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  • How Long Does a CSCS Card Last? A Detailed Guide to Understand the Validity of Your CSCS Card
Construction

How Long Does a CSCS Card Last? A Detailed Guide to Understand the Validity of Your CSCS Card

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Nauman Farooq

Sept 22, 2023

Read time : 03 mins

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Table of contents

Introduction
How Long Does a CSCS Card Last?
Why Do CSCS Cards Expire?
How to Check the Expiry Date of a CSCS Card?
What Should I Do Once My CSCS Card Expires?
How Much Does A New CSCS Card Cost?
How Do I Get a New CSCS Card?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion

Wondering how long your CSCS card is valid for? It’s important to stay on top of this to avoid any legal or safety consequences in the construction environment. An expired CSCS card can be problematic for your career, so you must understand how long it lasts and what to do when it expires.

How Long Does a CSCS Card Last?

There are different types of CSCS cards, each with its own validity period, reflecting various occupations and qualification levels in the construction industry. The validity period of a CSCS card depends on its type. It’s noteworthy that some CSCS can be renewed after expiration, while others cannot. For example, the CSCS Green Labourer Card is valid for five years, whereas the Red CSCS Experienced Technical or Supervisor Card is valid for three years. However, most CSCS cards have a validity period of five years.
Let’s have a look at different CSCS card types and their validity.

cscs card types

Why Do CSCS Cards Expire?

Your CSCS card doesn’t last forever, as all CSCS cards have an expiration date; most of them expire after 5 years, while others remain valid for less than 5 years. So why do CSCS cards expire? CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) has set this condition of expiry to ensure that the cardholder has obtained updated training and qualifications and has passed the latest CITB tests.
As the UK’s construction industry evolves exponentially, new standards and techniques are introduced. Therefore, construction workers need to stay informed. The end goal of this practice is to enhance safety standards and improve the overall performance of the construction sector.

How to Check the Expiry Date of a CSCS Card?

It’s important to check the expiry date of your CSCS card before it expires to prevent any unwanted outcomes. To check if your CSCS card is still valid, there are multiple methods you can use.

  • CSCS Smart Check
  • Go Smart App
  • CSCS Online account
  • Online card checks
  • CSCS Contact Centre

I’ve explained these methods in detail in my blog CSCS Card Checker. You can use any of these methods to know when your CSCS card is expiring.

Also, keep in mind that you can easily find your CSCS card’s expiration date on the front of the card.

What Should I Do Once My CSCS Card Expires?

Once your CSCS card expires, you should renew it as early as possible to maintain your employment in the construction sector. To renew your CSCS card, you have to follow these steps:

  • Retake the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test
  • Provide evidence of your current qualifications

To take the CITB test, you need to register yourself first – online or via phone. At Hurak Learning, we offer to secure your CITB test reservation on your behalf. Book Now! Before you take a test, it’s advisable to take the CSCS mock test for practice.

Once you have passed this test and provided proof of your cuurent qualifications, you can apply for renewal of your card. This can be done through the CSCS website or by mail.

Do I Need to Take My CITB HS&E Exam Again?

In most cases, you will need to retake the CITB test to get a new CSCS card. This is because most CSCS cards are valif for approximately 5 years, however, the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test is valid for only two years. So, if your existing CITB test has expired, you will need to retake the test before applying for a new CSCS card. However, if your CITB test is still valid and meets the CSCS requirements, you will not need to attempt a retake.

How Much Does a New CSCS Card Cost?

The cost of a new CSCS card varies, depending on the card type. Read our blog on How Much Does a CSCS Card Cost? to learn about the CSCS card cost in detail.

As of now, the standard price for a new CSCS card ranges from £36 to £70. In addition, the CITB Health safety and environment test – for all CSCS cards – costs £22.50. There may be extra charges for certain variants of cards or expedited processing. To get the latest updates on fee structure and payment options, you must check the official CSCS website.

How Do I Get a New CSCS Card After It Expires?

To obtain a new CSCS card after it expires, there are some steps to follow. Firstly, you must complete the necessary qualifications for the specific CSCS card you need. Next, complete the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test. Once you pass the test, gather any required documentation and apply for the new CSCS card. Upon successful verification, your new CSCS card will be issued to you. To understand this process in more detail, read this blog.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I renew my CSCS card before it expires?
You can renew your CSCS card in advance to avoid work disruptions. As per CSCS guidelines, cardholders can apply for a new CSCS card 6 months before the expiry of their current card. The additional months will be added to your new CSCS card.

What happens if my CSCS card expires?
If your card expires, you will need to apply for its renewal. To renew your CSCS card, you need to retake the relevant CITB test and provide evidence of your current, up-to-date qualifications and training. After that, you can apply for your new CSCS card.

Can I continue to work on a construction site with an expired CSCS card?
No, you cannot work on a construction site with an outdated CSCS card, as it can have legal implications.

Conclusion

The duration of the card will depend on the type of card obtained and the qualifications achieved. While some cards may expire after five years, others may be renewed annually. It’s crucial to keep track of the expiration date of your card and renew it in time to avoid any interruption in your work. Regularly updating your qualifications and skills is also essential to ensure your CSCS card remains valid and relevant to your role. By doing so, you can continue to demonstrate your competence and commitment to health and safety in the workplace.

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