Holding a CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) card has become an essential certification for tradespeople wanting to work on a construction site in the UK, with nearly all site managers now making this a mandatory requirement. 

There are a number of different CSCS cards available to tradespeople, each signifying the kind of work the holder is qualified to carry out whilst on site. To apply for any level of CSCS card, workers must complete a CITB Health, Safety and Environment test. 

Below, we’ve taken a look at the different types of CSCS cards, and the qualifications needed to obtain each one. 

What is CSCS?

CSCS is the leading skills certification scheme within the UK construction industry. CSCS cards are a way of providing proof that an individual has the necessary training and qualifications to safely carry out work on a construction site. 

How many different types of CSCS cards are there?

In total, CSCS issues thirteen different kinds of cards, each designed to reflect the variety of roles and responsibilities held by those working in the construction industry. 

Different levels of CSCS Cards

Green CSCS Card - Green Labourer / General Operative

The Green CSCS card is aimed at those expecting to complete entry-level, manual labour tasks on site and who are not on a recognised training pathway. 

To hold one, applicants must pass a CITB Health, Safety and Environment test for operatives, as well as one of the following qualifications: 

  • The Level 1 (Scotland Level 4) Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment
  • The Scottish Level 5 REHIS Elementary Health and Safety Certificate
  • The NOCN/CSkills Awards Construction Health and Safety (F/618/0738) unit
  • A CSCS-approved alternative qualification. Find more information here. 

Blue CSCS Card - Skilled Worker

Blue cards are issued to experienced workers who have completed the relevant training needed to fulfil their duties on site safely and effectively. The card is awarded to those who have achieved a construction-related NVQ or SVQ level 2, an apprenticeship, or another industry-approved qualification. All applicants must have passed a CITB Health, Safety and Environment test within the last two years at the level relevant to the occupation being applied for. 

Red CSCS Card - Provisional

This is for people working through probationary periods with an employer. You can only apply for a provisional card if you have not held a CSCS card before, and this card can only be applied for once. The card lasts for six months and is not renewable.

Red CSCS Card - Experienced Worker

This temporary card is for workers with on-the-job experience who are registered to complete an approved construction-related NVQ/SVQ level 2, SVQ at SCQF level 5 or higher. The card is valid for one year and cannot be renewed. 

Red CSCS Card - Experienced Card (Technical, Supervisory and Management)

This temporary card is valid for three years, and is available to supervisors, managers and technical workers with on-the-job experience, and who are registered to complete an approved construction-related technical, supervisory or management NVQ/SVQ Level 3, SVQ at SCQF level 6 or higher.

Red CSCS Card - Trainee

Five-year Trainee card (non-renewable)

Valid for five years, cardholders are expected to complete a construction-related qualification by the time the card expires and apply for a skilled CSCS card.

Two-year Trainee card (renewable)

For individuals who have attained an approved Level 2 (or above) occupation-related non-competence qualification within the last five years. Upon the card’s expiry, the holder has the option to apply for a new three-year Trainee card if they can prove they are registered on an NVQ/SVQ course, or an agreed alternative. 

Red CSCS Card - Apprentice

Issued free of charge and available to those on a recognised apprenticeship, the card is valid for four years and six months, and cannot be renewed. 

Red CSCS Card - Industry Placement

The CSCS Industry Placement card is for those currently undergoing a construction-related qualification or training programme which requires the completion of a minimum 30-day work placement. The card is valid for three years and cannot be renewed. 

Gold CSCS Card - Advanced Craft

This Gold CSCS card recognises workers with advanced skill sets, and is available to those who have completed any of the following:

  • A construction-related NVQ/SVQ level 3 or SVQ at SCQF level 6.
  • An approved apprenticeship
  • An employer-sponsored apprenticeship that included the achievement of a City and Guilds of London Institute Advanced Craft Certificate.

Gold CSCS Card - Supervisor

The Gold CSCS Supervisor Card is for experienced professionals who work in a supervisory role and have been awarded a construction-related supervisory SVQ or NVQ level 3 or 4.

Black CSCS Card - Senior Manager

The CSCS Black card is considered the highest level of CSCS card, and is for those who hold senior management positions. To be eligible, the applicant must have passed the CITB Managers and Professionals (MAP) Health, Safety and Environment Test and achieved NVQ/SVQ levels 5, 6 or 7 in a relevant construction management level qualification, or an SCQ at SCQF Level 10 or 11 in a construction management/technical related qualification.

White CSCS Card - Professionally Qualified Person

These White CSCS cards are on offer to those who don’t necessarily hold a construction qualification, but still need to visit a construction site, such as architects and surveyors. To apply, you must be a member of a CSCS-approved professional body, and must pass the CITB Managers and Professionals Health, Safety and Environment Test, or the alternative CIC Health and Safety Test. 

White CSCS Card - Academically Qualified Person

Aimed at those who don’t hold recognised industry qualifications such as an NVQ, this White CSCS card grants access by recognising a number of alternative qualifications, which you can find here.

How do I apply for a CSCS card?

Applying for a CSCS card can be done through the CSCS online portal or via the My CSCS app. 

  • Use the CSCS card finder to find the right type of card for your occupation and level of experience
  • Take a scan of your qualification certificate, proof of qualification registration, or proof of professional body membership. 
  • Book and pass the relevant CITB Health, Safety and Environment test.
  • Pay the £36 application fee. No fees are included for the CSCS Apprenticeship card. 

What are ECS cards?

The Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) is a partner of CSCS and is used to prove competence and qualifications for operatives specifically working in the electrotechnical industry. Those working in an electrotechnical role should apply for an ECS card rather than a CSCS card, and can do so here. 

If you need any more information, the CSCS card finder tool can help you find the level of card that’s suitable for your requirements. 

Editor's Note: Originally published 30 June 2023. Updated 31 July 2025.