Recent CSCS Green Card Changes

As of the 1st February 2025, CSCS have made some recent updates to the CSCS Green Card scheme and have introduced some important changes, particularly regarding the validity and renewal process. While the standard validity for new CSCS Green Cards is now two years, there’s a specific provision for those holding existing five-year cards. This blog post aims to clarify these changes and what they mean for you.

The Two-Year Standard:

For all new applicants, CSCS Green Cards will now be issued with a two-year validity period. This reinforces the CSCS’s commitment to ensuring workers’ health and safety knowledge remains current.

Five-Year Card Holders and providing evidence:

If you currently hold a five-year CSCS Green Card, you will not automatically transition to a two-year card upon expiry. You have the possibility of renewing for another five years. However, this is contingent on providing evidence you are employed in a labouring role, confirming your employment within the construction industry.

Why do I need to provide evidence?

You need to provide evidence of your current employment in a labouring capacity to renew your CSCS Green Card for five years. This evidence comes in the form of a signed letter from your employer, on company-headed paper, or if you’re self-employed, a signed letter from a main contractor. This requirement is in place to ensure that the five-year renewal option is primarily available to those actively working in the construction sector. It helps maintain the integrity of the scheme and ensures that individuals renewing their cards for five years are genuinely engaged in construction activities, thus keeping their skills and knowledge relevant to the current industry standards. Submitting the completed form along with this employment confirmation letter is necessary to complete the renewal process.

Who Does This Affect?

• New Applicants: Will receive a two-year card.

• Existing Five-Year Card Holders (Currently Employed): Can renew for another five years with an employer letter.

What You Need to Do:

• If you are a new applicant: To receive your two-year Green Card, you will need to complete the Safe2Site Online CSCS Green Card Course, covering the Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment, and pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test.
• If you have a five-year card nearing expiry and are currently employed: Contact your employer well in advance to obtain the necessary employment verification letter. Ensure the letter meets the CSCS requirements.

Staying Up-to-Date:

Always refer to the official CSCS website for the most current and detailed information. The specifics of the renewal process and required documentation can change, so it’s essential to stay informed.

In Conclusion:

The changes to the CSCS Green Card scheme are intended to enhance safety and competence within the construction industry. Understanding the validity and renewal requirements, particularly the employer letter provision for five-year card holders, is crucial for all construction labourers. By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure your qualifications remain valid and you can continue working safely and legally on UK construction sites.

You can find out the CSCS Green Card process with our full CSCS Green Card Guide or how to renew your CSCS Green Card Guide.