CSCS Blue Card – Skilled Worker
Getting a CSCS Blue Card is a simple three step process:
- Book your CSCS (CITB) Operatives test at your local test centre.
- Complete your NVQ level 2 (or email in a copy of your NVQ level 2 certificate).
- Apply for a CSCS Card.
Once you have completed this process and have your CSCS Blue Card you can work on construction sites in the UK. Your CSCS Blue Card is valid for 5 years.
The Construction Skills Certification Scheme began in 1995 as a way to address the problem of unqualified workers on construction sites. Since then it has grown into the gauge of construction worker’s competence. If you have the appropriate CSCS card this will allow you entry on to on to construction sites in the UK. You must have the correct CSCS card for your trade or you could be denied entry to a site.
The CSCS Blue Card is a Level 2 CSCS card, one step above the Green Card provided to labourers. It is issued to skilled workers such as steel fixers, roofers, carpenters and bricklayers and proves they have adequate training in construction-related health safety and environment issues so that they are not likely to be a liability on a construction site. Most construction companies today insist that workers have a relevant CSCS card before they’ll be allowed to set foot on a work site.
Getting Your CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card
To work on construction sites in the UK you must hold a valid CSCS Card. A CSCS Blue Card is the card for skilled workers who hold an NVQ level 2. Applying for your card is a simple process:
- Book your CSCS (CITB) Operatives or specialists at your local test centre - There are more than 150 CITB test centres based around the UK so you are sure to find one near you.
- Pass the CSCS Operatives test - If, for some reason, you fail the test the first time you can retake it. But you must wait a minimum of 48 hours.
- Complete your NVQ level 2 (or email in a copy of your NVQ level 2 certificate)- Level 2 indicates you are able to apply your knowledge and skills in a variety of relevant work activities both on your own and in collaboration with others. You must meet this requirement to obtain a Blue CSCS Card.
- Apply for a CSCS Card- After completing all of the above steps you can apply for a CSCS Card. Your card will then be sent to you via the post.
Once you have completed this process and have your CSCS Blue Card you can work on construction sites in the UK. Your CSCS Blue Card is valid for 5 years.
To get a CSCS Blue Card click the “BOOK CITB TEST” button below, fill in the form and make payment safely and securely.
BOOK CITB TEST
BOOK CITB TEST
If you do not have an NVQ level 2 yet please fill in the NVQ level 2 enquiry form.
Once completed you will receive an email confirmation of your CITB touch screen test date and time at your local test centre.
CSCS Blue Card FAQs
CSCS Blue Card FAQs
What Does CSCS Stand For?
CSCS stands for “Construction Skills Certification Scheme”. This programme was initiated in 1995 as a way to prevent unqualified individuals from causing mishaps on construction sites. The programme is credited with making construction sites as a whole significantly safer.
Who is Eligible for a CSCS Blue Card?
To be eligible for the CSCS Blue Card you must
- Be at least 16 years of age.
- Have Level 2 construction related NVQ qualification or equivalent (such as a City and Guilds Craft Certificate).
- Pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test.
Is There a CITB Test Centre Near Me?
There are more than 150 CITB Test Centres nationwide, so there is bound to be one near you. When you book your appointment to take the CSCS Operatives test you will be given a chance to choose a test centre in your area.
Is Having a CSCS Blue Card a Legal Requirement?
No. However, because the vast majority of construction companies in the UK voluntarily comply with the CSCS programme, having a CSCS Blue Skilled Worker Card is a practical requirement if you hope on most construction sites In the UK.
How Long Will it Take for My Blue Card to Arrive?
Once you have satisfied all the requirements and paid the fee your card will be sent to you via the post. It typically takes up to 5-10 working days to arrive, provided you have supplied an accurate address.
How Long is My New Blue Card Valid For?
Your new CSCS Blue Card will be valid for a period of 5 years from the date of issue. At the end of that period you will need to renew the card and will not be allowed onto a construction site until you do.
