What is the CSCS Black Card, and How to Get It

The CSCS Black Card proves the cardholder is qualified to take a managerial position at a construction site. This blog covers a CSCS Black Card, its value in the construction industry, and how to get one.

What is a CSCS Black Card?

The CSCS Black Card is one of the many types of CSCS cards. It's for individuals who aspire to upgrade to a managerial role and oversee operations on the construction site.

The CSCS Manager's Card is issued by the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS), a nationally recognised body in the UK. CSCS certifies individuals for their roles and responsibilities at construction sites. The card demonstrates that the holder possesses the appropriate skill set and knowledge to undertake their duties as a manager at a construction site.

If you currently hold a CSCS Blue Card or CSCS Gold Card and want to upgrade to a Black Card, you must pass a relevant NVQ and the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment test for Managers and Professionals (MAP).

How to Get a Black CSCS Card?

Now that you know what a CSCS Black Card is. Here's what you need to do to apply for it:

Step 1: Complete NVQ/SVQ Level 4, 5, 6, or 7

Complete a relevant Construction Management/Technical related NVQ/SVQ Level 4, 5, 6, or 7 or an SVQ at SCQF Level 10 or 11 in a Construction Management/Technical related qualification

Step 2: Pass the CITB (MAP) Test

Pass a CITB Health Safety and Environment Test for Managers and Professionals (MAP). This assessment evaluates your ability to respond to situations involving the chance of loss or injury as a manager on the site.

At Hurak, we handle all the arrangements to ensure your CITB test reservation is secured effortlessly. Reserve your test today!

Before you attempt the CITB test, you should take a free mock test exam. Check out our mock test exam video below. This video features 40 practice questions and answers covering key topics you'll encounter on the CITB MAP test.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ht5pbN5QmVw&t=1s

Step 3: Apply for the CSCS Black Card

Create an account on the CSCS online portal, enter the required details, and apply for the card. Make sure you have the following documents with you:

• An acceptable management qualification certificate (scanned copy)

• Test ID number of the CITB HS&E MAP Test

• A credit or debit card to pay £36

You can also call CSCS on 0344 994 4777 to apply for the card. After initial approval, you will receive your card in 3-5 days. If you apply over the phone, it may take a little longer.

How Long is the Black CSCS Card Valid for?

The validity of this CSCS card is 5 years, after which it requires renewal.

What Does a CSCS Black Card Cost?

The cost of applying for a CSCS card is the same for all types of CSCS cards, which is £36.

The total cost of getting a CSCS Black Card involves the relevant NVQ or SVQ qualification fee, CITB test cost, and CSCS Gold Card application cost. Generally, the fee for enrolling on a Level 4, 5, 6 or 7 NVQ in construction ranges from £700 to £1,000. The cost of a CITB test is £23.50, while the CSCS card application fee is £36. The sum of these costs is the actual cost of getting a CSCS Black Card.

Can You Get a CSCS Black Card without an NVQ?

No, you won't be able to get a CSCS Black Card without a relevant NVQ/SVQ. Even years of experience in the industry as a manager wouldn't help you. CSCS has made it mandatory for anyone pursuing the CSCS Black Card to complete the construction management/technical-related NVQ level 4 or higher.

To become eligible for a CSCS Black Card, you can enrol in the Level 6 NVQ in Construction Site Management course. This qualification is assessed on-site, meaning you don't have to take time off work and can do it while on the job. It takes between 4 and 6 months to complete and helps increase job prospects for cardholders.

Can You Get a CSCS Black Card with SMSTS?

Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is part of CITB Site Safety Plus (SSP) courses. Although it is very good for managers or individuals pursuing a managerial role to complete the SMSTS course (and some employers may even make it a mandatory requirement for managers), unfortunately, you cannot get a CSCS Black Card with just the SMSTS certification.

Note: Since this 5-day course is for managers responsible for maintaining safety standards on a construction site, many mix it up with the CSCS Black Card.

How Will the Godfather Rights Scheme Impact Your Position as a Card Holder?

Previously, CSCS issued cards to candidates based on the strength of the employer's recommendation, but there has been a recent shift in policy. This alternative scheme, called Industry Accreditation or Godfather Rights, will expire on 31 December 2024.

''Following the closure of the Construction Related Occupation card and the Construction Site Visitor Card, cards gained by Industry Accreditation are the only cards in the CSCS scheme which do not require the cardholder to achieve a recognised qualification. Industry Accreditation does not support industry's desire for a fully qualified workforce and as such it will be withdrawn.''
- Graham Wren (Chief Executive at CSCS) (NVQ).

If you have obtained a CSCS Black Card through the Godfather Rights Scheme without the relevant NVQ/SVQ, remember that it wont help you in the long run. The only route that will work, unless CSCS says otherwise, is the process described above.

How to Renew Your Card?

To renew your Black Card, submit the documents below to CSCS. Please read our card renewal guide for a step-by-step breakdown of what you must do.

• Renewal Application Form

• Expired CSCS Black Card

• Identity proof

• Qualification proof

• CITB Test ID Number

• Employment Details

You have a 12-month window to submit a renewal application, either six months before or after the card's expiry date.

How is the Black Card Different from Other CSCS Cards?

The CSCS Black Card is one of the highest-level of CSCS cards. It shows you're an experienced site manager and have a recognised qualification to back it up. The colour of the CSCS cards indicates who it's intended for for instance, the CSCS Green Card suits labourers, the Blue Card is for skilled workers, the Gold Card is for supervisors, and the White Card is best suited for individuals with HNDs, HNCs or degrees. Also, if you temporarily require a CSCS card to buy you time to complete the qualification, the CSCS Red Card would do.

The time it takes to complete the required training and examinations for a specific CSCS card can vary widely based on the type of card you're applying for. A CSCS Black Card might take 12-18 months to get, whereas to get a CSCS Green Card, you'll need to attend a one-day health and safety course, book and pass the CITB Operatives test, and apply for your card, so the entire process for a CSCS Green Card can be completed within a week!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is the CSCS Black Card for?

The CSCS Black Card is for experienced construction site managers.

How do I get a CSCS Black Card without an NVQ?

No, you cannot get a CSCS Black Card without an NVQ. You must complete a relevant NVQ, pass the CITB test, and apply for the CSCS Black Card.

When does the CSCS Black Card expire?

The CSCS Black Card expires in 5 years. You must renew it to continue performing your duties on-site as a manager.

Are Black CSCS Cards being phased out?

No, the Black CSCS Cards will not be phased out.

What qualifications do you need for a CSCS Black Card?

To qualify for a CSCS black card, you must have achieved a relevant NVQ or SVQ level 4 or 5 or a higher-level construction-related qualification. You must also pass the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test.

Conclusion

A CSCS Black Card demonstrates you have the skills and experience necessary for a managerial role. It's a valuable asset that can help boost your career in the construction industry.