How to Get a CSCS Card after Passing Test

Most construction sites in the UK require a CSCS card. And, yet most people don't know how to apply for one. In fact, 40% of CSCS cardholders carry the wrong card.

In this blog, I'm going to break down how to get a CSCS card after passing the test. As we move forward, I'll guide you through the entire application process, step by step, and show you what it looks like

What are the Steps to Obtaining the CSCS Card?

The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) offers 13 types of cards, which can make it a bit tricky to apply for the right one.

Here's a simple four-step process that'll help you get your CSCS card.

Step 1: Select a Card Relevant to Your Role

Use the CSCS Card Finder to discover the card best suited for your role.

The CSCS Card Finder also goes the extra mile by providing guidance on the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test you should undertake to obtain that specific card.

By entering your job or qualification, the tool will assess the data and gives you the most suitable card for your role. For example, if you have completed a Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment course, the tool will suggest a CSCS Green Card which is required by labourers. Additionally, if you have any other qualifications, it will present you with details on any other CSCS cards you may be eligible for.

This tool takes out the guesswork, it's super useful and makes picking a card easy, saving you time and hassle.

Step 2: Complete the Qualification

Once you know exactly what you need to get your desired CSCS card, the next step is to book the right training or qualification.

For instance, for a CSCS Green Card, you'll need to successfully complete a one-day Level 1 Health and Safety in a Construction Environment course, which is often available through online construction courses. On the other hand, obtaining a CSCS Blue Card involves undertaking a Level 2 NVQ, a process that may take several weeks.

Thus, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of the specific qualification required for your intended card.

Step 3: Pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test

There are three types of the CITB test:

• Operatives

• Specialists

• Managers & Professionals.

The CITB test focuses on assessing your knowledge of health and safety practices essential for construction work. However, the specific content you need to study varies based on your desired job role. For instance, a manager is required to acquire a more comprehensive understanding beyond what an operative learns.

You must prepare well before you take the real CITB HS&E test. Hurak offers a free CSCS mock test with unlimited attempts so you can prepare for the test until you achieve the desired score.

Step 4: Apply for the Card

So, if you've been keeping up with the steps in the right order, it's time to get all the documents you need for the application. Here's what you must have before you move on:

1. A scanned copy of your qualification certificate

2. Your CITB Test ID number. You'll find it at the top of your passing certificate.

3. Lastly, make sure you've got a debit or credit card ready to pay the £36 application fee.

You've got two ways to apply for a CSCS card:

1. Online Application

Create an Account:

Step one is to make an account on the CSCS online portal. You'll be asked to pick who you're making the account for. Like, if you're signing up for yourself, just click on "Individual." But if you're making an account for a worker, click on "Employer".

After you've chosen the right account type, it's time to provide your info. Fill in what they're asking for, then click on "Register." Remember to provide a correct email address, as you'll receive an email verification from CSCS. Once you have verified your email, you're all set!

Select a Card:

Hit the "Apply for a card" button in the top-right corner. Then, pick the card you want. If you're not sure which one to go for right now, don't rush it, use the Card Finder to figure out the right one for you.

Only start the application when you're totally sure about your pick.

Add details about your qualifications and upload your qualification certificate. To check your test info, provide details of your CITB test, including the test ID and postcode.

Add the Necessary Details:

Because you already gave your info earlier, some parts of this page may be filled in for you. This is where you tell CSCS where to send your card.

Review Your Application:

Before you move on, take a second to look over everything you filled in. Make sure your personal details, qualifications, and anything else you put down are accurate and up-to-date. This will help prevent delays on your application.

An extra look into your profile would save you extra delays!

Make a Payment:

Now, let's move on to paying for your card. Put in your credit/debit card info and complete the payment steps. Remember, getting a CSCS card costs £36.

Important: When applying online, following the steps above in the correct order will result in you receiving your CSCS card within approximately 3-5 days. However, not following these steps properly may result in delays, as CSCS might request additional information from you.

2. Over the Phone

Even if you're not particularly tech-savvy, obtaining a CSCS card is still possible. Once you've successfully passed the CITB test, you have the option to apply over the phone by calling CSCS on 0344 994 4777 (8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday).

Please ensure you have access to an email address as the CSCS representative will ask you to confirm your details.

When applying over the phone, it may take up to 10 days to receive your CSCS card.

How Much Do You Need to Pay?

The CSCS card costs £36, and the CITB test costs £23.50. When you add these amounts, the total comes to £58.50.

Please note that this amount does not cover any fees associated with necessary training or qualifications for your specific CSCS card.

If you're looking to get a CSCS Green Card, your search ends here! With Hurak offers a Premium plan, where we handle everything for you. We'll schedule your one-day health and safety course through one of our trusted training providers, book your CITB test at a Pearson testing center, and handle your ID card application. This all-inclusive package saves you time, eliminates the hassle, and prevents any delays that may result from choosing the wrong course or test or making errors in your CSCS card application.

For a full cost breakdown for any CSCS card, this blog post would help.

How Long Does the CSCS Card Last?

The validity of most CSCS cards is five years. Planning ahead for your card's expiration is crucial, and to do so effectively, it's important to be aware of the required documents for submission to CSCS. If your card's expiration date is approaching, we recommend reading through our renewal guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which card is best for me?

The right CSCS card depends on your job and experience. CSCS has cards for different roles and levels, like the Green Labourer Card, Blue Skilled Worker Card, Gold Supervisor Card, and Black Manager Card.

How will this card help me grow professionally?

Having a CSCS card can really boost your career in construction. It proves you're skilled, safe, and know what you're doing. It shows you've passed the necessary tests and can work well. Many employers need it, so having one makes it more likely to get hired.

How to get a CSCS card?

1. Find the right card

2. Enrol on relevant qualification

3. Pass the CSCS test

4. Apply for the card (as shown above)

Conclusion

If you've followed this If you have been following this guide up to this point, you already know how to get a CSCS card after passing the test.

Again, this card definitely helps to attract better job opportunities, and you double the prospects coming your way. On top of all this, it also gives you an understanding of safe practices on a construction site.

If you want us to handle the CSCS Green Card application for you, check out the premium plan of the course.