How to Get Your CSCS Green Card – Step-by-Step Guide for Construction Workers

If you’re starting out in the construction industry, you’ve probably heard about the CSCS Green Card – sometimes called the Labourer Card. This card is your passport to most building sites in the UK, proving that you have the basic health and safety knowledge needed to work safely.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get your CSCS Green Card, explain the requirements, and share how our specialist training courses can help you build the knowledge and skills you need to succeed.

What is the CSCS Green Card?

The Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) is the leading skills certification scheme for the UK construction industry.

The Green Card is specifically for labourers and entry-level site workers. It shows employers that you’ve met the minimum health and safety training requirements to work on-site.

Step 1 – Understand the Requirements

To apply for a CSCS Green Card, you’ll need to complete two key steps:

Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) Test – Operatives level
This is a multiple-choice test assessing your knowledge of site hazards, safety signs, PPE, and safe working practices.
Gain the Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment (RQF)
This is a nationally recognised qualification covering essential safety awareness for construction sites.

Step 2 – Book the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test

You can book your test directly with the CITB online or by phone.

Format: 45-minute computer-based test with multiple-choice questions
Location: Conducted at approved test centres across the UK

Tip: Make sure you take photographic ID on the day, or you won’t be allowed to sit the test.

Step 3 – Complete the Level 1 Health & Safety Qualification

This one-day qualification covers:

Understanding site hazards and risks
Basic health and safety law
PPE use and maintenance
Safe working practices

While Pragmatic Consulting does not currently deliver this exact qualification, we offer specialist training that covers many of the same principles and can strengthen your safety knowledge, including:

NRSWA Safety Training – for working safely around utilities
First Aid at Work – for emergency response on site
Confined Space Training – for high-risk work environments

Step 4 – Apply for Your Green Card

Once you have:

Passed the CITB HS&E Test, and
Completed the Level 1 Health & Safety in a Construction Environment qualification

You can apply for your Green Card via the CSCS website.

Cost: £36 (as of 2025)
Validity: 5 years before renewal is required

Why Related Training Still Matters

Even if you only need the Green Card to start work, employers value additional skills. Completing training such as street works safety, manual handling, or emergency first aid can make you a more attractive hire and prepare you for more varied roles on-site.

At Pragmatic Consulting, our courses are designed to give you the practical, accredited skills that keep you safe and open doors in your career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to get a CSCS Green Card?
A: If you already have the Level 1 qualification and pass your CITB test, you can apply immediately. Most cards arrive within 10 working days.

Q: Do I need a Green Card to work on all construction sites?
A: Most major contractors require it for health and safety compliance, especially on larger projects.

Q: What happens when my card expires?
A: You’ll need to retake the CITB HS&E test and ensure your qualification is still valid before applying for renewal.

Next Steps

If you’re planning to get your CSCS Green Card, start by booking your CITB test and Level 1 qualification. In the meantime, explore our range of related training to boost your site skills and safety knowledge:

Ready to strengthen your skills? Contact us today to find out which course is right for your career path.