CSCS card types and what they cover
There are over 200 different CSCS card types, but the most common ones you'll encounter in general construction are: the Green Labourer card (for workers who have passed the CITB health, safety and environment test and hold a relevant CSCS award); the Blue Skilled Worker card (for workers with an NVQ Level 2 or 3 in a relevant occupation); the Gold Supervisor card; and the Black Manager card. Each has different qualification requirements and similar 5-year validity periods.
The 5-year expiry cycle
Most CSCS cards are valid for 5 years. The exact expiry date is on the front of the card. With a crew of even 10 workers, each hired at different times, you can easily have 10 different expiry dates staggered across any 5-year window — meaning on any given month, someone's card is potentially due for renewal.
Why cards lapse — and who is responsible
Cards lapse when workers don't track their own expiry dates — which is common. As an employer, you're not legally liable for a worker's lapsed CSCS card in the same way you are for a lapsed Right-to-Work document. But you are responsible for access to site, project delivery, and in many cases, your contract with the principal contractor requires all workers to hold valid cards. A lapsed card is a project risk, not just a worker problem.
The renewal process
To renew a CSCS card, the worker needs: (1) a valid CITB Health, Safety and Environment test pass (tests are valid for 2 years); (2) a current, relevant NVQ or equivalent qualification; (3) an online application at cscs.uk.com with a fee. The card is typically issued within 5-7 working days. The key risk is the test booking lead time — popular test centres book up weeks in advance, so planning 6-8 weeks ahead is prudent.