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How to renew or replace a lost CSCS card

Card expiring, expired, lost, stolen or damaged? What you need to renew or replace your CSCS card and how to avoid being turned away from site.

By UK Construction Support team4 min read

Hard hat, gloves and safety gear laid out, ready for renewing a CSCS card

Your CSCS card is how many sites check you're allowed to work. If it's about to expire, or you've lost it, sort it out early so you're not turned away at the gate.

Renewing an expiring card

Most CSCS cards last five years. To renew, you'll normally need a pass in the relevant CITB Health, Safety & Environment test within the last two years, and you must still meet the qualification requirements for that card.

If your last test pass is older than two years, you'll need to resit it before you renew. That's why we recommend starting a few weeks before your expiry date.

What if my card has already expired?

You can usually still apply for the same card, as long as you meet its current requirements. Some sites won't let you on without a valid card, so act quickly.

Replacing a lost, stolen or damaged card

If your card is still in date but has been lost, stolen or damaged, a replacement can be requested using your existing record. The replacement normally keeps the same expiry date as the original.

  • Have your name, date of birth and, if you know it, your card or registration number ready.
  • If the card was stolen, keep any police reference number in case it's needed.
  • If you find the old card after getting a replacement, don't use it. Destroy it.

Upgrading at the same time

If you've gained a new qualification since your card was issued, for example an NVQ Level 2 while holding a Green card, you may be able to apply for a higher card instead of renewing the old one.

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UK Construction Support is an independent support service. We are not CSCS, CITB or any card scheme operator and are not affiliated with or endorsed by them. You can apply for a CSCS card or book the CITB test directly yourself; our fee covers the checking, booking and application support we provide.

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