CSCS Card
CSCS stands for “Construction Skills Certification Scheme”. You will usually need a CSCS card to work in construction. There different types CSCS cards for different occupations and qualifications in construction.
Here is a full list of CSCS cards to find out which one you need: Types of cards | Official CSCS Website
You DO NOT need a card if you work on a construction site, but in a non-construction related role. Click here for a list of non-construction related occupations. If you do not need a CSCS card, but the site refuses entry, get in touch with CSCS via the Contact us page and select “A complaint” and provide details of your occupation and the site address. CSCS will investigate the matter.
CITB Test
To acquire a CSCS card, you need to take a CITB Health, safety and environment test (“CITB Test”). This is sometimes referred to as the “CSCS test”.
CITB tests are run by Pearson VUE at test centres. The test costs £22.50. You have 45 minutes to answer 50 questions.
1. Types of Test
There are three types of CITB test. Make sure the test you take is the correct one for the CSCS card you need. If you are unsure, use this CSCS card finder which tells you which test you need to take.
- Operatives test – This tests basic health and safety. Pass mark = 90%. Required for the Labourer card, the Trainee card, the Apprentice card, most Blue Skilled Worker cards and most Gold Advanced Craft cards.
- Specialist tests –This tests everything in the operative test, plus specialist areas such as supervision or working at heights. Pass mark = 90%. Required for the Gold Supervisor card, as well as Blue Skilled Worker and Gold Advanced Craft cards in certain occupations.
- Manager and professional test – this tests everything in the operative test, plus additional material relevant to managers and professionals. Pass mark = 92%. Required for the Black Managers card and the Academically or Professionally Qualified person cards.
2. Book a Test
Book a test online: Book a test – CITB or call 0344 994 4488 to book on the phone.
3. Taking the Test
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your test starts.
Bring your confirmation booking email or letter.
Bring ID that includes your photo and signature.
4. Voiceovers and Interpreters
In Operative test and Specialist tests, you can use an interpreter to translate the test. Pearson VUE will book an interpreter who will meet you at the test centre. The interpreter will only translate the question exactly and cannot provide further help. There are lots of languages available, but sometimes you will need to travel to a more distant test centre if no local interpreter is available. If this is the first time you have used an interpreter for a Pearson VUE exam, Pearson VUE will pay for the interpreter.
In the Operative test, some people can also use a voiceover, where a recorded voice reads-out the question in your language through a headset. However, voiceovers are only available in the following languages:Welsh, Bulgarian, Czech, French, German, Hungarian, Lithuanian, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Romanian, Russian, and Spanish. If your language is not listed, use an interpreter instead
In the Managers and Professionals test, you cannot use an interpreter or voice-over.
To arrange a voice-over or interpreter, contact the Special Assistance team by calling 0344 994 4491 or emailing citb.testingspecialassistance@pearson.com.