A plain-English guide to the main CSCS cards. CSCS issues thirteen different cards.
Independent, not affiliated with or endorsed by CSCS or CITB
Independent service. CSCS Colindale is an independent service and is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme). You can apply for a CSCS card yourself, directly with CSCS, through the My CSCS app or CSCS Online.
For unskilled workers in labouring roles only. It must not be used by people in skilled occupations, and skilled workers holding a Labourer card will be refused site access.
The first Labourer card is valid for two years. People still in labouring roles can then renew it for five years by completing the Labourer card renewal declaration.
For skilled workers who have achieved a construction-related NVQ/SVQ level 2 (or SVQ at SCQF level 5), or completed a recognised apprenticeship.
Valid for five years. You must have passed the CITB HS&E test within the last two years, at the level for your occupation.
The Gold Skilled Worker card is for those with a construction-related NVQ/SVQ level 3 (or SVQ at SCQF level 6), or a recognised apprenticeship. The Supervisory card is for supervisor and technical occupations with a construction-related supervisory or technical NVQ/SVQ level 3 or 4.
Both are valid for five years. Supervisory card applicants must pass the CITB Specialist Supervisory HS&E test.
For managers and people in technical occupations who have achieved a relevant construction management or technical NVQ/SVQ level 4, 5, 6 or 7 (or SVQ at SCQF level 10 or 11).
Valid for five years. Applicants must pass the CITB Managers and Professionals HS&E test.
CSCS offers a range of red cards for people starting out or still completing a qualification: Apprentice (free, for recognised apprenticeships), Trainee, Experienced Worker, Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager, Industry Placement and Provisional.
Each red card has its own rules and validity. For example, the Experienced Worker card lasts one year and cannot be renewed, and the Provisional card lasts six months and can only be applied for once.
The Academically Qualified Person card is for people with certain construction-related degrees, HNDs, HNCs and similar qualifications. The Professionally Qualified Person card is for members of professional bodies recognised by CSCS.
Both are valid for five years.
Source: Types of CSCS cards, cscs.uk.com (external site run by CSCS), checked 17 October 2026. CSCS rules change, so always confirm the right card with the CSCS Card Finder (external site run by CSCS).