CSCS Gold Card

What is the CSCS Gold Card?

The CSCS Gold Card, or the CSCS Supervisor Card as it is sometimes called, acts as evidence that the holder has the required level of competence to fulfil the role of supervisor or foreman on site. They will only be issued to experienced workers that have completed the relevant training and demonstrate the required knowledge and skills to perform their role and responsibilities safely and effectively.

If your role is predominantly as a skilled worker or as a manager then the CSCS Gold Card is not appropriate. In these circumstances, it would be more appropriate for the individual to hold a CSCS Blue Card or a CSCS Black Card.

How do I become a site supervisor?

Many site supervisors start their career as a bricklayer, labourer or in another entry level position. This allows them to:

  • Gain experience of working in the construction industry
  • Shadow more experienced team members to help develop their craft and supervisory skills
  • Build the trust of existing supervisors and managers
  • Gradually gain increased responsibility in a controlled environment

 

Once you have taken on some supervisory responsibilities, you are able to begin working towards an appropriate NVQ or SVQ and ultimately your CSCS Gold Card.

What courses do we offer to help you get your CSCS Gold Card?

We offer a number of NVQs that allow you to apply for your CSCS Gold Card. These include:

More information on the NVQs we offer can be found on our NVQ page LINK. Alternatively, you can speak to one of our team by calling 0191 229 2031 or completing an enquiry form on our Contact Us page.

How do I apply for the CSCS Gold Card?

There are two key requirements when applying for the CSCS Gold Card.

Scanned copy of your NVQ qualification certificate or equivalent qualification.

All applicants need to have completed an appropriate NVQ qualification. This should be one of the following:

  • Construction related supervisory / technical NVW or SVQ Level 3 or 4
  • Occupational Work Supervision NVQ or SVQ Level 3 (including proof of endorsed occupation)

 

Test ID number from your CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) Test.

All applicants must have completed a CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test (HS&E) in the past two years. The HS&E Test required is dependent on the qualification that is being applied for.

CSCS Gold Card applicants will need to complete the Specialist Test to ensure they have an appropriate level of health, safety and environmental awareness before going on site. The test covers the five core knowledge areas from the Operative Test but also includes questions on the chosen specialist area, Supervisory.

Potential candidates should note that the HS&E Test is owned and administered by CITB (not CSCS) and as such, any queries relating to the test should be directed to CITB directly.

Can I apply for the CSCS Gold Card using the CRO or CSO card?

No. Historically, individuals have used a Construction Site Operative Card (CSO) or Construction Related Occupation Card (CRO) to access work on construction projects.

However, they were deemed to no longer support the industry goal to fully qualify the workforce. As such, the CSCS withdrew the Construction Site Operative Card (CSO) in 2014 and stopped issuing the Construction Related Occupation Card (CRO) from 31st March 2017.

Supervisors and managers that still hold CSO or CRO cards will need to undertake a construction supervisory or management NVQ from Level 3 to Level 7 to attain an appropriate CSCS card and allow them to continue working on site.

How do I renew my CSCS Gold Card?

CSCS Gold Cards need to be renewed every five years.  The easiest way to renew your card is via the CSCS online application service.

To renew your CSCS Gold Card you need to prove you have the appropriate training and qualifications required to carry out your job and will also need to pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test (HS&E).

CSCS cards can be renewed 6 months prior to and up to 6 months after, the expiry date printed on the card. The expiry date of a renewed CSCS card will be the expiry date of the original CSCS card plus the lifespan of the card.

How much does the CSCS Gold Card cost?

All CSCS cards cost £36 and all CITB HS&E tests cost £22. Please note that the CITB HS&E test will cost £22.50 from April 1st 2022.

There are a number of third party organisations that offer CSCS card application services. If they are charging more than the prices quoted above then please ensure you understand what additional services you are being offered, if any. Invariably, the cheapest and most efficient way to apply for a CSCS card is directly via the CSCS online application service.