Learn everything you need to know about the Blue CSCS Card from this article. Find out how to get it, how long it lasts, why you need it and much more. This skilled workers card could be the difference between you getting a job or not.
What is a Blue CSC Card?
A blue CSCS card is one of many CSCS cards available, and, like the others, it proves the competence of construction workers. CSCS cards are used as evidence that a worker is able and skilled in their role up to their level (indicated by the type of card).
The blue skilled worker card is issued to workers with the relevant training, experience and competency to fulfil the required responsibilities.
The construction industry and UK initiatives are committed to improving the skill level and quality of the workforce. CSCS cards are used as proof to determine the expertise and competence and person has in the industry.
Requirements for a Blue CSCS Card
To get your blue CSCS card, also known as a Skilled Workers card, you will need to have completed an NVQ Level 2 (or the equivalent). While there are many NVQs available, the qualification must be relevant to the worker, and you can even hold multiple NVQs linked to one card.
Therefore, depending on your roles and responsibilities, you will need to obtain a Level 2 NVQ in that specific field, this could be in cladding, demolition, insulation, steel fixing and a lot more. You can see a comprehensive list of NVQs here.
Additionally, it is mandatory that all applicants for a Blue CSCS card have a valid CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test (HS&E), this has to be within the last 2 years. This test can easily be renewed if you do not have a valid one, it is a multiple-choice test to ensure a basic understanding of onsite safety.
Who is the Blue CSCS Card for?
The Blue CSCS card is one of the entry-level cards that you can attain and it reflects the knowledge of holding a Level 2 NVQ. Construction NVQs are nationally recognised and equivalent to standard forms of education. The Blue CSCS card, requiring a Level 2 NVQ, shows an equivalence to 4-5 GCSEs graded A-C.
As you get your NVQ Level 2, you are likely to be gaining experience in a specialised construction role such as electrical work, signaller, insulation, plumbing, bricklaying, roofing and many more (see our full list here).
Why do you need a Blue CSCS Card?
All CSCS cards, including the blue card, indicated a specific level of expertise, equivalent to an educational degree. Therefore, employers frequently ask for a specific level of NVQ before you can apply for a job, and you can prove this with your CSCS card.
As you gain more experience in the construction industry, it becomes easier to apply for better roles if you have the correct CSCS card and NVQ level. Therefore, if you want to level up your career and keep progressing, you will need an NVQ to get your CSCS card.
Obtaining a Blue CSCS Card
Once you have the Level 2 NVQ qualification and a valid HSE&E certificate, you are now ready to apply and obtain your Blue CSCS Skilled Workers card.
The best way to do this is directly via the CSCS online application portal. Some documents you may readily need are:
- A scanned copy of your qualification
- ID number from your valid HS&E test
- Debit/credit card on hand to pay for the application fee
When does a CSCS Card Expire?
Upon getting your Blue CSCS card, it is valid for 5 years. The renewal is a simple process and can be done via the online CSCS account you create when applying for the CSCS cards.
Additionally, you can also use a handy feature of CITB which is their “Card Checker” This can help you monitor the expiration dates of your cards and training.
If you are unsure of what card to apply for, CSCS offers a “Card Finder” tool that can help you narrow down exactly what you should be applying for.
How much does it cost to get a Blue CSCS Card?
All CSCS cards are currently £36, however, this price is separate from the price of the NVQ you need and the HS&E test that you may require.
Why do I need a Level 2 NVQ to get my Blue CSCS Card?
Previously, you could get a CSCS card and renew it just from having industry experience. This scheme was known as the Industry Accreditation Scheme (also known as the Grandfather Rights Scheme).
However, the UK government has now stopped the renewal of CSCS cards via these schemes, and the only way to get your card renewed will be by having the relevant NVQ level. So, you will need to pass the correct NVQ assessment to renew your card. If by the end of 2024, you do not have the correct NVQ level, you will not be able to renew your card.
Finding your NVQ Level 2
As mentioned, a Level 2 NVQ is mandatory for a Blue Skilled Worker CSCS card, therefore, you can find the right assessment through us, at Think Construction Skills. We offer a whole range of level 2 NVQs, such as, but not limited to:
- Road building
- Formwork
- Construction
- Highway maintenance
- Logistics
- Insulation
- Demolition
- Piling
- Cladding
- Plant
- Roofing
- Wood occupations
- Steel erection
You can check out our full list of available level 2 NVQs here.
If I have to get an NVQ, is there Funding for this?
Yes, there is funding for level 2 NVQs, currently if a company is a CITB levy payer, they can get funding for the NVQ Level 2 assessments, whereby it is free. Therefore, when you apply for your Blue CSCS card, you will only have a small card application fee of £36. Apply here for your free NVQ assessment.
What is the difference between a CSCS Card and a CPCS Card?
In short, CSCS stands for Construction Skills Certification Scheme and CPCS is the Construction Plant Competence Scheme.
When you are focusing on a career in construction plants you will require a CPCS card, however, for general construction and those previously mentioned career paths you can take, you will need a CSCS card.
You can learn more about the difference between these 2 cards via our article here.
