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CSCS PQP Card

The white card for chartered and incorporated professionals who need site access.

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The Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) card is for members of CSCS-approved professional bodies. It is not tied to an NVQ or a degree: your membership is the proof of competence.

Surveyors, chartered builders, civil and structural engineers and architects visiting site often hold one.

Professional bodies that count

CSCS approves a list of institutions and membership grades. Commonly accepted bodies include RICS, CIOB, ICE and IStructE. Check your grade, as some student or affiliate grades are not accepted.

Member ofTypical roles
RICS or CIOBSurveyors, chartered builders
ICE or IStructECivil and structural engineers
Senior membersDirectors, senior managers

Keep your membership up to date. The PQP card rests on it, so renew your membership before you renew the card.

What happens after 5 years

The PQP card is not renewed in the usual way. When it expires, you make a fresh application showing your membership is still current and a MAP test pass from the 2 years before you apply.

How to apply

  1. Confirm your membership gradeCheck it is on the CSCS approved list.
  2. Pass the MAP testOr the CITB Managers test. Coteca books MAP for £47, including the £23.50 CITB fee.
  3. Prepare evidenceID and proof of current membership.
  4. ApplyCoteca applies for £66 including the £36 CSCS fee.

The test for a PQP card

You need a pass in the CITB Managers and Professionals (MAP) test or the CIC Health and Safety test, taken within the last 2 years. MAP has 50 questions in 45 minutes and you need 46 right.

  • Chartered status does not mean an easy pass. The 92% pass mark leaves little room for error.
  • Focus revision on site risk and managing others, not only design or commercial knowledge.
  • Arrive 15 minutes early with original ID that matches your booking.

Use the free MAP mock test and book your MAP test.

Situations we see often

Chartered surveyor needing site access

Current RICS membership at an accepted grade plus a MAP pass is all you need.

Student member of a professional body

Student grades are often not accepted. The AQP card may suit you until you upgrade.

PQP card expiring

Renew your membership, pass MAP again and submit a new application in good time.

When your PQP card runs out

The PQP card lasts 5 years. When it expires, CSCS asks for a new application rather than a renewal.

  1. Check your membershipMake sure it is current and at an accepted grade.
  2. Pass MAP againYour pass must be from the 2 years before you apply.
  3. Submit a new applicationSend proof of membership, your test pass and ID.
  4. Receive your cardIt normally arrives within 7 to 10 working days of approval.

Mistakes that delay a PQP card

  • A student or affiliate grade. Some grades are not accepted, so check yours first.
  • Lapsed membership. CSCS checks membership is current at the time you apply.
  • Expecting a renewal. After 5 years you make a new application, not a renewal.
  • Booking the wrong test. The PQP card needs the CITB MAP test, not the Operatives test.

Book the PQP route.

Get your PQP card with Coteca

Tell us your professional body and grade. We confirm it is accepted, book the MAP test and submit your application.

Book your PQP cardCall 0208 099 4324

Frequently asked questions

What does PQP mean?

Professionally Qualified Person. It is a white CSCS card for members of approved professional bodies.

Do I need an NVQ for the PQP card?

No. Your professional membership replaces the NVQ requirement.

Can I renew my PQP card?

You make a new application when it expires, with proof of current membership and a recent MAP pass.

Can a PQP holder get a black card?

Yes, if you also complete a construction management NVQ at Level 4 to 7.

What colour is the PQP card?

It is a white card.

Can I move to the black card later?

Yes. PQP holders who move into contracting roles sometimes add a management NVQ and apply for the Black Manager card.

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