8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)
8 AM to 5 PM (Mon to Fri)
What the green card lets you do, how long it lasts, how renewal works and where it leads next.
Get free advice on your card, test or course
We only use your details to reply to your enquiry. See our Privacy Policy.
The CSCS Green Labourer Card is the entry card for general site work. It shows a site manager you understand basic health and safety and have passed the CITB Operatives test.
It does not cover skilled trade work. If you lay bricks, fit plasterboard or operate plant, you need a different card.
Green card holders carry out labouring tasks: moving materials, keeping work areas clear, loading skips, helping trades and basic groundwork under supervision.
You can work on most UK sites that ask for CSCS, but you cannot sign off skilled work or operate plant without the right plant card. If you want to move up, an NVQ Level 2 in a trade leads to the Blue Skilled Worker card.
Since February 2025 the first green card lasts 2 years rather than 5. When it runs out, you can renew for 5 years if you show CSCS you are still employed in a labouring role.
The CITB test used for your first card counts for 3 years, so most people do not need to resit it for that first renewal. Check the date on your test pass before you apply.
Ready to move up? Pick a trade and complete the NVQ, then apply for the blue card. Read how to move from labourer to skilled worker.
The green card needs the Operatives test. It has 50 multiple-choice questions on screen and you get 45 minutes, so you have less than a minute per question. The pass mark is 90%, so revise properly rather than relying on site common sense.
Try the free Operatives mock test, then book your Operatives test at a test centre near you.
Book the one-day Level 1 Award and the Operatives test as close together as you can, then apply straight after.
Your Level 1 Award stays valid for life. Revise with mock questions and rebook the test only.
Renew for 5 years with evidence you are employed in a labouring role. Your original test usually still counts for that first renewal.
Everything you need for the green card route.
We book the one-day course and the CITB test, then send your card application, so you can start on site sooner.
Book your green cardCall 0208 099 4324The first card lasts 2 years. You can then renew for 5 years with evidence that you still work as a labourer.
Usually not for the first renewal, because the test for your first card counts for 3 years. After that you need a pass from the last 2 years.
No. The green card covers labouring only. Skilled work needs a blue or gold card for your occupation.
Coteca books it for £66, which is £55 + VAT and includes the £36 CSCS fee.
Yes. Many people call the Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment the CSCS 1 Day Course. It is valid for life.
Yes. It is available online or in a classroom and takes one day.
You must be at least 16 to take the Level 1 Award.
Green CSCS Card Requirements ExplainedGreen CSCS card requirements in plain English.
What Is a Construction Labourer Allowed to Do?What a construction labourer is allowed to do on site with a green CSCS card, what need....
How to Move From Labourer to Skilled Construction WorkerHow to move from labourer to skilled construction worker.We will give you best suited CSCS product. Apply Here
By filling this form, I agree to the terms and conditions