coteca.co.uk > Blog > Which CSCS Card Does Your Trade Need?
Turning up to a new site without the right card can mean being sent home before you pick up a tool. Yet working out which CSCS card your trade needs is confusing, with different colours, levels and rules.
This plain-English guide breaks it down by trade, so you know exactly what to apply for.
CSCS cards show that you have the training and qualifications for the job you do on site. The colour tells the site manager your level.
Every card also needs a pass in the CITB health, safety and environment test, taken within the last two years. Most trades sit the CITB Operatives test.
Cards are linked to your occupation, so the card you hold should match the work you actually do. A site manager can scan or check it online in seconds, which is why the wrong card is spotted so quickly.
Most skilled trades need the blue skilled worker card. You get it by completing a Level 2 NVQ in your trade.
| Trade | Qualification for the blue card |
|---|---|
| Bricklayer | Level 2 NVQ in bricklaying |
| Plasterer | Level 2 NVQ in plastering |
| Painter and decorator | Level 2 NVQ in painting and decorating |
| Wall and floor tiler | Level 2 NVQ in wall and floor tiling |
| Carpenter | Level 2 NVQ in site carpentry |
| Dry liner | Level 2 NVQ in dry lining |
| Roofer | Level 2 NVQ in roofing occupations (see Level 2 NVQs) |
Once you hold a Level 3 NVQ in your trade, you can apply for the gold advanced craft card. Supervisors can also apply for a gold card with the right supervisory qualification.
Site and construction managers need the black manager card, usually backed by a Level 6 or 7 qualification.
Not every trade uses a CSCS-branded card. Some have their own schemes that carry the CSCS logo:
A green card is for labouring only. If you are laying bricks, most sites will expect a red experienced worker card while you train, then a blue card once you qualify.
The blue skilled worker card is valid for five years. You will need a current CITB test pass to renew it.
You may be able to use them, but you will usually need a statement of comparability from UK ENIC first.
No. Your card shows your occupation, and you would only apply again if you qualify in a different trade.
Each of these can add weeks to your application, so double-check before you submit.
The answer to which CSCS card you need comes down to your trade and your qualification level. Labourers start on green, trainees and experienced workers on red, and qualified tradespeople on blue, with gold and black for advanced roles.
Still unsure? The Coteca team can check your trade and tell you exactly what to apply for.
We will give you best suited CSCS product. Apply Here
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