Cscs Cards - Everything you need to know!
With new regulations being introduced, it’s very confusing to determine which CSCS Card is needed for your continued career in construction. At DMR, our entire focus is on your development and how to correctly progress within government guidelines.
Therefore, we’re here to make it easy for you.
What is the CSCS Card?
A CSCS Card is a mandatory requirement for anybody working on a construction site. It proves to employers that you have the necessary work experience, health and safety knowledge and skills to operate on a site.
How long is a CSCS Course?
That entirely depends on which qualification you’re trying to achieve.
Certain CSCS cards only require a 1-day course. Typically, this is the Health, Safety and Environmental test
However, training for an additional qualification may require a longer period of time to complete the course. These tend to be usually last 2 – 5 working days.
Complex qualifications usually last 2-3 weeks, this is when you’re working towards a full award, or covering multiple trades.
What qualifications do I need for a CSCS Card?
To be eligible for a CSCS Card, you must have passed the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test within the last two years.
It’s also required that you either hold or are working towards completing an NVQ.
Can I get a CSCS without doing a test?
No, it’s a mandatory test required to be completed.
How hard is the CSCS exam?
To pass the exam, you must have 90% of answers correct. That’s about 45 out of 50 questions in total.
It’s typically known that CSCS tests are not as hard, provided you prepare beforehand.
At DMR, we provide a variety of webinars and online resources for those who wish to prepare more for tests more effectively.
Can you take the test at home?
Yes, many courses allow for this but require webcam monitoring.
How hard is the CSCS exam?
To pass the exam, you must have 90% of answers correct. That’s about 45 out of 50 questions in total.
It’s typically known that CSCS tests are not as hard, provided you prepare beforehand.
At DMR, we provide a variety of webinars and online resources for those who wish to prepare more for tests more effectively.
Can you take the test at home?
Yes, many courses allow for this but require webcam monitoring.
What type of CSCS Card do I need?
Different ranks within the industry require individual cards.
- Trainee / Apprentice = Red Card
- Labourer = Green Card
- Skilled Worker = Blue Card
- Supervisor = Gold Card
- Manager = Black Card
Trainees:
There are different types of red cards within the trainee and apprentice sections.
Five-Year Trainee cards are required for those who are currently attempting to qualify for their NVQ. These are non-renewable as it’s very much expected that those who hold these cards will complete their qualification within 5 years.
Two-Year Trainee cards are provided to individuals who have gained their Level 2 or above within their chosen field, demonstrating their competency. These are only handed out to those who have completed their level 1 within the last 5 years. These are renewable.
These cards are required for the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test as proof of registration.
Apprentice:
These CSCS cards handed to workers free of charge.
These are recognised for 4 years and 6 months and can’t be renewed. Similarly to trainees, it’s expected that the apprenticeship role will be completed before their red card expires.
Labourer:
A Labourer card is valid for a total of 2 years when first applied. After renewal, they will last for five years in total. Provided you have evidence of your previous role and career.
You shouldn’t apply for this card if you’re a registered skilled worker, as these are only used for unskilled workers only.
Individuals who held a labourer card prior to February 2025 will be eligible for another 5-year card as long as they have evidence to provide
Skilled Worker
These blue cards are valid for a total of 5 years for those who completed their NVQ at level 2 or completed an apprenticeship.
It’s very important to note that all individuals who have applied must first have completed their CITB Health, Safety and Environment test within the last 2 years.
Supervisor
These gold cards are awarded to individuals who have passed their Level 3 -4 NVQ in a construction-related field.
This card is valid for 5 years before having to be renewed.
Manager
Management black cards are presented to individuals who have completed their Construction Management training at a level 4-7 NVQ
How much does a CSCS Card cost?
Prices tend to differ regarding the level and type of CSCS card. That being said, the basic cost to gain a CSCS card is £36 for the application, and £22.50 for the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test.
Level 1 Health and Safety Courses range from £120 – £150.
However, higher level CSCS cards for Blue Skilled Worker, Gold Supervisory and Black Manager cards range from £1,000 to £2,500. An NVQ Qualification is compulsory for these qualifications.
How do I know which CSCS Card is right under my own circumstances?
Your current level in your construction career should relate directly to your CSCS card. For example, if you’ve completed an NVQ Level 2 in Multi-Trade Operations, then you’ll be considered a skilled worker.
If you are still unsure, you can contact us below, and we’ll be able to get back to you shortly.
Can DMR Training help me get the correct CSCS card?
Yes – Absolutely, it’s why we’re here!
We offer a multitude of support when you undergo training. Such as tailored training, in which we’ll give you guidance on test bookings, CSCS Card Applications, a personal account manager and a bespoke training plan.
We’re also committed to upskilling for anyone who wishes. As we can provide bite-sized training courses to help you understand your role better and to succeed in your chosen speciality.