The short version
- A CSCS card costs £36. CSCS says this rises to £42 from 1 February 2027.
- Most cards need a CITB health, safety and environment test passed in the last two years.
- Apply through the My CSCS app or CSCS Online.
The Construction Skills Certification Scheme card shows you have the training and qualifications for the work you do on site. Many main contractors will not let you through the gate without one.
What it costs
The application fee is £36. CSCS says the fee will rise to £42 from 1 February 2027. Apprentice cards are free.2 If you need a card, applying before February saves £6.
The card types
CSCS issues thirteen different cards.1 The main ones are:
- Labourer, for general site labouring.
- Blue Skilled Worker and Gold Skilled Worker, for qualified tradespeople.
- Manager, the black card, for site managers.
- Supervisory, for supervisors.
- Academically Qualified Person and Professionally Qualified Person, for people such as engineers and surveyors.
- Apprentice, Trainee, Provisional, Industry Placement and Experienced Worker cards, for people still training or gaining qualifications.
The test
Most cards need you to have passed the right level of the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test, or an approved alternative, within the last two years. You book the test with CITB, not CSCS.3
| Test level | Used for |
|---|---|
| Operatives | Labourer, Trainee, Apprentice and most Blue and Gold cards |
| Managers and Professionals | Black Manager card, and Academically and Professionally Qualified Person cards |
| Specialists | Gold Supervisor, and some Blue and Gold cards |
The Labourer card
As well as the test, a Labourer card needs a qualification such as the Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment, or an approved alternative. A first Labourer card lasts two years.4
How to apply
Apply through the My CSCS app or on CSCS Online. Employers, training providers and other third parties must use CSCS Online.2 Have a debit or credit card ready for the fee.
Common questions
How much is a CSCS card?
The application fee is £36. CSCS says it will increase to £42 from 1 February 2027. Apprentice cards are free.
Where do I apply for a CSCS card?
Through the My CSCS app or CSCS Online. Employers and training providers must use CSCS Online.
How long does a CSCS card last?
It depends on the card. Blue and Gold Skilled Worker, Manager and Supervisory cards last five years. A first Labourer card lasts two years.
Sources
- Types of CSCS cards, CSCS. Accessed 11 November 2026.
- Applying for cards, CSCS. Accessed 11 November 2026.
- Health, safety and environment test, CSCS. Accessed 11 November 2026.
- Labourer card, CSCS. Accessed 11 November 2026.
- Renew or replace a CSCS card, CSCS. Accessed 11 November 2026.
General information only. This is not legal, insurance or financial advice. Your own policy wording decides what is covered.