the qualifications and competence to oversee teams and ensure safe and efficient operation. 

Eligibility Criteria:

To apply for a Gold card, you must:

• Hold a NVQ Level 3 or 4 qualification in a relevant construction discipline
• Pass the relevant CITB HS&E Test
• On evidencing the two above elements, we can in turn apply for your CSCS Gold card. 

The CITB test is valid for two years, so be sure to apply for your card before this time frame lapses. 

Expiry:

The Gold card is valid for five years. To renew, you'll  need to retake the CITB HS&E test and provide any updated qualifications if required. 

 

4. CSCS Black Card - Managerial Card

The CSCS Black Card is intended for senior professionals in managerial roles. It confirms that the holder has knowledge, experience, and leadership skills to manage complex construction projects and teams. 

Eligibility Criteria:

To apply for the Black CSCS Card you must:

• Hold a minimum of NVQ Level 4 qualification (or higher)
• Pass the CITB HS&E Test Managers and Professionals
• Again, on evidencing the above we can apply for your Black card for you. 

The test is more advanced than others, requiring a strong understanding of Health and Safety legislation, site management, and leadership responsibilities. 

Expiry:

The Black Card is valid for five years. Renewal requires retaking the CITB Managers and Professionals test and submitting a new application all doable here at Alpha Safety. 

 

5. CSCS White Card - Academically or Professionally Qualified Person

The CSCS White card is the highest level card and is available in two categories: 

1. Academically Qualified Person (AQP) - For individuals with higher-level academic qualifications such as HND's, HNC's, NEBOSH Diplomas (NEBOSH General pre 2009 or NEBOSH Construction), CIOB certificates, and university degrees.
2. Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) - For professionals like architects, surveyors, and engineers who may visit construction sites but not site-based.

Eligibility Criteria:

To apply for either of the White cards you must:

• Hold a minimum of Level 7 qualification or an accepted equivalent
• Pass the CITB HS&E Test Managers and Professionals 
• On evidencing the above, we can then apply for your White CSCS card 

N.B. For the PQP Card, you must also provide proof of current membership with a recognised professional body. This would be in the form of a card/certificate, official letter or email from the organisation, or a dates screenshot of your membership status. 

Expiry:

The White CSCS Card is valid for Five years. However, PQP cards cannot be renewed, once expired, you must reapply with updated documentation. 

 

6. Red CSCS Card - Trainee Card

If you're starting out in the construction industry or transitioning in to a new role, a RED CSCS card might be the correct first step for you. These cards are temporary and designed for individuals who are working towards a recognised qualification or gaining experience on-site. 

At Alpha Safety training we're here to help you understand the different types of Red Cards, their eligibility requirements, and how they can support your journey towards a skilled CSCS Card. 

What is the purpose of a RED CSCS Card? 

A Red CSCS Card allows you to begin working on-site while you complete the necessary training/qualification. These cards aren't renewable, but they provide a valuable opportunity to gain experience and progress toward a skilled worker (Blue) or manager (Black) CSCS card. 

Detailed breakdown of each Red CSCS Card:

 

Trainee Card

Ideal for those studying towards a construction qualification. It allows you to gain site experience whilst undertaking your qualification. 

Requirements: 

• Enrolment in a recognised qualification
• Pass the relevant CITB HS&E Test

Expiry:

5 years

 

Apprentice Card

For individuals on a CSCS recognised apprenticeship programme

Requirements: 

• Enrolment in a recognised apprenticeship
• Pass the CITB HS&E touch screen test within the last two years

Expiry:

4 years and 6 months

 

Provisional Card

Designed for new entrants to the industry who are in a probationary period

Requirements: 

• No previous CSCS Card held
• Pass the CITB HS&E Test

Expiry:

6 months 

 

Experienced Worker Card

For those with at least one year site experience and currently working towards an NVQ Level 2 or higher. 

Requirements:

• Enrolment in an NVQ level 2 or Higher
• Minimum one year of relevant site experience

Expiry:

1 year

 

Experienced Technical, Supervisor, or Manager Card

For experienced professionals in a technical, supervisory, or managerial role. 

Requirements:

• Enrolment in an NVQ level 3 or higher
• At least one year of experience in the last three years

Expiry:

3 years

Frequently Asked Questions regarding CSCS cards that we get asked about daily, however please don't hesitate to contact us if you require any more support of which you aren't able to gather from this BLOG.