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Construction NVQ Levels Explained: Level 2 to Level 7
What each construction NVQ level means, the CSCS card it leads to, and who it is for — Level 2 Skilled Worker through to Level 7 management.
Construction NVQs run from Level 2 to Level 7. Each level maps to a different role on site and a different CSCS card. This guide explains what each level means and where it leads.
Level 2 — Skilled Worker
A Level 2 construction NVQ confirms trade competence and leads to the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker card. It suits operatives who work independently in a single trade.
Level 3 — Advanced Craft & Supervision
A Level 3 trade NVQ leads to the Gold CSCS Advanced Craft card. The Level 3 Occupational Work Supervision NVQ leads to the Gold CSCS Supervisor card instead.
Level 4 — Site Supervision
The Level 4 Site Supervision NVQ leads to the Gold CSCS Supervisor card. Note that lifting-specific Level 4 qualifications may map to a different card — check the CSCS Card Finder for your exact role.
Level 5 — Senior Supervision & Lifting
A Level 5 NVQ covers senior supervisory and specialist roles. For lift planning qualifications, check the CSCS Card Finder for the correct card.
Level 6 & Level 7 — Management
The Level 6 and Level 7 management NVQs lead to the Black CSCS Manager card, for site, contracts and project managers.
Which level is right for you?
Match the level to your day-to-day responsibilities. Browse every level on our construction NVQ courses page, or use our CSCS card guide to work backwards from the card you need.
Find your level with CTG
Whatever rung you are on, there is a matching NVQ: trade routes at Level 2 and Level 3, the Level 4 Site Supervision Diploma, Level 6 Site Management or the Level 7 Senior Management Diploma. Or browse all construction NVQ courses.