Virtual Cards

A virtual CSCS card is just the same as your plastic CSCS card but stored on your phone rather than in your pocket. Your virtual CSCS card can be accessed using the My CSCS app on your phone.

As soon as the application status indicates the card has been sent for printing, the cardholder can download the virtual card and use it on site immediately – no need to wait for the card in the post.

Your virtual CSCS card does not cost anything. It is included in the price you paid to apply for your physical CSCS card.

Yes. Claim your card using the My CSCS app, and a virtual card will be automatically created for you using the data from your existing CSCS card.

Click here[link] to read our guides on how to use a virtual card.

Virtual cards work by replicating your physical CSCS card digitally onto your phone. This digital card can then be used in the same way as your physical card.

Your virtual CSCS card will show the same information as your physical CSCS card, such as your name, qualifications and the card’s expiry date.

Yes. As a virtual card shows the same information as a physical CSCS card, it can be used to show that your training and qualifications have been certified by CSCS for your role, just like a physical CSCS card.

CSCS are keen to highlight to employers that virtual cards are safe and secure, but just like the traditional plastic card, they should always be electronically checked using the Go Smart software.  This is to ensure the card is valid, the photo is of the correct person and to confirm that the holder has the appropriate training and qualifications for the job they do on site.

The my CSCS app that contains the virtual CSCS card is secure, so it is not possible to edit the virtual card to show anything which has not been verified by CSCS.

The most effective and secure way to check any CSCS card is by using CSCS Smart Check. CSCS Smart Check allows all 2.1 million cards in the construction industry displaying the CSCS logo to be verified using a single interface.

The platform’s API can be built into existing site access systems or card checking equipment while it can also be used via CSCSSmartCheck.co.uk or downloaded as an app using Google Play or the App Store.

Go Smart is the free Construction Industry App for reading and checking physical and virtual CSCS smartcards using a smartphone, tablet or PC. Go Smart not only checks the validity of CSCS cards, but can also record information about them and utilise a number of other helpful tools. You can find out more at www.gosmart.co.uk.

No. The QR code which appears beneath a virtual card changes, so it will not work if you try to use a picture of the QR code at another time.

In theory no. But it will take time for the industry to get used to the virtual card. So, for now CSCS recommends carrying both. But if your site manager says it is OK to present the virtual card then you can leave the plastic card at home. But be mindful that the next site you work on may want to see the plastic card.

Ultimately, the decision on how to use CSCS cards are made by site management. CSCS is happy to provide further information on the use and security of virtual CSCS cards to concerned site managers.

Follow the instruction on the App Support page to find your CSCS card. If you cannot find your virtual card, ensure that you have successfully claimed your card, or that your card application has finished processing.