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The course, the test and the paperwork you need for a Labourer card, and how to keep it when you renew.
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To get a Green CSCS card (the Labourer card), you need two things: a recognised health and safety qualification and a pass in the CITB Operatives Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test from the last two years. The qualification is usually the one-day Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment, or the CITB Health and Safety Awareness (HSA) course.
The card is for general labouring only. This guide explains each requirement, the renewal rules that changed in 2025 and how much it costs to get carded.
Use this as a checklist before you apply.
| Requirement | What counts | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Qualification | Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment, or the CITB Health and Safety Awareness (HSA) course | The Level 1 Award does not expire. The HSA certificate lasts five years |
| HS&E test | CITB Operatives test, 50 questions in 45 minutes, pass mark 45 out of 50 | Must be passed within the two years before you apply |
| Identity | Photo ID that matches your application | Names must match exactly across your documents |
| Renewal evidence | Proof you still work as a labourer | Required for Labourer card renewals from 1 February 2025 |
Not sure the Green card is right for you? Compare it with every other colour in our CSCS card guide.
The Green Labourer card shows a site manager that you understand basic site safety. It covers labouring tasks such as moving materials, cleaning down, loading out and helping trades. It does not cover skilled work. If you lay bricks, fix plasterboard or hang doors, you need a skilled route, usually an NVQ leading to a Blue card.
The card lasts five years. Because it is aimed at people new to the industry, it is often the first step before a trade qualification.
Renewing a Green card? Since 1 February 2025, CSCS asks Labourer card holders to show they are still employed as a labourer when they renew, so keep a letter from your employer or recent payslips that show your role.
Through Coteca, the CSCS card booking is £66 (£55 + VAT), including the £36 CSCS card fee. The CITB HS&E test is £47, including the £23.50 CITB fee. The one-day course is priced separately. See the Green Labourer card guide for the full package.
Everything you need for a Labourer card, booked through Coteca.
Tell us what you do on site and what paperwork you hold. We will point you to the right card, book your test and handle the application.
Book your CSCS cardCall 0208 099 4324You need a recognised health and safety qualification, usually the Level 1 Award or the CITB HSA course, and a pass in the CITB Operatives HS&E test from the last two years.
Yes. The one-day CITB Health and Safety Awareness course is accepted as an alternative to the Level 1 Award.
The Labourer card lasts five years. To renew it you need a recent HS&E test pass and, since February 2025, evidence that you still work as a labourer.
No. The Green card covers labouring only. Skilled trades need a Blue Skilled Worker card, usually through an NVQ Level 2.
Through Coteca, the card booking is £66 including the £36 CSCS fee, and the CITB HS&E test is £47. The one-day course is priced separately.
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