How to Get Your CSCS Green Labourer Card

It depends on how quickly you complete each stage. The Level 1 online training is self-paced — most people finish Stage 1 within a few days. Stage 2 (the assessment) is arranged once you complete Stage 1. The CITB test can usually be booked within a couple of weeks at an approved test centre. Once you hold both the Level 1 certificate and a valid CITB test pass, the CSCS card application itself is processed online. In total, most people complete the full process within 4–8 weeks, though it can be done faster.

There are three costs involved if you go the DIY route: the Level 1 qualification (£99 with National Skills Centre), the CITB HS&E Test fee (currently around £22.50 booked via citb.co.uk), and the CSCS card application fee (currently £36 at cscs.uk.com). That's approximately £157.50 in total. Alternatively, our Complete Package covers all three for £200 — including us arranging your CITB test booking and supporting you through the card application.

Most UK construction sites require workers to hold a valid CSCS card before they are permitted on site. While the CSCS scheme is not a legal requirement in itself, the vast majority of principal contractors and site managers enforce it as a site rule. Without a card, you are likely to be turned away at the gate.

The CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test is a multiple-choice test that assesses your knowledge of construction health, safety, and environmental practices. It is run by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and taken at an approved CITB test centre. There are test centres across the UK. The Operatives test (required for the Green Card) is 50 questions and takes around 45 minutes. You must hold a valid CITB test pass before applying for your CSCS card.

No — for the CSCS Green Labourer Card, the Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment is a mandatory requirement. You cannot substitute it with another qualification for this specific card. You also need a valid CITB HS&E Test pass. Both are required before you can apply.

The CSCS Green Card is valid for 5 years. Before it expires, you will need to renew it. Renewal requirements may change over time — check cscs.uk.com for the current renewal process when your card is approaching its expiry date.

Yes. Both the Level 1 qualification and a valid CITB HS&E Test pass are required for the Green Card application. Holding one without the other is not sufficient. The CITB test result is only valid for 2 years, so if you completed it a while ago you may need to resit it.

The CSCS Green Labourer Card is designed for general site workers and labourers who do not hold a trade-specific qualification. If you hold a relevant NVQ or trade qualification, a different card (such as the Blue Skilled Worker card) may be more appropriate. The CSCS card finder at cscs.uk.com can confirm which card is right for your role and qualifications.