A CSCS card is a valuable asset to any professional in the construction industry. If you’re the proud owner of a CSCS card but have noticed it is due to expire soon then this guidance is for you. Here are some frequently asked questions around CSCS card renewal.
1. Who are the CSCS?
CSCS stands for the Construction Skills Certification Scheme. It is an organisation that has been leading construction certification throughout the UK since 1995. They primarily provide different cards to workers in the construction industry. These are very much like ID cards that show what kind of skills, experience and training a worker has. As construction is usually project-based, these cards come in very handy. Workers can show employers and contractors their card as proof of their abilities.
2. What are the Benefits of Having a CSCS Card?
CSCS cards are a much quicker and more efficient way of proving your competence than waiting for references for every project. It is not a legal requirement to have a CSCS card but some employers will only hire people who have them. As well as being a quick way to check that their staff know what they’re doing, the cards also help employers to keep their site safe. This is firstly because the card proves that a worker can do the job they say they can, which on a construction site is crucial for safety. Nobody wants somebody with no experience or training to handle heavy machinery. It is secondly because in order to get a CSCS card, the applicant needs to take a Health and Safety test.
3. What Types of CSCS Card are There?
The type of card you have depends on the role you are trained in. Cards are generally referred to by their colour. CSCS card renewal or upgrading helps workers and employers to make the most of the card scheme.
| Card | Colour |
| Labourer | Green |
| Apprentice | Red |
| Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager | Red |
| Experienced Worker | Red |
| Trainee | Red |
| Skilled Worker | Blue |
| Advanced Craft | Gold |
| Supervisor | Gold |
| Manager | Black |
| Academically Qualified Person | White |
| Construction Site Visitor | Yellow |
| Professionally Qualified | White and yellow |
4. How do I Earn a CSCS Card?
You can earn cards by having the appropriate experience and qualifications. The CSCS provides details on exactly which qualifications are needed for each card here.
The College of Contract Management provides several courses that can qualify you to apply for a CSCS card. These include:
- CIOB Level 4 Certificate in Site Management for the White Card.
- CIOB Level 4 Diploma in Site Management for the Black Card.
- NVQ Level 6 Diploma in Construction Site Management for the Black Card.
Additionally, you also need to pass a CITB Health, Safety and Environment test. This costs £21 and you can book it here.
5. How do I Know if my Card is Due to Expire?
How long your card lasts depends on which card you have. Each card has an expiry date on the front, much like a bank card. After the expiry date has passed, employers will no longer accept the card as proof of your abilities.
You can only renew a card between 6 months before and 6 months after this date. If you leave it any later, you will have to re-apply.
6. How do I Renew my Card?
CSCS card renewal makes sure that cards are up-to-date with cardholders’ work experience and qualifications. To renew your card, you must retake the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test described in Question 4. Renewing a card costs £36, so with the cost of the test you will need £57 in total.
Once you’ve taken your test and gathered you money, you can renew your CSCS card by calling this number: 0344 994 4777.
7. What do I do if I’ve Lost my Card?
It’s a good idea to write down the Registration Number on the front of your card. If you lose your card, you can quote this or your National Insurance number to easily replace the card. Simply call the telephone number in Question 6 to request a new card. Replacement cards cost £36.