Red CSCS Apprentice Card
The red CSCS apprentice card will demonstrate that you have the relevant health and safety awareness required to gain hands-on site experience and have recently registered on an apprenticeship scheme and working career in the construction industry.
Red CSCS Apprentice Card
Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS)
Get Licenced What is the Apprentice Licence?
If you’re taking your first steps towards a career in the construction industry and have recently registered on an apprenticeship scheme, having the red CSCS apprentice card will demonstrate that you have the relevant health and safety awareness required to gain hands-on site experience.
The red card is provided as a transitional arrangement for those who are just starting out or for those with relevant industry experience but who do not yet have the necessary qualification for the full CSCS card.
You can confirm that you are registered for an apprenticeship using one of the following:
A letter from the Managing Agency of your apprenticeship, confirming that you are registered with them and which qualifications (with full titles and pathways) you are registered for.
A letter from your apprenticeship training provider confirming that you are registered with them and which qualifications (with full titles and pathways) you are registered for.
Your Apprenticeship Agreement, provided that it shows the occupation and qualification (including pathways) you are registered for.
Eligibility
To qualify for an apprentice licence, you must be on an accredited apprenticeship scheme.
When applying for this card, you may be exempt from the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test if you have:
A letter or email from the Managing Agency of your apprenticeship (which must be clearly identified that they are a Managing Agency) confirming that you have met the Managing Agency’s Health and Safety requirements.
A certificate for a one-day Health and Safety Awareness course.
A Health and Safety unit included in your induction or initial qualification.
If you have none of the above, then you will need to take the CITB Health, Safety & Environment test before applying for the Apprentice card.
How do I apply for an Apprentice Licence?
You can apply for the Red CSCS Apprentice Card over the phone by directly calling the Construction Skills Certification Scheme on 0344 99 44 777. You will need to email evidence that you are registered for an apprenticeship to cscs@citb.co.uk prior to calling.
FAQs
CSCS Cards are issued as part of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme. The scheme aims to increase safety on construction sites and to ensure that those working in the construction industry have the necessary health and safety knowledge. Having a card contributes towards the overall safety and standard of a construction site.
The CSCS Card is not a legal requirement, but is highly recommended, as many contractors only employ those that have the card. Some construction projects may also have certain conditions regarding CSCS Cards, meaning you will need the card to work at certain sites.
Applicants for this card do not need to take the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test. If they have met their Apprenticeship Managing Agency’s health and safety requirements before applying for the card.Please note they must be registered with a qualification.
It takes up to 5 working days for your CSCS card to arrive. You will need to contact CSCS directly and apply for it. Make sure that you have your assessment certificate handy, as this will be required when you apply.
This card is valid for four years and six months, and cannot be renewed.
Upon completion of your apprenticeship, you may be able to apply for a Blue Skilled Worker or Gold Advanced Craft card.
