You’ve spent years refining your craft, reviving worn-out walls, refreshing outdated interiors, and delivering professional results that speak for themselves. But when your next project lands you on a construction site, things work a little differently.
Many skilled decorators are surprised to learn that, even with years of hands-on experience, access to a construction site usually requires a valid Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card. Site managers and contractors want proof that you’re not only talented with a brush but also trained in health and safety, which is why the CSCS card has become a standard requirement across UK construction sites.
The good news? You don’t need to return to college or sit through long lectures. If you’re already working in the trade, you can earn your Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card by completing an NVQ in Painting and Decorating assessed entirely on-site, while you continue doing your job.
What Is a CSCS Card and Why Do Decorators Need One?
A CSCS card (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) is a widely recognised ID card that proves you have the training and skills to work safely on construction sites. Most construction employers won’t let you work on-site without one.
There are different types of CSCS cards, depending on your experience. For experienced painters and decorators, the most suitable option is the Blue Skilled Worker Card.
Get Your CSCS Card While You Work
Already working as a decorator? The NVQ Level 2 in Painting and Decorating is designed just for you. There’s no classroom time; your skills are assessed on-site while you work.
✓ Prove your trade experience through a practical assessment
✓ Fully qualify for the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card
✓ No disruption to your day job
Can You Work on a Construction Site as a Painter and Decorator?
Yes, obtaining a valid CSCS card is essential for gaining access to construction sites. Despite your extensive experience in the trade, many contractors have strict policies and will not permit entry without this certification. The card serves as proof of your qualifications and safety training, ensuring that all workers on-site meet industry standards.
A CSCS card confirms you’ve completed basic safety training and that you meet industry standards. It’s essential for career progression and accessing more work opportunities.
Which CSCS Card Should You Apply For?
If you’re a painter or decorator with existing experience, the Green Labourer Card is not the right choice. It’s meant for general labour roles and could actually limit your opportunities or worse, get you refused entry to site if used in a skilled role.
Instead, focus on the Blue Skilled Worker Card or the Gold Skilled Worker Card, depending on your experience and goals.
Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card – For Experienced Painters and Decorators
If you already have experience in painting and decorating, the Blue Skilled Worker Card is a better fit for you. This card shows you’re qualified in your trade.
To get it, you need to:
- Complete an NVQ Level 2 in Painting and Decorating
- Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test
Unlike classroom-based courses, the NVQ is assessed on-site. You’ll be observed and guided while doing your actual job. That means you don’t need to take time off work. Read more about What Is an NVQ in Painting and Decorating?
Why the Blue Skilled Worker Card Is a Better Option
If you’re already an experienced painter or decorator, the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card is a much better option than the Green Labourer Card. It confirms that you’re fully qualified in your trade, which helps you stand out to employers. With a Blue Card, you’re not limited to basic labouring jobs; you’ll have access to a broader range of opportunities that recognise your skills and experience.
It’s recognised across the UK, and many employers will offer higher pay for qualified tradespeople with the Blue Card.
How to Get Your Blue CSCS Card
Getting your Blue CSCS Skilled Worker Card is a straightforward process:
- Enrol in the NVQ Level 2 in Painting and Decorating
Sign up here - Get assessed while you work
You’ll be observed on-site by a qualified assessor as you carry out your usual tasks. This means no need to take time off or attend a classroom. - Pass the CITB Health and Safety Test
This is a brief, multiple-choice exam that focuses on essential safety practices and regulations for working on a construction site - Apply for your Blue CSCS Card
Once you’ve completed the NVQ and passed the CITB test, you can apply for your Blue Skilled Worker Card through the CSCS website.
How Long Does the Process Take?
The time it takes to get your CSCS card is quite manageable. First, completing the NVQ Level 2 in Painting and Decorating typically takes between 6 and 12 weeks. Since this qualification is assessed on-site while you’re working, it doesn’t interrupt your day-to-day job.
Once you’re ready, you’ll need to take the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test. This is a short, 45-minute multiple-choice exam that can be booked easily online or by phone.
