How to Renew Your CITB Certificate Before it Expires

If you’ve completed a CITB course such as SMSTS or SSSTS, you already know how important certification is for working legally and safely in the construction industry. But what many people don’t realise is that CITB certificates have a five-year expiry date, and if you miss the renewal window, you’ll need to retake the full course.

Whether you’re a site supervisor or a site manager, this guide will help you understand:

• When and how to renew your CITB certificate
• The difference between refresher and full courses
• What happens if your certificate has expired
• How to avoid delays and stay compliant

Why you Need to Renew Your CITB Certificate

CITB courses are designed to keep you up to date with the latest health and safety legislation, best practices, and legal responsibilities on site.

However, the construction industry is always evolving and so are its regulations. That’s why CITB certificates are only valid for five years, and refresher training is required to maintain your qualification.

Failing to renew your certificate on time could mean:

• You’re no longer compliant with site or legal requirements
• You may be refused access to construction sites
• You’ll have to retake the full-length course, which takes more time and costs more money

When Should You Take A CITB Refresher Course?

You should aim to complete your refresher before your current certificate expires. CITB allows you to renew your certificate by taking a refresher course any time within the five year period, but you must complete it before the expiry date.

If your certificate has already expired, you won’t be eligible for a refresher, and you’ll have to take the full course again.

At Safety For Business, we recommend booking your refresher course at least 2-3 months before your expiry date to secure your place and avoid any disruption to your work.

CITB Refresher Courses Explained

Below is an overview of the CITB refresher training courses we provide, what they cover, and who they’re intended for.

1. CITB SMSTS Refresher

• Duration: 2 days
• For: Site managers, project managers, business owners
• Eligibility: You must hold a valid SMSTS certificate
• Outcome: Extends your qualification for another 5 years

This refresher reinforces your knowledge of the Construction Design and Management (CDM) Regulations, legal responsibilities, risk management, and environmental best practices.

Download the CITB Site Management Safety Training Scheme Refresher Course PDF

2. CITB SSSTS Refresher

• Duration: 1 day
• For: Site supervisors, team leaders, first line managers
• Eligibility: You must hold a valid SSSTS certificate
• Outcome: Renews your qualification for 5 more years

This course refreshes your understanding of site supervision responsibilities, health and safety law, risk assessments, and toolbox talks.

Download the CITB Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme Refresher Course PDF

What if my Certificate has Expired?

If your SMSTS or SSSTS certificate has expired, you are no longer eligible to attend a refresher course. In this case, you’ll need to:

1. Book the full course again
2. Complete all required training (5 days for SMSTS, 2 days for SSSTS)
3. Retake the assessment to receive a new certificate

That’s why it is so important to plan ahead and renew early.

Benefits of Taking a Refresher Course

• Saves time: SMSTS Refresher is just 2 days; SSSTS Refresher is 1 day
• Saves money: Refresher courses are significantly cheaper than full length courses
• Avoids downtime: Stay qualified and compliant without interrupting your work schedule
• Updated knowledge: Learn about changes to legislation, industry practices, and site procedures

By renewing early, you not only protect your current role, but you also demonstrate professionalism and a proactive attitude to safety.

How to Book Your Refresher Course

At Safety for Business, we make it easy to stay compliant. You can:

1. Book face-to-face CITB Refresher courses online
2. You can also book with a PDF booking form and an invoice, if that is what you prefer
3. Access expert instruction from CITB accredited trainers

We deliver CITB training to tradespeople and construction professionals who need a certificate and are willing to travel to Letchworth Garden City.

Once your certificate expires, there’s no going back, and that means, lost time, higher costs, and more hassle. If you’re within 6 months of expiry, the best time to book your refresher is now.

Need help checking your expiry date or choosing the right course? Call our training team today or view our upcoming CITB refresher courses online.

View all our CITB course options here | Call us today | Or email to request a course schedule or quote

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is a CITB certificate valid for?
A CITB certificate is typically valid for five years. After that, you must complete a refresher course before your certificate expires in order to keep it active.

Can I renew my SMSTS or SSSTS certificate after it expires?
No, once your SMSTS or SSSTS certificate has expired, you’re no longer eligible for a refresher course. You’ll need to retake the full course to regain your qualification.

When should I book a CITB refresher course?
You should aim to book your refresher course at least 2-3 months before your certificate expires. This gives you time to secure a place and avoid the risk of having to retake the full course.

What’s the difference between a refresher course and a full CITB course?
A refresher course is shorter, less expensive, and designed to update your existing knowledge. A full course is required if you haven’t taken the training before or if your certificate has expired.

How long are the refresher courses?

• SMSTS Refresher: 2 days
• SSSTS Refresher: 1 day

These courses are significantly shorter than the full versions (SMSTS is 5 days; SSSTS is 2 days)

What if I’m not sure when my certificate expires?
If you’re unsure when your certificate expires, your certificate will show the expiry date on the front. Otherwise contact our team and we can help you check your expiry date and advice on your eligibility for a refresher course.

Will I receive a new certificate after the refresher course?
Yes, once your successfully complete the refresher, you’ll receive a new CITB certificate that is valid for another five years.