CSCS Green (Labourer) Card — Your Complete Guide

What Is the CSCS Green Card?

The CSCS Green card — also known as the Labourer Card — shows employers that you have completed the required health and safety training to work safely in a general labouring role.

It’s part of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS), which ensures workers on construction sites meet nationally recognised standards.

New from February 2025: First-time Green cards are valid for two years. After that, you can renew for five years by providing proof that you’re still working as a labourer.

The CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) test used for your application will now remain valid for three years, allowing you to reuse it when renewing your card.

Who Needs a Green CSCS Card?

The Green card is designed for general labourers — those who help keep sites running by assisting trades, moving materials, and maintaining site safety and cleanliness.

If you work as a skilled tradesperson, manager, or supervisor, you’ll need a different CSCS card type that reflects your qualifications and job responsibilities.

• • Tradesperson – CSCS Blue Card
  • Supervisor – CSCS Gold Card
  • Manager – CSCS Black Card

Holding the wrong card can delay site access, so it’s worth checking before you apply.

How to Qualify For The Green CSCS Card

To get a CSCS Green Labourer Card, you must complete two requirements:

1.  Pass the CITB HS&E Operatives Test

• 50 multiple-choice questions
• 45 minutes
• Pass mark: 45/50 (90%)

2.  Hold an approved health and safety qualification, such as one of the following:

• Level 1 Award in Health & Safety in a Construction Environment (RQF)
• SCQF Level 4 equivalent (for Scotland)
• Or an accepted alternative, including:
  • CITB 1-day Health & Safety Awareness (HSA) Course
  • NPORS Site Safety Awareness
  • IOSH SHE for Construction Workers
  • NOCN HSA, Safe2Site, or SPA Core Construction

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Green Card

Step 1: Complete your qualifying course

Finish either the Level 1 Award or the CITB HSA course.
You’ll receive a certificate once you pass.

Step 2: Book and pass the CITB HS&E Operatives Test

You can book this directly with CITB and pay  the official fee if you wish. We would also recommend that you obtain the CITB revision app to help you prepare.

Step 3: Apply for your Green Card

Go to the CSCS Online application portal or use the My CSCS app.
Upload your certificates, HS&E test pass number, and photo ID.
Pay the official fee.

Step 4: Receive your card

Digital versions are issued immediately via the My CSCS app; your physical card usually arrives within a few days.

However if you book the Goldcross Training CSCS Green Card Package we will take care of all of this on your behalf, ensuring that the card is delivered directly to your ‘letter box’.

2025 Validity and Renewal Rules

From 1 February 2025, new Green cards are valid for two years.

When you renew, you can obtain a five-year card by providing proof that you’re still working in a labouring role — such as payslips or employer confirmation.

For the Labourer card, the CITB HS&E Operatives Test now remains valid for three years, so you can use the same pass result for your renewal as long as it’s within that window.

Why Choose Goldcross Training?

• • CITB-approved training provider with years of industry experience
  • E-Learning, Tutor Led-Online and in-classroom course options that fit around your work commitments
  • Clear guidance on the CITB HS&E test and the CSCS application process
  • Fast certificate turnaround so you can apply for your card quickly
  • Expert support for anyone progressing from labouring to skilled roles

Our focus is on making the process simple and affordable — so you can get qualified, get your card, and get back on site fast.

FAQs – CSCS Green (Labourer) Card

How long does the card last?

New cards last two years. Renewed cards are valid for five years when you provide employment evidence.

Can I apply without taking the HS&E test?

No. The CITB HS&E Operatives Test is mandatory for every applicant.

Is the Green card for skilled trades?

No. It’s for general labourers. Skilled workers should apply for the correct skilled CSCS card instead.

What if I already completed a Health & Safety course?

You may still be eligible if your qualification is on the current list of CSCS-approved alternatives. We’ll help you check before you apply.

How long does the process take?

With the right documents, you can complete your training, pass the test and receive your card within a few weeks.

Get Site-Ready with Goldcross Training

Goldcross Training makes getting your CSCS Green Card straightforward and stress-free.

We’ll guide you through choosing the right course, preparing for your test and submitting your application correctly the first time.

👉 Book your CITB Health & Safety Awareness Course with Goldcross Training today and take the next step towards earning your CSCS Green Labourer Card.