Why is my new Green card only valid for 2 years?

Since 1 February 2025, CSCS reduced the validity of a first-time Labourer card from five years to two. This is part of a tightening around the Labourer card so that only genuine labourers hold it. You can renew for a further five years with a declaration confirming you work in a labouring role.

Which test do I need for a Green Labourer card?

The CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test for Operatives — 50 questions in 45 minutes with a 45/50 (90%) pass mark. You also need a qualification such as the Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment.

Can I use a Green card if I am a skilled tradesperson?

No. CSCS is explicit that the Labourer card is for unskilled labouring duties only, and that skilled workers holding it will be refused site access. If you hold a construction NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or above you should apply for a Blue Skilled Worker card instead.

Green CSCS Card (Labourer)

The Green Labourer card is the most common route onto a UK construction site, and the one with the biggest 2025 rule change. It is for genuine labouring duties only — skilled workers who hold it can be refused site access.

Labourer

Green

Workers carrying out unskilled labouring duties only. Not for skilled occupations — CSCS states skilled workers holding a Labourer card will be refused site access.

Validity: 2 years on first application (since 1 February 2025); 5 years on renewal
Renewable: Yes — renew for 5 years by completing the Labourer card renewal declaration form confirming you work in a labouring role.
Test required: CITB HS&E test for Operatives

What you need to apply

Pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test for Operatives
Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment (Scotland: Level 4), OR
NOCN/CSkills Awards Construction Health and Safety unit (F/618/0738), OR
REHIS Elementary Health and Safety Certificate (Scotland), OR
A CSCS-approved alternative qualification

Important notes

When renewing the initial 2-year card, your HS&E test pass is treated as valid for 3 years.
If the declaration form shows you are not working as a labourer, the application will be queried or declined.
If your previous card expired more than a year ago you must appeal with evidence of working in a labouring role.

Practise the Operatives mock test →

Frequently asked questions

Why is my new Green card only valid for 2 years?: Since 1 February 2025, CSCS reduced the validity of a first-time Labourer card from five years to two. This is part of a tightening around the Labourer card so that only genuine labourers hold it. You can renew for a further five years with a declaration confirming you work in a labouring role.
Which test do I need for a Green Labourer card?: The CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test for Operatives — 50 questions in 45 minutes with a 45/50 (90%) pass mark. You also need a qualification such as the Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment.
Can I use a Green card if I am a skilled tradesperson?: No. CSCS is explicit that the Labourer card is for unskilled labouring duties only, and that skilled workers holding it will be refused site access. If you hold a construction NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or above you should apply for a Blue Skilled Worker card instead.

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

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.Red CSCS Cards (Temporary & Trainee)5 cards in this colour

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