What is a CSCS Card?

In the UK construction industry, it is important that everyone on site is competent, qualified and safe to work there. One of the main ways to guarantee this is to ensure everyone on site is holding a valid CSCS card. These have become industry standard since being introduced in 1995, and most contractors and subcontractors will not allow access to a site without one.

Here at Contractwise, we help our clients understand CIS compliance, and we’re experts in all aspects of the construction industry, including having a thorough understanding of CSCS cards. Properly understanding the wider compliance framework that construction workers must abide by helps protect them from HMRC reclassification and other issues. 

In this article, we’ll provide you with a complete guide to CSCS cards.   

What Is A CSCS Cards?

A Construction Skills Certification Scheme card, more commonly known as a CSCS card, is an identification card that proves a construction worker has the necessary training, qualifications and health and safety knowledge needed for their role. 

The card itself does not serve as a qualification and CSCS do not run courses, but it verifies the qualifications a worker holds and confirms the CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) test has been completed. 

While CSCS cards are not mandated by law, the majority of construction sites will insist workers have a card before allowing them on site. These cards are integral for demonstrating that workers are professionally competent. 

Types of CSCS Cards

CSCS offers a whole host of cards, with each different type reflecting experience, role and qualification level. The 12 main card categories are as follows:

• Labourer (Green CSCS Card): For people carrying out basic labouring duties, this card is required. It will require a level 1 health and safety qualification and a valid CITB HS&E test. 
• Apprentice (Red CSCS Card): This card is issued to those who are on a recognised construction apprenticeship course. This is a temporary card and will need to be replaced once the apprenticeship has ended and the individual wants to progress in the industry. 
• Experienced technical, supervisor or manager (Red CSCS Card): These are designed for workers who have significant industry experience and are working towards an NVQ or similar qualification for supervisory or managerial roles. 
• Experienced worker (Red CSCS Card): If you have experience working on a site and are on the way to completing an NVQ or SVQ qualification, this experienced worker card will be the one for you.
• Trainee (Red): This card is suitable for those individuals who are studying a construction-related course or qualification but have not yet gained the qualification. 
• Skilled worker (Blue or gold): There are two main types of skilled worker cards, often the benchmark for competent tradespeople, are the Blue skilled worker card, (This is for workers who have achieved a Level 2 NVQ/SVQ or equivalent) and Gold skilled worker card, also known as advanced craft, (This is for those with a Level 3 NVQ/SVQ or completing an advanced apprenticeship.)
• Supervisory (Gold): This is for site supervisors who have achieved a Level 3 or Level 4 NVQ or equivalent qualification. 
• Manager (Black): This is for construction managers who have completed a higher management level NVQ or SVQ course between Level 4 and 7. 
• Academically qualified person (White): This applies to people who have specific construction-related academic qualifications like HNDs, degrees or equivalent courses. 
• Professionally qualified person (PQP) (White): This is for those people who are members of industry-recognised bodies.
• Provisional card (Red): This is a temporary card that is given to workers who are on probation or during assessment periods.

Do Contractors Need CSCS Cards?

Yes, even though it is not a legal requirement, you will almost certainly need a CSCS card if you work in construction. Most sites will not allow you access if you do not have a valid card. 

Holding a CSCS card offers several benefits:

• Demonstrates professional competence: This reinforces your status as a legitimate worker. 

• Boosts credibility: This will be helpful when bidding for projects or subcontracting work. 
• Career advancement: The CSCS cards show that you hold the relevant qualifications to do your job, which will help you progress to more advanced cards in the future. 

How To Get A CSCS Card

Applying for a CSCS card is straightforward. All you need to do is follow these steps:

Identify The Correct Card

The CSCS website has a handy card finder tool to help you determine the card that you need based on your role, qualification and experience.

Pass The CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test

You will need to pass this test to be eligible for a card. It costs £22.50 and needs to be taken at an approved test centre. There are test centres located across the country. 

Gather Your Documents

To apply, you will need:

• Proof of qualifications (like NVQ/SVQ, apprenticeships and degrees)
• Your CITB test pass number 
• ID like a driving licence or a passport 

Apply Online

You can make your application online through the CSCS portal or the CSCS app. The process will involve you uploading all your documents, selecting the card you need and paying the fee.

How Long Does It Take To Get Your CSCS Card?

After you have submitted your application, you’ll have to wait for approval. This process is normally fairly quick, and you can expect your physical CSCS card to arrive within 3-5 working days. Often, a digital card will be provided much more quickly, sometimes even instantly. 

How Much CSCS Cards Cost?

The typical cost of obtaining a CSCS card is as follows:

• £36: CSCS card fee
• £22.50: CITB HS&E test
• Total: £58.50

How Long Do CSCS Cards Last

Most CSCS cards are valid for five years (unless you have a temporary card), and renewing the card is extremely easy as long as your qualifications remain valid and you still meet all the criteria.  

Final Thoughts

Here at Contractwise, we offer a wide range of CIS services that protect contractors and subcontractors, including payroll audits. For more information on how we can help you stay CIS compliant, get in touch with our expert team today.