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Card guide

CSCS card types explained

Your CSCS card depends on your qualifications and your job on site. Compare the four main cards below, see what each one needs, and apply online when you're ready.

Two construction workers in hard hats in front of a steel frame, comparing CSCS card types

How to choose the right card

Start with your highest construction qualification. With no qualification yet, the Green Labourer card is your route in: you'll need the Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment and the CITB Operatives test. An NVQ/SVQ Level 2 leads to the Blue Skilled Worker card, a Level 3 to a Gold card, and a Level 5–7 construction management qualification to the Black Manager card.

Still unsure? Read our guide to which CSCS card you need or apply and we'll confirm the right card as part of our document check.

How our CSCS card application service works

  1. 1

    Tell us about you

    Fill in the online form (about 10 minutes) and choose the card you need.

  2. 2

    Upload your documents

    Photo ID, and your qualification certificate if your card needs one.

  3. 3

    We review everything

    We check your evidence against the card requirements and flag anything missing.

  4. 4

    Pay securely

    Pay online by card through Stripe once your details are in.

  5. 5

    We submit your application

    We apply for your card and keep you updated until it's issued.

What you'll need to apply

  • Valid photo ID (passport or UK photocard driving licence)

  • A CITB Health, Safety & Environment test pass from the last two years (we can book this)

  • Your qualification evidence, e.g. Level 1 Award, NVQ/SVQ certificate

  • Your National Insurance number and a UK postal address

Tower cranes above a busy UK construction site

Found your card? Apply online in about 10 minutes

We check your ID, CITB test pass and qualifications before your application is submitted, so it goes in right first time.

Frequently asked questions

What do the CSCS card colours mean?

The colour shows your qualification level and role: Green for labourers, Blue for skilled workers with an NVQ/SVQ Level 2, Gold for advanced craft and supervisors with Level 3, and Black for managers with an NVQ/SVQ Level 5–7 in construction management.

How long are CSCS cards valid?

The Green, Blue, Gold and Black cards are typically valid for five years.

Do all CSCS cards need the CITB test?

Almost all do. You'll normally need a pass in the relevant CITB Health, Safety & Environment test taken within the two years before you apply.

Related services

Apply for your CSCS card

Choose your card, upload your documents and we'll handle the rest, from evidence checks to submitting your application.

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Leave your number and one of our team will call you back to talk through your CSCS card or CITB test.

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