Understanding CSCS Red Cards
Published: May 1, 2025
CSCS’s Apprentice, Industry Placement, and Trainee cards are for construction workers who have either achieved a construction related non-competence assessed training qualification or are working towards a qualification in the construction industry. Read a breakdown of how each card works, and who can apply for them below:
CSCS Apprentice card
The CSCS Apprentice card is issued free of charge and is for individuals on recognised apprenticeships.
It is valid for four years and six months and cannot be renewed. Cardholders are expected to complete their apprenticeship by the time the card expires and apply for a skilled CSCS card.
Learn more about the CSCS Apprentice card.
CSCS Industry Placement card
The CSCS Industry Placement card is for those undergoing a construction-related qualification or training programme which requires the completion of a minimum 30-day work placement, such as T-Levels or Trainee Skills Development Programmes.
This card is valid for three years and cannot be renewed. In order to progress onto a skilled card when the Industry Placement card expires the holders needs to either have completed, or be registered onto a recognised qualification for an alternative card.
Learn more about the CSCS Industry Placement card.
CSCS Trainee card
The CSCS Trainee card is available to those registered for a competence-assessed qualification and those who have achieved a non-competence assessed training qualification.
- Five-year Trainee card (non-renewable)
A five-year Trainee card is for those registered for, and working towards, a competence-assessed qualification such as an NVQ/SVQ or an academic qualification such as a HNC, HND or Degree.
The qualification may be vocational or academic, but it must be acceptable for a skilled CSCS card. Holders of the five-year card are expected to complete their qualification by the time it expires.
- Two-year Trainee card (renewable)
Individuals who have attained an approved Level 2 (or above) occupation related non-competence qualification within the last five years are eligible for an initial two-year card.
Upon the card’s expiration, the holder can gain a new three-year Trainee card by providing evidence they are registered onto an N/SVQ or an agreed alternative, which leads to a skilled card upon completion.