A Guide to CSCS White Cards

If you work in the UK’s construction industry, you’ll be well aware of the necessary emphasis on skills, safety and professional standards. One of the main ways to ensure this is through the Construction Skills Certification Scheme - commonly known as CSCS.

While the green labourer card or black manager card are most commonly known, the CSCS white card is less frequently discussed, but its importance must not be underestimated. It plays an integral role for certain professionals on construction sites.  

At Contractwise, we have a thorough understanding of all aspects of the construction industry, including CSCS cards. Our payroll audits protect contractors and subcontractors, and we’ve put together a comprehensive guide that will outline everything you need to know about the white CSCS card.

Read on for more information…  

What is a CSCS white card?

The CSCS white card, also known as the professionally qualified person or academically qualified person CSCS card, is a card for professionals who play a unique role during a construction project. Unlike other cards that are linked to trade or manual roles, white card holders contribute to projects in a non-manual, technical or academic capacity.

While these individuals will not be physically carrying out construction work themselves, they still play a vital role in the project and will need access to the site. With this in mind, the white card demonstrates that they have the relevant professional memberships, qualifications or academic achievements that align with the industry standards.

A diverse range of professionals hold the white card, including:

• Architects
• Engineers
• Surveyors
• Designers
• Consultants
• And more

This card shows sire managers and contractors that the holder is competent and qualified. So, in short, the CSCS card for a professional qualified person is the white one. 

 

What does a CSCS white card do?

The CSCS white card’s main role is to ensure the holder has permission to enter a construction site for professionals whose job is essential to planning, designing and advising on a project.

While the card itself does not certify skills, it:

• Confirms the holder’s membership with a recognised professional body
• Demonstrates they have passed the CITB health and safety test
• Allows safe access to a site where CSCS compliance is required
• Provides reassurance that construction staff meet competency standards

Requirements for a CSCS white card

To qualify for the CSCS white card, applicants must meet some specific criteria. These will depend on your individual circumstances and depend on the type of white card you are applying for.

Let’s take a closer look at what you need:

Professionally qualified person white card (PQP)

For a PQP, you must be a current member of an approved professional body, such as:

• RICS
• ICE
• CIOB
• RIBA
• CIBSE
• And more

Membership must be valid and provable as part of the application process.  

Academically qualified person (AQP) card

For the academic route, you must hold an approved qualification such as:

• A degree (BSc, MSc, etc) in a construction-related field
• HNCs, HNDs or equivalent
• Approved construction diplomas

All applicants must also pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test to be eligible for the card. This ensures the cardholder understands the health and safety responsibilities, even if they are not carrying out manual work themselves.

How to apply for a CSCS white card

Applying for a white card is fairly straightforward. All you have to do is follow this process:

• Verify eligibility: Make sure you have the correct professional body membership or academic qualification.
• Pass the CITB HS&E Test: Take the test and save your certificate.
• Gather your documents: Ensure you have all the documents you need to support your application, including membership certificates, qualifications or proof of academic achievements.
• Submit the application: Applications are submitted online through the CSCS portal. Here, you’ll upload all your documents and pay the fee.
• Receive your card: Once approved, your physical card will be delivered within a few days or online immediately.

How long is a CSCS white card valid for?

A white CSCS card is valid for five years from the date it is issued. When it comes to renewal, you will need to re-establish proof of membership and qualifications. You will also need to redo the CITB HS&E test to make sure you remain up-to-date with the latest health and safety rules.

Overall, the CSCS white card plays a crucial role in ensuring that professionals entering a construction site have the right qualifications and health and safety knowledge. At Contractwise, we can help you with CIS compliance and minimise the risk of a costly HMRC reclassification. Simply contact us today to find out more.