Book a CSCS Test

Whether you’re applying for a brand new CSCS card or renewing an existing one, your application is dependent on you passing the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test.

Your CITB test results will remain valid as long as the test is taken no more than two years before your CSCS card expires (or if your application is new, your application date) so don’t take your test too early!

Read on to check how to book your CSCS test and ensure you’re ready to pass first time.

What is the CSCS test?

The CITB test (also known as the CSCS test) was created by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). The CITB operate in partnership with the government for the purpose of improving health and safety in the construction industry. The CSCS card was introduced in 1995 as a way to verify construction workers have the correct level of skill to do a job.

The CITB Health, Safety and Environment test was added in 2001 due to the high frequency of accidents on building sites.

How do I book the CSCS test?

Firstly, make sure you book your CSCS test through the official CSCS website otherwise you’ll end up paying more if you use a third party company.

You can either book your CITB Health, Safety and Environment test online or over the phone. Whichever method you choose, you will need to pay the fee for the test during your booking and be able to provide the following information:

• the type of test you want to take
• the name of the test centre where you wish to sit the test (browse test centres)
• your full address
• your CITB registration number (unless this is your first card or test)

You can pay for the test with a credit or debit card. Alternatively, you can use a voucher if you are taking the test at a Pearson Professional Centre.

Once your test is booked, keep the booking confirmation email or letter somewhere safe because you will need to bring it with you, along with signed photo ID (such as a passport), when you sit your CITB test. Similarly, keep your test results somewhere you can find it easily because you will need to use it when you apply for a new card.

To book by phone

To book your CSCS test over the telephone call: 0344 994 4488. Lines are open every day except Sunday, from 8am to 8pm, with early closing on Saturday at 12 midday.

To book online

To book your CSCS test online, register with the Pearson VUE CITB booking site then book your test on the CITB booking site.

To make a group booking

Call 0344 994 4488 to book tests for up to 3 people or use the Scheduler Group Booking system for 4 or more candidates. You may be interested in having a mobile testing service come to you to save on staff time. About mobile testing

You will need to pay for the tests during booking by card or if using a Pearson Professional Centre for the test, you can pay with vouchers.

You will need to give the full names of all the candidates in the group when you book as well as the name of your desired test centre, your preferred date and time for the test plus any special assistance required.

Please note, anyone under 16 must call 0344 994 4488 to book their test. You will need to provide a completed parental consent form on arrival at the test centre.

Cancellations and rescheduling

If you need to change the date of your test for any reason, it must be done less than 72 hours before your scheduled slot. You can do so at https://wsr.pearsonvue.com/testtaker/signin/SignInPage/CITB or by calling 0344 994 4488. CITB tests are non-refundable if cancelled less than 72 hours before the test is due to start.

Special assistance

If you need special assistance with the test, there are all sorts of help available to ensure you have the right conditions to perform at your best. From BSL to voiceovers, a translator, signer, reader and more, call the CSCS on 0344 994 4491 or email them at: [email protected]. Find the full list of additional support available visit: citb/special assistance.

When should I book the test?

You can use the results of your CITB test for up to two years before your card expires but remember it needs to be relevant to your skillset.

Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing an existing card, it’s a good idea to take your CSCS test before you need it because if you don’t pass, you’ll have time to re-take it. You’ll have to provide evidence of your CITB test results to complete your CSCS card application so it’s useful to have everything ready ahead of time.

However, if you take your test and your level of skill increases, you might need to sit another CITB test at a higher level before you can renew so it’s a question of thinking about how far ahead you should take the test.

What’s involved in the test?

The CSCS test lasts for 45 minutes. During the test you will need to answer 50 questions about recommended health and safety practices for the construction industry as well as related environmental issues.

There are many different types of questions to answer within the test. You may also come across behavioural case studies intended to assess your understanding of what it means to operate safely when considering health, safety and the environment whilst at work.

The styles of questions and content included is often updated so it’s a good idea to complete some practice tests before you take the real thing.

Regardless of updates to how questions are worded, you can expect your CSCS test to cover:

• safety at work in general
• health and welfare
• the environment
• high risk activities
• legal and management

Remember the purpose of the test is to keep you and your colleagues safe whilst on site so there are lots of clues as to what the test will cover.

SOLAS Cards & Recognised Apprenticeships

If you have a SOLAS card or have completed the health and safety requirements for a recognised national apprenticeship in construction, you may not need to take the CITB test. Call: 0344 994 4488 to check.

How much does the CSCS test cost?

Your CSCS test will cost £22 if you’re taking it for the first time. If you’re renewing your card, you can expect to pay £19.50. However if your card has expired but it is less than 6 months since the expiry date, you’ll need to pay £21.

Do I need to take the CSCS test if I’m renewing my card?

Yes, you need to take a new CSCS test every time you renew your card. The reason for this is that your card serves as proof you have the necessary skills and qualifications to do your job. If you’re moving up to a new card type, you may need to take a different grade of test.

Is there only one CSCS test?

No, there are three different levels of CSCS test, appropriate to the type of card you’re applying for. The three types of CSCS test are:

The Operatives Test: This test covers the following 5 core areas: general safety, health and welfare, the environment, high risk activities and legal and management.

The Operatives test is intended to check workers have the minimum level of knowledge necessary to work on-site safely. It is usually required for green, red, blue and gold card applications.

The Specialist Tests: In addition to the 5 core areas, specialist tests exist for a wide range of specific areas of knowledge. At present, specialist CSCS tests are available for:

• supervisory
• demolition
• plumbing
• highways
• specialist work at a height
• lifts and escalators
• tunnelling
• heating and plumbing (HVACR)
• pipefitting and welding (HVACR)
• ductwork (HVACR)
• refrigeration and air conditioning (HVACR)
• services and facilities maintenance (HVACE)

Specialist CSCS tests are normally taken when applying for blue or gold CSCS cards.

The Managers & Professionals Test: The Managers and Professionals test covers the 5 core areas plus construction regulations (design and management), demolition and highway works. This test is ordinarily part of the application for a black CSCS card.