CSCS Cards Explained: From Green to Black

The CSCS card you can apply for depends on the qualification you hold. Here’s how each construction NVQ maps to a CSCS card — and how CTG can get you there.

Green — Labourer Card

For general site operatives. Requires a Level 1 award plus the CITB Health, Safety & Environment test. A starting point before a skilled-trade NVQ.

Blue — Skilled Worker Card

For qualified tradespeople. Achieved with a Level 2 construction NVQ in your trade.

Blue CSCS card by trade:

Gold — Advanced Craft & Supervisor Card

A Level 3 trade NVQ leads to the Gold Advanced Craft card. Supervisory NVQs (Level 3 Occupational Work Supervision or Level 4 Site Supervision) lead to the Gold Supervisor card.

Black — Manager Card

The highest card, for senior site and project managers. Achieved with a Level 6 or Level 7 construction management NVQ.

Lifting roles & IQA

For lifting qualifications, the Level 5 NVQ Diploma in Controlling Lifting Operations (Planning Lifts) leads to the Blue CSCS Skilled Worker card. For the Level 4 Supervising Lifts route, check the CSCS Card Finder for the correct card for your role. IQA (Internal Quality Assurance) qualifications do not carry a CSCS card route.

Browse all NVQ qualifications Ask which card you need