The Black CSCS card — officially the Manager card — is the highest-level CSCS card and proves you hold a recognised construction management qualification. This guide explains exactly how to get one.

What is the Black CSCS card?

The Black CSCS Manager card is for people in senior site roles such as site manager, contracts manager and project manager. It signals to principal contractors that you hold a Level 6 or Level 7 management NVQ and have passed the Managers and Professionals CITB Health, Safety and Environment test.

The qualification you need

To apply for the Black card you must complete a qualifying management NVQ, most commonly the Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Management or, for senior roles, a Level 7 NVQ. These are competence-based qualifications assessed in your workplace — there are no exams.

Step-by-step: getting your Black card

Enrol on a Level 6 or Level 7 construction management NVQ with an approved centre.
Build a portfolio of workplace evidence with your assessor over the qualification period.
Pass the CITB Managers and Professionals Health, Safety and Environment test.
Apply to CSCS for your Black Manager card once the NVQ is certificated.

How long does it take?

Most candidates complete the Level 6 site management NVQ in around 8 to 12 months, depending on how quickly they gather evidence. Experienced managers often finish faster. See our full breakdown of the Level 6 Site Management NVQ.

Start your Black card journey

CTG is a construction-specialist centre delivering management NVQs nationwide. Explore all construction NVQ levels or check the CSCS card routes for your role, then get in touch to enrol.

Your route to the Black card with CTG

Both qualifying NVQs are delivered remotely by e-portfolio: the Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Management and the Level 7 NVQ Diploma in Construction Senior Management. Not sure which fits your role? See the CSCS card guide or ask our team.

Black CSCS card: common questions

What do I need for a black CSCS card?

A Level 6 or Level 7 construction management NVQ (or another qualification CSCS accepts for the Manager card), plus the CSCS Health, Safety & Environment test for managers and professionals.

Level 6 or Level 7: which one for the black card?

Both lead to the black Manager card. Level 6 is for site and contracts managers running projects; Level 7 is for directors and senior managers responsible for the wider business.

How long does it take to get a black CSCS card?

With CTG the NVQ typically takes 4–8 weeks, assessed on the management work you already do. Then you pass the HS&E test and apply to CSCS.

Do other management qualifications count, such as CMI?

CSCS accepts some other management and professional qualifications for the Manager card. Check your exact qualification in the CSCS Card Finder before applying. If it is not listed, a Level 6 or Level 7 NVQ is the standard route.

Will a black card increase my pay?

The card does not set your pay. It proves you are qualified to manage on site, which many main contractors require for manager roles.

Is there a Level 8 NVQ in construction management?

No. Level 7 is the highest NVQ in construction management, so the Level 7 NVQ in Construction Senior Management is the top of the ladder.

How to Get a Black CSCS Card (Manager Card) in 2025