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To gain access to a construction site in the UK you’ll need to have an up to date red CSCS card. CSCS cards are a nationwide measure designed to keep everyone working on building sites safe. There are different colour cards for each type of person who may need to visit or work on site.
If you’re studying, in training, an apprentice or on a work placement, you’ll need to apply for a red CSCS card.
What is a red CSCS card?
Red CSCS cards are temporary cards. For apprentices, workers and managers, the red card you receive will expire when your training/ studying finishes. As it expires, you will be able to apply for a new card in the colour which matches your new qualifications.
CSCS cards were introduced in the 90s under the Construction Skills Certification Scheme. Their purpose is to formally verify anyone working on site has the necessary skills and knowledge to function safely, both in terms of themselves and others. It’s a decisive measure to address the disproportionately high rates of accidents on building sites.
That means whether you’re working on-site as a tradesman, construction worker, apprentice or on placement, you will need to apply for a red CSCS card before you can get on site. There are five different types of red CSCS cards, each one is awarded for a specific reason. Here’s all you need to know about red CSCS cards and how to get one.
Let’s start by taking a look at the 5 types of red CSCS cards.
Types of red CSCS cards
All CSCS cards are issued by the Construction Skills Certification Scheme via their website (where you can complete a digital card application) or over the phone.
Before you can apply for a red CSCS card, you will need to complete a CSCS test. CSCS tests (formally known as CITB tests) are delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB). You will need to book your test on the CITB website (the CSCS website will also redirect you there). Take a CSCS mock test to help you prepare.
The CITB test lasts for 45 minutes and consists of 50 questions around health and safety in the context of your work environment.
Red Provisional CSCS Cards
The Provisional CSCS card is designed for staff on probation. You will need to complete a CITB test as part of the application process and will not be able to apply for another one. Provisional CSCS cards cannot be renewed and last for 6 months. By the time your card has expired, you should have achieved or registered for the qualifications needed for the correct card for your role.
Red Experienced Worker CSCS Card
The Experienced Worker red CSCS card is awarded to those who are signed up to an NVQ or SVQ training course at a level 2 or above, in a construction-related subject. You must have recent hands-on experience in role, totalling at least one year out of the last three.
You will need to pass a CITB test to apply for an Experienced Worker card and be able to provide proof of registration on your course. The course must be the course required for the CSCS card you intend to apply for on qualification. Your red Experienced Worker card will last for one year and expire on completion of your course. Once your studies are complete you will be able to apply for a blue CSCS card.
Red Experienced Technical Supervisor or Manager CSCS Card
Similarly, Experienced Technical Supervisor or Manager red CSCS cards can be used by supervisors, managers and technical staff who are registered to complete a construction-related technical, supervisory or management NVQ or SVQ course at a level 3 or above.
Again, you must already have experience in role spanning at least one year out of the last three. You will also need to pass a CITB test and show proof of course registration to complete your application.
Experienced Technical Supervisor or Manager red cards last for 3 years and cannot be renewed. If you do need to continue using one, you will need to make a new application.
Red Trainee CSCS Card
Trainee CSCS cards are for those who are on an academic, vocational or professional training course that meets the requirements of the next CSCS card you will apply for. Cards last for 5 years but can’t be renewed. If you still wish to use your card after this time you will have to apply for a new one. You will also need to sit a CITB test.
Red Apprentice CSCS Card
If you are training on a CSCS-recognised apprenticeship scheme you can qualify for an Apprentice CSCS card. Apprentice red CSCS cards last for 4 years and 6 months by which time your training should be complete. On expiry, you will be fully trained and able to apply for the CSCS card which matches your new level of training.
Apprentice cards cannot be renewed. If you still need a red Apprentice CSCS card after 4 ½ years you can apply for a new one. You will need to pass a CITB test and complete an Enrolment Evidence Form as proof of registration on your apprenticeship scheme.
Red Industry Placement CSCS Card
The red Industry Placement card was created for those who are on-site as part of a work placement whilst studying or training. You can keep the card for three years but you won’t be able to renew it. If you want another Industry Placement card you will have to apply for it again.
To qualify for an Industry Placement card you must be over 16 and on a course that requires at least 30 days on a work placement. You will need to pass a CITB test before you can apply for your card.
How to apply for a red CSCS card
You should begin your application for a red CSCS card by checking which type of red card you will be eligible for using the card finder tool on the CSCS website. Once you have confirmed the type of red card you need, head over to the CITB website to book your test.
You can take your test up to two years before you apply for any CSCS card. If you don’t pass you can sit the examination again.
Once you have passed the CITB test, return to the CSCS website to apply for your CSCS card. Your new card should be with you within 3-10 working days. To complete your application over the phone call 0344 994 4488.
It will cost you £30 to get a CSCS card and £19.50 to take the test.
How long does a red CSCS card last?
Red CSCS cards are designed to be used as an interim measure so they each last for different periods of time, according to the length of your training course. Unlike other grades of CSCS cards, red CSCS cards cannot be renewed. If you do need to continue using your red card you can apply for a new one.
Manager and supervisor red cards last for 3 years. Red cards for work placements also remain valid for 3 years. Trainee red cards remain valid for 5 years. If you are on an apprenticeship scheme your Apprenticeship CSCS card will last for 4 ½ years.