Looking to get your black CSCS card?
Training and qualifications to get you ahead in construction
How to get your Black CSCS Manager Card
To get your black CSCS card, you’ll need to complete a construction-related NVQ at level 6, in addition to the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test for managers and professionals.
Our NVQs can be achieved through a mix of online and on-site assessments. Complete your NVQ at your own pace while you work without taking time off.
The CITB Managers and Professionals Health, Safety and Environment Test is a multiple choice test that assesses potential black card holders and applicants in the key areas of safe working, health, safety, and construction management. Passing the CITB Managers and Professionals Health, Safety and Environment Test is a requirement for those applying for a CSCS Black Card.
NVQ Routes To Your Black CSCS Card
The Black CSCS Card demonstrates management competence, allowing you to progress your construction management career.
What does a CSCS Black Card cost?
Our Level 6 NVQs required to achieve the black CSCS card cost £1,600+VAT.
We have a number of payment options to make it easier to access the qualification:
- Payment in full at the start
- 50% deposit + 50% on completion
- 6 equal payments over 6 months
You will also be required to complete the CITB Managers and Professionals Health, Safety and Environment Test to apply for your Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Black Card.
What does CSCS Stand for?
CSCS stands for Construction Skills Certification Scheme.
The Construction Skills Certification Scheme began as a way to assess the competence and qualifications of approved workers in construction. Since its conception in 1995, it is now one of the main details that employers search for when gauging the experience and reliability of a construction worker.
Once completed, your CSCS card will allow you to take on relevant responsibilities in construction related areas in the United Kingdom dependant on which level of CSCS card you have registered for and acquired.
Black CSCS Card FAQ's
The Black CSCS Card demonstrates management competence, allowing you to progress your construction career.
What does CSCS stand for?
CSCS stands for Construction Skills Certification Scheme.
The Construction Skills Certification Scheme began as a way to assess the competence and qualifications of approved workers in construction. Since its conception in 1995, it is now one of the main details that employers search for when gauging the experience and reliability of a construction worker.
Once completed, your CSCS card will allow you to take on relevant responsibilities in construction related areas in the United Kingdom dependant on which level of CSCS card you have registered for and acquired.
Can you get a Black CSCS card with SMSTS?
The short answer is no; an SMSTS certificate is not enough to allow you to gain a black manager’s CSCS card in the construction industry, or any CSCS card.
For a Black CSCS Card, you require the relevant NVQ qualification for management career roles in construction, as well as a completed CITB health and safety test for managers and professionals. Your SSSTS and SMSTS can be used toward your NVQ, so all is not lost.
Completing the required NVQ and CITB test is your best path towards demonstrating your competency as a registered construction management professional.
Alongside an NVQ (SVQ in Scotland), workers are required to have completed and secured a pass in the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test (HS&E) in order to apply for their CSCS card. The CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test is multiple choice and will assess the key areas of operatives working safely on construction sites and in dangerous buildings. The CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test is separate from the previously mentioned apprenticeships and NVQs, therefore you will need to apply for the CITB qualification separately.
How long is the Black CSCS Card valid for?
CSCS cards including the CSCS Black Card are valid for five years and can be renewed after this time has elapsed.
The process of getting a brand new construction management black card involves updating your site health and safety knowledge again by passing the relevant health and safety test to renew. This is how CSCS ensures that safety and on a construction site is maintained and up to date with best practices and changing work conditions.
What other CSCS Cards are there?
The black card is reserved for managerial positions, but other cards are specific to occupation, role and worker level in the industry.
Other construction-related CSCS cards include the Blue CSCS Card, CSCS Gold Card, and CSCS Green Card.
Each CSCS Card has different requirements regarding the completed qualifications needed. Visit each page now for more information on the other cards in the industry.
How can I find out more about the Black CSCS Card?
We are happy to give you a call to check your suitability and be sure it’s the relevant construction qualification for you. It also gives you a chance to ask any questions about your managerial goals, the technical aspects of becoming a recognised site manager and provide us with your information if you’re ready to get started.