Which test do I need for a Gold CSCS card?

It depends which gold card you are applying for. The Gold Skilled Worker (Advanced Craft) card needs the standard CITB HS&E test for Operatives. The Supervisory card needs the Specialist HS&E test with the Supervisory (SUP) topic — a different booking.

What is the difference between the two gold cards?

The Gold Skilled Worker card recognises advanced craft skill (NVQ/SVQ Level 3). The Supervisory card recognises a supervisory or technical role and requires a supervisory/technical NVQ at Level 3 or 4.

Gold CSCS Card (Advanced Craft & Supervisory)

Two different CSCS cards are gold, and they need different tests. The Gold Skilled Worker (Advanced Craft) card is for NVQ/SVQ Level 3 tradespeople and needs the Operatives test. The Supervisory card is for supervisors and needs the Specialist Supervisory test — a point people frequently get wrong when booking.

Gold Skilled Worker (Advanced Craft)

Gold

Skilled workers who have achieved a construction-related NVQ/SVQ Level 3 (SVQ at SCQF Level 6), or an approved apprenticeship including a City & Guilds Advanced Craft Certificate.

Validity: 5 years
Renewable: Yes
Test required: CITB HS&E test for Operatives

What you need to apply

Construction-related NVQ/SVQ Level 3 (SVQ at SCQF Level 6), OR an approved apprenticeship including a City & Guilds Advanced Craft Certificate
Pass the CITB HS&E test

Practise the Operatives mock test →

Supervisory

Gold

Supervisors and workers in technical occupations holding an approved construction supervisory or technical qualification.

Validity: 5 years
Renewable: Yes
Test required: CITB HS&E Specialist test — Supervisory (SUP)

What you need to apply

Construction-related Supervisory/Technical NVQ or SVQ at Level 3 or 4
Pass the CITB Specialist Supervisory HS&E test

Important notes

City & Guilds qualifications issued from 1 April 2013 onwards must be evidenced with the City & Guilds e-certificate.
Industry Accreditation cards cannot be renewed via IA since 31 December 2024.

Practise the Supervisory specialist mock test →

Frequently asked questions

Which test do I need for a Gold CSCS card?: It depends which gold card you are applying for. The Gold Skilled Worker (Advanced Craft) card needs the standard CITB HS&E test for Operatives. The Supervisory card needs the Specialist HS&E test with the Supervisory (SUP) topic — a different booking.
What is the difference between the two gold cards?: The Gold Skilled Worker card recognises advanced craft skill (NVQ/SVQ Level 3). The Supervisory card recognises a supervisory or technical role and requires a supervisory/technical NVQ at Level 3 or 4.

Next steps

Once you have passed the right test, see how to apply for and renew your CSCS card. Not sure this is the right card? Compare all 13 card types or use the official CSCS Card Finder.

Card details verified against cscs.uk.com, July 2026. Always confirm current requirements with CSCS before applying.

Cards people confuse with this one

Black CSCS Card (Manager)Managers and those in technical occupations holding an approved construction management or technical qualification.Blue CSCS Card (Skilled Worker)Workers who have achieved a construction-related NVQ/SVQ Level 2 (SVQ at SCQF Level 5), or completed an employer-sponsored or CSCS-recognised apprenticeship, including a City & Guilds Craft Certificate.

Still unsure? Work out whether you need a CSCS card at all, then check the 2025 and 2026 card changes before you apply.