After successfully passing both the NVQ and the CITB test, you can apply for your CSCS card. The card itself usually arrives within 10 working days of submitting your application.
What Are the Costs?
The cost of getting your CSCS card is relatively affordable, especially considering the long-term career benefits. The NVQ Level 2 in Painting and Decorating with Hurak is priced at £699.99. This qualification is assessed on-site, allowing you to earn while you learn.
In addition to the NVQ, you’ll need to take the CITB Health and Safety Test, which costs just £22.50. Once you’ve completed both the NVQ and the CITB test, you can apply for your CSCS card, which has an application fee of £36.
Altogether, the total investment to become a fully qualified, site-ready painter or decorator with a Blue CSCS card is just under £760.Â
Thinking of specialising beyond painting?
Hurak has been delivering professional training for over a decade, helping more than 50,000 learners across the UK upskill and qualify for better roles. From painting and decorating to bricklaying, roofing, groundworks, and more, our NVQ courses are designed to work around your job.
Browse all NVQ courses by Hurak
Want to Progress Further in Your Career?
If you’re already experienced in the trade and looking to move into specialist or supervisory roles, consider the NVQ Level 3 in Painting and Decorating. This advanced qualification helps you stand out to employers, improve your earning potential, and step into leadership roles on-site.
CSCS Card Options for Painters
Not all CSCS cards are the same, and the right one depends on your experience and qualifications. Whether you’re just getting site access, proving your skills as a decorator, or moving into a supervisory role, here’s a breakdown of your options:
| Card type | Best for | What you need |
| Green Labourer Card | New workers or general labour | 1-day safety course + CITB test |
| Blue Skilled Worker Card | Experienced decorators | NVQ Level 2 + CITB test |
| Gold Skilled Worker Card | Highly skilled decorators/supervisors | NVQ Level 3 + CITB test |
Note: Do not apply for the Green Labourer card if you work in a skilled occupation.Â
It is intended for unskilled roles only and signals to employers that the holder is not on a recognised training pathway. Using this card in a skilled trade can lead to being refused entry to site.
Conclusion
If you’ve built up years of experience, you’re already halfway there. The Blue Skilled Worker CSCS Card is the most suitable option for tradespeople like you, and the best way to get it is by completing the NVQ Level 2 in Painting and Decorating.
This qualification is designed to work around your job, not take you away from it. There’s no classroom time, no time off work, just a practical, on-site assessment that proves what you already know. Once you have the NVQ and the CITB test under your belt, your CSCS card is within easy reach.
If you’re looking to unlock better opportunities, increase your earning potential, and work confidently on construction sites, the next step is straightforward.
Choosing the NVQ is not just the easiest route; it’s the smartest one.
Even if you’ve been in the trade for decades, having a recognised qualification can help you stand out, increase your pay, and give you more job opportunities. Hurak makes it easy to get your NVQ while continuing to work.
Get started with your NVQ Level 2 in Painting and Decorating
FAQs
Do I need a CSCS card to work as a decorator?
Yes. While not a legal requirement, a CSCS card is essential for working on most UK construction sites. It acts as proof that you’ve completed the necessary health and safety training and meet industry standards. Without one, many site managers and contractors won’t allow you on-site, regardless of your experience.
Is the NVQ done online or in a classroom?
No classroom is needed. The NVQ Level 2 in Painting and Decorating is assessed on-site while you continue working. An assessor will observe your practical skills and evaluate your competence based on real-world tasks.
Can I do the NVQ while working full-time?
Yes, absolutely. The NVQ is designed to fit around your existing job. Because it’s assessed while you’re working, there’s no need to take time off or attend classes. It’s a flexible, work-based qualification that proves what you already know.
What is the CITB test like?
The CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test is a multiple-choice exam that takes 45 minutes to complete. It covers topics like site safety, health risks, and legal responsibilities. You can prepare using official revision materials or practice tests beforehand.
How long is the Blue CSCS card valid?
The Blue Skilled Worker CSCS Card is valid for 5 years. After that, you’ll need to renew it by demonstrating that your qualifications and safety training are still up to date. The card lasts for 5 years.
