CPCS 360 Excavator Mock Test

What is the CPCS (A59) Excavator Training Programme? 

The Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) 360 Excavator Course is for individuals who operate diggers and excavators on construction sites. There are two categories based on weight:

1. CPCS A58 Excavator 360° Course – Below 10 tonnes.
2. CPCS A59 Excavator 360° Course – Above 10 tonnes.

Generally, excavators in the below 10 tonnes category are good for digging foundations up to 15 ft deep. Larger excavators are better suited for heavy-duty tasks like demolition and digging foundations for big structures such as shopping malls and apartments. These courses are also split into Tracked or Wheeled machine categories. If you complete the Excavator Course A59, you can operate both types of machines.

Choose the right training programme based on your job requirements.

This mock test is for the above 10 tonnes category, specifically the CPCS (A59) 360° Excavator Course. This theory test will familiarise you with the types of questions you'll experience in the actual CPCS theory test, which lasts one hour. Afterwards, there's a 70-minute practical test. You need both certificates to qualify for the CPCS Trained Operator Card.

What Topics Does this CPCS 360° Excavator Mock Test Cover? 

This mock exam follows the same format as the actual test and includes these topics:

1. Legal requirements
2. Operator responsibilities
3. Basic machine operation knowledge
4. Safety procedures for excavator operation
5. Considerations for various types of terrain during excavation
6. Equipment installation.

What is a CPCS Red Card? 

The CPCS Red or Trained Operator Card confirms that you meet CPCS standards and are qualified for on-site work. It's a temporary card that gives you time until you complete your qualification and upgrade to the skilled Blue CPCS Card, which signifies your competence and earns you national recognition. While the Red Card cannot be renewed, you can extend it for an additional 12 months if you've enrolled on an NVQ/SVQ. For more details, you can contact CPCS at 0300 999 1177, available from 9 AM to 4 PM (Monday - Thursday) and 9 AM to 3:30 PM (Friday).

How to Get a CPCS Red Trained Operator Card? 

The CPCS Red Card confirms that you have the necessary skills and understanding to operate machinery in the workplace. After completing a relevant NVQ/SVQ, you can upgrade to the Blue Skilled CPCS Card. The Red CPCS Card is temporary and expires after two years.

To obtain a CPCS Red Card, you need to:

1. Complete machinery training (for excavators/diggers).
2. Pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) Test for Operatives and Specialists, which assesses your knowledge of health and safety principles. This is also known as the CSCS test. Or, you can download this free handbook with 400 Questions and Answers to prepare for the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test for Operatives and Specialists. 

3. Pass the CPCS Theory Test within two years of passing the CITB HS&E test.
4. Pass the CPCS Practical Test within six months of passing the CPCS Theory Test.

Having these certificates qualifies you for the CPCS Red Card, which cannot be renewed. To learn about courses that lead to the CPCS Blue Card, please contact us at 0333 344 1293, 9 AM - 6 PM, Monday to Friday, excluding bank holidays. 

How Much Does the Excavator Training Cost? 

The training costs depend on your expertise level, which also affects the type of course you want to book. Another important cost factor is the choice of machinery – tracked or wheeled. On average, the course price ranges from £800 to £900.

To help cover these costs, you can inquire with CITB to see if you're eligible for funding.

How long is the CPCS Excavator Training? 

The course duration depends on your experience in the field. If you have years of experience operating excavators or diggers, you can book the 3-Day course to earn a CPCS Red Card. However, if you're new to this or have little to no experience, we recommend the 9-day course. Your level of expertise will determine how long it takes. You can find more information about CITB courses below:

- CPCS Excavator 360° Tracked: Above 10 Tonnes A59 - experienced operators (3 days)
- CPCS Excavator 360° Tracked: Above 10 Tonnes A59 (9 days)                    

How is the 360 Excavator Theory Test Assessed? 

When it comes to assessment, the 360 Excavator Theory Test differs from traditional training courses. It involves a verbal question-and-answer session with an examiner, where they present you with choices, and you need to select the correct answers. To pass the exam, you must answer 80% of the questions correctly. While this might sound challenging, with strategic planning and thorough preparation, you can pass the test quite comfortably.