What Is The CSCS Blue Card? | Checkatrade
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What is the CSCS blue card?

If you want to win more skilled work in the construction trade you’ll find more opportunities if you know what is a CSCS blue card. Read on to see what qualifications you need for a blue CSCS card and how to get one.

Why tradespeople need a CSCS card

As a tradesperson, you’ve probably already heard about the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS). You may well have had a card already, or worked with someone that carries one. But if you’ve encountered different colours, you might be wondering “what is a CSCS blue card”?

If you’re newer to skilled trade work and unfamiliar with the scheme, there are 13 different cards. They all have different purposes, and cover levels of experience, qualifications and seniority for working on sites.

While you don’t need a card by law, having one should help you win more work.

For certain jobs, if you don’t have the right CSCS card, you may not be allowed onto a construction site. Knowing whether you need a card is usually included as part of a person’s work contract.

What are the benefits of joining the scheme?

  • Knowing what card you need can help you find more opportunities
  • You can demonstrate you have the right skills and competencies for the job
  • You can show you know how to work safely on construction sites

Getting the right card can help your job prospects in the construction industry. Either as an employee, a contractor, or as a business.

What is a CSCS blue card?

A blue card is for skilled workers that join the CSCS scheme. That means that to qualify, you’ll already have plenty of construction industry experience.

As well as experience, you’ll need the right qualifications to apply for a CSCS blue card.

How do I upgrade my CSCS status?

Red and green cards exist for less qualified tradespeople. A green card is given as an entry-level card for labourers. Skilled workers there don’t need a green CSCS card.

As a tradesperson, if you have a green card, keep reading to learn what else you need to make the switch from green to blue.

Once you have met the necessary qualifications you can apply for a CSCS blue card.

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What qualifications do I need for a blue CSCS card?

One of the main differences between the green and blue cards are the qualifications you’ll need. However, if you’re wondering ‘Can I get a Blue CSCS card without an NVQ?’, the answer is no.

In order to qualify, you’ll need:

  • A construction-related NVQ or SVQ level 2 (It’s not required for a green card)
  • Alternatively, complete an apprenticeship
  • Consider training towards a City and Guilds Craft Certificate

If you’re thinking about the apprenticeship route to qualify for a blue CSCS card, it’s best to check what CSCS-recognised apprenticeships are available.

An advantage of apprenticeship schemes is you get on-the-job training. Checkatrade members can also save on the cost of training thanks to our partnerships with providers such as Logic4Training.

Health and safety knowledge

Being eligible for a CSCS blue card also requires a sound knowledge of health and safety on site. You must also take the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test.

Site safety is all about recognising the hazards.

As a skilled worker, you’ll probably need to take the test for specialists. To stay qualified, you’ll need to take the test within two years of applying.

Grants for CSCS blue card training

If you work for a trade business then your employer might get help paying for your training.

As a business owner, you should also be aware of the grants available to smaller businesses, exactly for that purpose.

The Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) also offers grants for NVQ training. Grants are available to CITB-registered employers. The standard grant for short qualification courses like NVQs is £600.

Hone your skills and win more work

We can help you find more sales in your area

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How long does a CSCS blue card last?

Once you’ve qualified, the card will be valid for five years. After that, you can apply to renew.

Or, more likely, you’ll have gained new skills and experience. In this case, you may want to think about applying for a more advanced CSCS card.

How much does a CSCS blue card cost?

Here’s what you should expect to pay:

  • A CSCS blue card costs £36
  • The CITB HS&E test costs £22.50 if you book it yourself or £37.50 if CITB does it for you

The cost of both card and test can change, so it’s always best to check they are up to date.

Find more construction work by joining Checkatrade

As a card carrying member of the construction industry, finding more opportunities for your business could be easier if you join Checkatrade.

Our fixed membership option lets you build the plan that’s perfect for you and your business needs.

There are lots of other benefits of Checkatrade membership too.

They include:

  • Dedicated membership advice team
  • Work guarantee up to £1,000
  • Exclusive offers and discounts
  • Up to 20% off Public Liability Insurance
  • Reduced cost of workwear and branding
  • Savings on other business essentials such as vans and materials

Why not start that process today and discover a membership that fits perfectly with the needs of your trade business?

FAQs

What is a CSCS blue card?

This card shows you are a skilled worker in the construction industry.

How do I upgrade my CSCS green to blue?

Green CSCS card holders are labourers and to move up to a blue-card skilled work level you’ll need extra qualifications, usually an NVQ level 2.

Can I get a blue CSCS card without an NVQ?

No. Demonstrating a high level of skill with an NVQ level 2 is a key requirement for qualifying.

How much does a CSCS blue card cost?

The total cost is currently £58.50. This includes the cost of the blue card itself and the Health, Safety and Environment test. It’s worth checking that this is the latest cost.

What is the highest level CSCS card?

If you’re a blue CSCS card holder, aiming for gold skilled worker status could be a good next step. For gold, you’ll need a construction-related NVQ/SVQ level 3. There are also CSCS cards for managerial roles (black) and cards for people with qualifications other than NVQs (White).

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Content disclaimer: This content has been created for general information purposes and should not be taken as formal advice. Read our full disclaimer here.

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