CSCS Cards

CSCS is the leading skills certification scheme within the UK construction industry.

CSCS cards provide proof that individuals working on construction sites have the appropriate training and qualifications for the job they do on site. By ensuring the workforce are appropriately qualified the card plays its part in improving standards and safety on UK construction sites.

Holding a CSCS card is not a legislative requirement. It is entirely up to the principal contractor or client whether workers are required to hold a card before they are allowed on site. However, most principal contractors and major house builders require construction workers on their sites to hold a valid card.

Booking your HS&E test (aka CSCS Test)

Book online

The new seat search function allows you to compare the availability of test centres in your local area simultaneously.

To create your account and search for dates/times: Click Here

Book by phone

To book by phone, call 0344 994 4488. Lines are open from 8am to 8pm (Monday to Friday), and from 8am to 12pm (Saturday).

The line is closed on Sundays and Bank Holiday

What to do on the day of the test

  • arrive at least 15 minutes before your test starts
  • bring your confirmation booking email or letter
  • bring ID that includes your photo and signature; read the full ID Policy here.*
  • After your test, you must keep your Score Report safe as it has important information on it relating to your card application

Cost of the HS&E test

The cost of taking the HS&E test is £22.50.

Types of CSCS cards

CSCS issue a number of cards which reflect the different occupations and qualifications in construction.

Labourer

The Labourer card is for those carrying out labouring duties on site. Do not apply for this card if you work in a skilled occupation. Applicants must have achieved a Level 1 Award or approved alternative.

Apprentice

The Apprentice card is for those registered on a recognised construction apprenticeship and is issued free of charge.

Blue Skilled Worker

The Blue Skilled Worker card is for those who have achieved a construction related NVQ or SVQ level 2, an apprenticeship (such as an Employer sponsored apprenticeship, a City and Guilds of London Institute Craft Certificate or a CSCS Approved Trailblazer) or other industry approved qualification.

Gold Skilled Worker

The Gold Skilled Worker cards is for those who have achieved a Construction Related NVQ or SVQ level 3, an apprenticeship (such as an Employer sponsored apprenticeship, a City and Guilds of London Institute Craft Certificate or a CSCS Approved Trailblazer) or other industry approved qualification.

Manager

The Manager card is available for managerial and technical occupations where an industry approved construction related managerial or technical qualification has been achieved.

If you wish to apply for cards, we recommend using the online service. It’s quick, easy and available when you need it, all year round.

There’s a step-by-step video on how to apply for a CSCS card the CITB’s YouTube channel as well as a handy guide for help with online applications, which you can find here.

Before you apply, please ensure you:

  1. Have a scanned copy of your qualification certificate, or proof that you are registered to complete a recognised construction related qualification relevant to your occupation. To check if CSCS accepts your qualification, you can use the CSCS Card Finder. Select ‘Search by qualification’, type in your qualification and see if your qualification appears.
  2. Have the test ID number from your CITB Health, safety and environment (HS&E) test ready. This can be found at the top of your pass certificate.
  3. Have a credit or debit card to pay the £36 application fee.

Profile pictures are taken when you take the HS&E test and these pictures will be used on your CSCS card, should your application be approved. If you are applying with an alternative to the HS&E test requirement then you will have to provide a passport style photograph as part of your application.

For guidance on making an online application use the CSCS Online instruction guide.

If you hold an existing card

You can claim existing CSCS cards from our previous system. Please follow these simple steps to claim your card.

  1. Once you have created your online account, please select ‘My cards’ from the main menu, then select ‘Claim my card’.
  2. Enter your registration number and the necessary personal details, then press enter.
  3. This will link your previous card to your new online account, while allowing to keep the same registration number.

You can then either renew your card, or apply for the same or a different card.

Please note: If your old card has expired or you hold a Labourer, PQP or AQP card you will not be able to renew. Instead, please make a new application and upload your qualifications when requested.

We deliver a range of courses throughout the week to enable you to apply for your CSCS Card. We also offer free advice to ensure you get the correct card. Please call us on 01482 014118 if you have any queries regarding obtaining a CSCS Card.

Send us a Message

Do you have any questions or want to register your interest? Don’t hesitate to get in touch!