The CSCS card is a way to verify that people working on construction sites have the appropriate knowledge and training. This helps prevent on-the-job mishaps that endanger everyone's health and safety. You obtain a CSCS card by taking the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test. There are 150 CITB test centres nationwide including in Nottingham.
What to Expect in the Test
Upon arrival to take the CITB test, simply show your ID to the staff and have your photo taken (for security purposes). When testing begins, you will be given 45 minutes to answer 50 multiple-choice questions. You will receive your results certificate once you complete the exam.
If you fail the exam, you may register to retake it three days after your first attempt. We also suggest that you buy reference materials to help you prepare for the retake exam.
You can find revision materials by following
this link. It is strongly advised that you use these materials, especially if you are retaking the CITB test.
Studying before taking the exam greatly improves your chances of earning a passing score. If you’re ready to take the exam again, click
here to fill our online form.
What to Take With You
You must bring approved identification. If you do not have a valid ID, you will not be able to take the exam (no exceptions). The most common form of identification is a UK driver’s license or passport.
If you don’t have these forms of identification, you need to provide two alternative forms. These include: EU Country ID card, Trade Union Card, British Armed Forces Card, Credit or Debit Card, National Insurance Card, or the latest statements from your bank. You can find a complete list of acceptable alternatives by
following this link.
What to Do Before Going to the Test Centre
For the best results, be sure to double-check your test material before arriving. If you need help preparing for the CITB exam, you can click
here for revision information.
How Do I Book a Test?
Ready to take your CITB test in Nottingham? Simply click
here to fill out our online form.
The 3 Different CITB HS&E TestsAnyone hoping to obtain a CSCS Card in Nottingham will need to take the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test. As of this writing, there are 3 such tests. They are:
The Operatives Test - This is the simplest of the 3 tests, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. If you’re seeking a CSCS Green Card (Labourer) or a CSCS Red Card (Provisional), take this test.
The Specialist Test - This test asks for more specific knowledge about the subjects covered. It’s typically given to Plumbers, Electricians and others with special skills. If you want a Red Card (Trainee, Apprentice or Experienced Worker), Blue Card (Skilled Worker) or Gold Card (Supervisory, Advanced), take this test.
The Managers and Professionals Test - This test goes into extraordinary detail about the subjects covered and is typically given to those seeking a Red Card (Technical, Supervisor, Managers), White Card (Academically or Professionally Qualified Person) or Black Card (Manager).
Take these tips to heart
Revise, revise, revise - None of these tests are easy. Having to take them over again will cost money and could cost you lost opportunities. We strongly recommend you buy and use revision materials and arrive at the Nottingham test centre prepared.
Get to know the computer software - You’ll have an opportunity before the test starts to familiarise yourself with the test software. We suggest you make the best of it. You don’t want anything to interfere with your ability to complete the test in a timely fashion.
Don’t waste time - If you’re having trouble with a particular question, just move on. Leave yourself some time at the end to circle back to the questions you skipped.
Answer every question - Even if you have to guess, make sure you answer every question on the test. If you guess on a multiple-choice question you have a 20-25% chance of being correct. If you leave it blank you have no chance.
The Bottom Line
The CITB Test doesn’t have to be an ordeal. Take the above tips to heart and you’ll give yourself the best possible chance of passing and receiving your CSCS Card.