Do You Need a CSCS Card to Work in Construction?

If you’re planning to start work on a construction site in the UK, one of the first questions you’re likely to ask is:

“Do I need a CSCS card to work in construction?”

The short answer is: in most cases, yes. While the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) is not a legal requirement, the majority of employers and contractors across the UK, especially in regulated environments, expect workers to hold a valid CSCS card before stepping on site.

In this guide, we’ll explain who needs a CSCS card, which one you should apply for, and how to get it including the essential training you’ll need if you’re based in Hertfordshire or nearby.

What is a CSCS Card?

The CSCS card is an industry recognised proof that an individual has the necessary health and safety knowledge and qualifications to work safely on a construction site. Managed by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), the CSCS scheme helps raise safety standards and reduce accidents on site by ensuring that workers are properly trained.

While not a legal requirement, most UK construction sites require a valid CSCS card
to gain access.

Who Needs a CSCS Card?

You’ll likely need a CSCS card if you’re working in any of the following roles:

● General labourer or site operative
● Apprentice or new entrant to construction
● Skilled worker (e.g. bricklayer, plumber, carpenter)
● Site supervisor or team leader
● Construction site manager or project leader

Even non-skilled roles, such as cleaners, drivers, and security staff, may be required to hold a CSCS card depending on site policy.

If you’re working on or visiting a UK construction site regularly, you’ll almost certainly need one.

Which CSCS Card Do I Need?

There are several types of CSCS (Construction Skills Certification Scheme) cards, depending on your role, qualifications, and level of experience. Each card shows that you have the required training and competence for your specific job in construction.

As part of our training at Safety for Business we only support and provide the Green Labourer Card. However, we do provide other CITB courses which provides a certificate that shows you passed and your knowledge.

Below is a quick overview of the main types of CSCS cards for awareness:

Green Labourer Card (Provided by Safety For Business)

Who it’s for: Labourers, general operatives, and those new to construction.

How to get it:
– Complete the CITB Health & Safety Awareness course (available through Safety for Business).
– Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) test.

This card demonstrates that you have the basic health and safety knowledge needed to work safely on site.

Other CSCS Cards (For Information Only)

Blue Skilled Worker Card

For qualified tradespeople with a Level 2 NVQ (or equivalent).

Gold Supervisor Card

For site supervisors or team leaders with an NVQ Level 3 or 4, often alongside the SSSTS course. At Safety for Business, we do the training for the SSSTS and SSSTS Refresher courses.

Black Manager Card

For site managers or project leads with a Level 5+ NVQ in site management, often alongside the SMSTS course. At Safety for Business, we do the training for the SMSTS and SMSTS Refresher courses.

Red Trainee Card

For apprentices or trainees working toward a recognised construction qualification.

If you’re looking to apply for or renew your Green Labourer Card, or would like advice on the process, please contact the Safety for Business team for support.

How to Get a CSCS Green Labourer Card

To apply for the Green Labourer Card, you must:

Complete the CITB Health & Safety Awareness Course

This one day course introduces the basics of working safely on site. It’s designed for anyone new to construction or with limited formal training. Book your CITB Health and Safety Awareness training in Hertfordshire with Safety for Business, an accredited CITB Approved Training Organisation.

View course details

Pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test

This is a 45 minute multiple-choice test taken at an approved test centre. It covers key health and safety topics relevant to your role. You can book this test directly through the CSCS website or through CITB.

Apply for Your CSCS Card

Once you’ve passed both the training and test, you can apply for your card online via the official cscs.uk.com website. You’ll need to provide evidence of your qualifications and pay a small fee.

Do Employers Need to Provide CSCS Training?

While individual workers can book their own training, employers have a duty to ensure their teams are properly trained and qualified, particularly when it comes to safety-critical roles.

At Safety for Business, we work closely with local construction companies to:

● Provide group training sessions for new hires
● Assist with CSCS card pathways for operatives, supervisors, and managers
● Offer guidance on refresher requirements

Whether you’re onboarding new staff or upskilling existing workers, our team can help you stay compliant, confident, and fully prepared.

Why Book Your CSCS Training with Safety For Business?

● CITB Approved Training Organisation
● In-person courses in Letchworth Garden City
● Experienced, friendly trainers who know the industry
● Support booking on the course
● Trusted by construction employers across Hertfordshire

We’ve helped hundreds of individuals and companies complete their CITB Health & Safety Awareness training, the first step toward a safer and more successful construction career.

Explore CITB training courses

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a CSCS card legally required to work in construction?

No, but most employers and contractors require it. Without one, you may not be allowed on site.

Can I get a CSCS card without taking a course?

No. For most cards, especially the Green Labourer Card, you’ll need to complete the CITB Health & Safety Awareness course and pass the CITB test.

How long does a CSCS card last?

Most CSCS cards are valid for five years. After that, you’ll need to renew it by demonstrating up to date qualifications and retaking the test.