Green CSCS Card: Requirements, Cost & How to Apply

A Green CSCS Card is for people who carry out labouring work on construction sites in the UK. To get this card, you need to complete an accepted health and safety qualification and pass the required CITB test. UK Construction Support can help you understand the requirements, arrange your training and prepare your application.

Need help getting started? Contact UK Construction Support for Green CSCS Card application assistance.

The Green CSCS Card, also called the Labourer Card, is designed for people working in general labouring roles on UK construction sites. It shows that the holder has met the basic health and safety requirements for this type of work.

Many construction sites ask workers to hold a suitable CSCS card before allowing them to work. However, the card is not a legal requirement for every site.

It is intended for labourers rather than skilled tradespeople, supervisors or managers.

You can apply for a Green Labourer Card if your main job involves general labouring duties on a construction site.

This may include:

• Moving building materials around the site.

• Keeping work areas clean and clear.

• Helping skilled workers with basic site tasks.

• Loading and unloading materials.

• Carrying out other general labouring work.

People entering construction for the first time can also apply if they meet the card requirements.

If you work in a skilled trade, supervise workers or manage site activities, you may need a different CSCS card. Your card should match the work you actually do, not simply your experience in construction.

Before you apply, you must meet two main conditions. You need an accepted health and safety qualification and a valid pass in the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Operatives Test.

Both are required because they cover different parts of site safety.

Level 1 Health and Safety Qualification

One accepted route is the Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment.

This qualification covers important safety topics, such as recognising site hazards, using protective equipment and following safe working practices. You can complete the required training through an approved course provider. Some providers offer online learning, making it easier to study from home.

The qualification itself does not normally expire, but you should keep your certificate as proof of completion.

CITB Health, Safety and Environment Operatives Test

You must also pass the CITB HS&E Operatives Test. The test checks your understanding of everyday safety situations on construction sites. It includes topics such as accident prevention, health risks, site rules and safe working behaviour.

Your test pass must be within the two years before your card application.

Accepted Alternative Qualifications

You may not need to take the Level 1 Award if you already hold another qualification accepted by CSCS for the Labourer Card. For example, certain recognised health and safety qualifications or construction-related awards may meet this requirement.

Check that your exact qualification is accepted before paying for another course.

Getting your details ready before applying can make the process easier.

You will usually need:

• Qualification certificate: Evidence of your accepted health and safety qualification.

• CITB Testing ID: Your test details so your HS&E result can be checked.

• Personal information: Your full name, date of birth and contact details.

• Proof of identity: A valid ID document if requested during the application.

Make sure your personal details are correct and consistent across your records. Incorrect information may delay your application.

The total cost of getting a Green CSCS Card depends on whether you already have the required qualification and CITB test result.

Here are the main costs:

The £36 card fee applies when you submit your application directly to CSCS. The CITB test costs £23.50 when booked directly. If you already meet both requirements, you may only need to pay the card application fee.

UK Construction Support may charge separately for training arrangements, test booking or application assistance. Ask for the full price before booking so you know exactly what you are paying for.

If you are applying for the first time, arranging each requirement separately can take extra time. A Green Card Bundle can help you organise the main steps in one place.

The package may cover:

• Level 1 Health and Safety course registration.

• CITB Operatives Test booking assistance.

• Guidance on the documents you need.

• Support with your CSCS card application.

The bundle price varies according to the services included. Check whether the course, test and card fees are covered before making payment. This option may be useful for new applicants who want help understanding the process.

Contact UK Construction Support to check the available bundle options and total cost.

A Green CSCS Card issued to a first-time applicant remains valid for two years. This rule came into effect on 1 February 2025. If you are still working as a construction labourer when your first card expires, you may qualify for a longer renewal.

Eligible workers can receive a five-year Labourer Card after providing the required evidence of their job role. Renewal is not automatic. You must meet the current CSCS conditions and provide the correct information.

Check your card's expiry date and start preparing your renewal before it runs out.

If your card is close to expiry, check whether you still qualify for the Labourer Card.

To renew, you should:

1. Confirm your job role: Make sure you are still carrying out general labouring duties.

2. Complete the declaration: Provide the Labourer Card Renewal Declaration Form or accepted evidence of your employment.

3. Check your CITB result: For renewal of your first two-year card, the original test pass can be accepted for up to three years. Other renewals normally require a pass from the last two years.

4. Submit your renewal: Apply through the My CSCS app with the required details.

You can also contact UK Construction Support if you need help understanding the renewal process.

Applying for a construction card can feel confusing when you are unsure which course or test you need.

UK Construction Support offers assistance to help you understand the process and prepare your application.

You can contact the team for help with:

• Understanding the Green Labourer Card requirements.

• Finding a suitable health and safety course.

• Arranging your CITB test booking.

• Preparing the details needed for your card application.

• Understanding card renewal requirements.

UK Construction Support is an independent service provider, not CSCS or CITB. Card approval remains subject to the official CSCS requirements.