How to Get a CSCS Card in the UK (2025 Guide) | Steps, Costs & Requirements
Nov 19, 2025
How to Get a CSCS Card and Start Your Construction Career (2025 Guide)
A CSCS Card is one of the key qualifications for anybody entering the construction industry in the UK, whether you are looking for a labourer position, perusing an apprenticeship, or moving into a skilled occupation. Having a valid CSCS Card means that you have proven your knowledge of health and safety to a required standard, which makes you more employable.
The aim of this guide is to explain what a CSCS Card is, who requires one, how to apply, cost, which tests you need to take, and how to gain access to a successful construction career in 2025.
What is a CSCS Card?
A CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) Card is an industry recognised form of identification that demonstrates you have the right health, safety and training standards to work on UK construction sites.
Most of the larger employers and contractors will expect that workers have the right CSCS Card before allowing them access to the site.
Importance of a CSCS Card in 2025
As safety requirements become more stringent and the demand for skilled labour grows, employers are looking for individuals that meet compliance. A CSCS Card assists you in the following areas:
- Enhancing your employability
- Enhancing access to better entry-level and skilled positions
- Providing evidence of knowledge of site safety policies
- Increasing long-term wage prospects
- CSCS Cards Types (2025 Update)
- Labourer (green card)
This is generally for new starters, general labourers, and entry level roles.
- Skilled Worker (blue card)
This is for workers that have an NVQ Level 2 for their specific trade.
- Advanced Craft / Supervisor (gold card)
This is for workers that have an NVQ Level 3 or greater and supervisors / foreman's.
- Manager (black card)
This is for managers that have an NVQ Level 6 or 7.
- Apprentice Card
This is for apprentices in training towards a construction role.
- Academically Qualified Person (AQP) Card
This is for workers that have an appropriate degree for their role.
- Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) Card
This is for members of professional bodies within the construction profession e.g. RICS, CIOB, ICE etc.
Understanding the card type required means the process becomes clearer and simpler.
Step by Steam: How to Apply for a CSCS Card (2025 application process)
Step 1: Know the correct card for your role.
Consider your experience and the vacancy or job you are applying for.
New starters or beginners are usually involved in the Green Labourer Card.
Skill workers can apply for a Blue or Gold card depending on their NVQ level.
Step 2: Ensure You Meet the Required Qualifications
Most cards require the following:
- Green Card → Level 1 Health & Safety in a Construction Environment
- Blue/Gold Cards → NVQ or SVQ in your trade
- Black Card → Manager NVQ Level 6/7
If you do not have an NVQ, you may have to complete one before you can apply.
Step 3: Book and Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test.
This is the vital test you must pass for each application.
The test costs £22.50 and takes 45 minutes.
There are three types of tests:
- Operatives Test (for most workers)
- Specialist Test (for trades such as plumber, demolition, or scaffolding)
- Managers and Professionals Test.
- You must have passed the test within 2 years of your application.
Step 4: Make Your Application for Your CSCS Card.
You will need to do an online application on the CSCS website.
You will need your CITB test score report, your qualification certificates, and a photo (passport style).
CSCS Card Cost (in 2025) will be £36.
CSCS Cards typically arrive within 7–10 working days.
How long does a CSCS Card last?
Most CSCS Cards are given for 5 years, and you can apply to renew your card as long as your qualifications are valid.
Starting Your Career in Construction with a CSCS Card
- Decide What Area You Want to Go Into
Two things to consider:
- Labourer
- Apprentice
- Skilled tradesperson
- Plant operator
- Site admin or trainee
- Develop Your CV
Make sure you indicate:
- Type of CSCS Card type you hold
- Any training and certifications
- Any site experience
- Health & safety awareness
- Start to Apply Via Trusted Job Boards
For example ConstructionJobBoard.co.uk is a job board specifically for UK construction roles. Realistically if you have the CSCS Card you will see somebody post something as ConstructionJobBoard.co.uk has every possible job even court cases.
- Get some experience and upskill.
The more and higher qualifications you achieve (NVQs, SMSTS, SSSTS) the quicker you will find yourself in higher paying jobs.
What can you do after this with you CSCS Card ? An opportunity for career progression.
You could be getting into the are you qualified for if you have an opportunity to use your CSCS card fr term-time contracts or supplies or------------
Skilled trades (electrician/plumber/carpenter/bricklayer)
- Become a plant operator
- Supervise in
- Do health & safety
- Become a site manager
- Qualified to get into site managers Card later.
With some time and further qualifications you could be doing as much as a gold or even black card and even multi-tier increases in salary.
In conclusion, a CSCS Card is the first and most valuable
stepping stone into the United Kingdom construction industry.
What we highlighted is all very straightforward as you simply choose the right card to get as well as pass the CITB test, submit documents and off you go with job applications. Some like the 2025 Construction Lens it is a rapidly growing time to enable you to achieve a long-term satisfying career.
SEO-Optimised FAQs
1. What is a CSCS Card and why do I need it?
A CSCS Card proves you have the required health and safety knowledge to work on UK construction sites. Most employers require it for entry, making it essential for starting a construction career.
2. How do I apply for a CSCS Card in 2025?
To apply, you must pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test, complete the required qualification (such as Level 1 Health & Safety or NVQ), and apply online through the official CSCS website.
3. How much does a CSCS Card cost?
The CSCS Card application fee is £36, and the CITB test costs £22.50.
4. How long does a CSCS Card last?
Most CSCS Cards are valid for five years and can be renewed if your qualifications remain valid.
5. Which CSCS Card should I apply for?
Beginners typically need the Green Labourer Card, while skilled workers apply for the Blue or Gold Card depending on their NVQ level.
6. How long does it take to get a CSCS Card?
Once you apply online, your CSCS Card usually arrives within 7–10 working days.
7. Do I need an NVQ to get a CSCS Card?
Some cards require an NVQ (Blue, Gold, Black), but the Green Labourer Card only requires a Level 1 Health & Safety qualification.
