CSCS Red Experienced Worker Card: requirements and how to apply

The CSCS Red Experienced Worker Card is designed for construction workers who already have practical on-site experience but have not yet completed the recognised qualification required for their skilled CSCS card.

It is normally suitable for workers who have at least one year of construction experience within the last three years and are registered to complete an approved construction-related NVQ or SVQ at Level 2, SVQ at SCQF Level 5, or a higher appropriate qualification.

The card allows experienced workers to continue working towards the recognised qualification required for their occupation while holding an appropriate temporary CSCS card.

The Experienced Worker Card is valid for one year and cannot be renewed.

Ideal for experienced construction workers who already perform a skilled occupation but still need to complete the recognised NVQ/SVQ required for their permanent skilled CSCS card.

You should normally have at least one year of relevant construction experience within the previous three years and already be registered with a Training Provider or Awarding Organisation for the appropriate qualification.

Depending on your occupation, this may include experienced tradespeople working towards their first recognised construction NVQ/SVQ.

Typical roles

Depending on the qualification and occupation, this card may be suitable for experienced workers such as:

• Bricklayers

• Carpenters and Joiners

• Painters and Decorators

• Groundworkers

• Plasterers

• Dry Liners

• Roofers

• Tilers

• Formworkers

• Steel Fixers

• Cladding Installers

• Construction Operatives

• Other recognised skilled construction occupations

Your occupation and qualification must be recognised by CSCS, so eligibility should be checked using the CSCS Card Finder before applying.

Proof of qualification registration

Before applying, you must provide evidence showing that you are registered to complete the appropriate NVQ/SVQ.

CSCS may accept a letter, email or other accepted evidence from your Training Provider or Awarding Organisation.

Your registration evidence should show:

• Your full name

• Full title of the NVQ/SVQ

• Qualification level

• Relevant qualification pathway where applicable

• Date of registration

• Confirmation that you are currently registered for the qualification

The registration date must normally be within the previous two years.

A screenshot from an Awarding Organisation's online portal may also be accepted where it clearly shows the required registration information.

Health and safety requirements

You must pass the appropriate CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test within the two years before your application.

The exact test depends on the occupation you are applying for.

Depending on your trade or occupation, this could be:

• CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test for Operatives

• An appropriate CITB Specialist Health, Safety & Environment Test

• Another test level specified by CSCS for your occupation

The correct test should be checked against your occupation before booking.