What is the difference between the AQP and PQP cards?

The AQP card is based on an academic qualification — a construction-related degree, HND, HNC, CIOB certificate or approved NEBOSH qualification. The PQP card is based on competence-assessed membership of a CSCS-approved professional body.

Can I renew a PQP card?

The official CSCS PQP card page states this card cannot be renewed. If your PQP card is nearing expiry, check the current position with CSCS and confirm which route applies to you.

White CSCS Card (Academically & Professionally Qualified)

Two white cards exist for the professional side of construction. Both require the Managers & Professionals (MAP) test or the CIC Health and Safety test. One important 2026 note: the official CSCS page states the PQP card cannot be renewed.

Academically Qualified Person (AQP)

White

People who have completed certain construction-related degrees, HNDs, HNCs, CIOB Certificates and certain NEBOSH diplomas and certificates.

Validity: 5 years
Renewable: Yes
Test required: CITB MAP HS&E test (or the CIC Health and Safety test)

What you need to apply

A qualifying construction-related degree, HND, HNC, CIOB Certificate, or an approved NEBOSH diploma/certificate
Pass the CITB Managers and Professionals HS&E test or the CIC Health and Safety test

Practise the MAP mock test →

Professionally Qualified Person (PQP)

White

Competence-assessed members of CSCS-approved professional bodies.

Validity: 5 years
Renewable: No — the official CSCS page states this card cannot be renewed.
Test required: CITB MAP HS&E test (or the CIC Health and Safety test)

What you need to apply

Current competence-assessed membership of a CSCS-approved professional body
Evidence of membership: certificate for the current year, membership card, a letter or email from the body, a payment receipt, or a screenshot of your membership on the body's website
Pass the CITB MAP HS&E test or the CIC Health and Safety test

Important notes

Institute of Roofing (IoR) dissolution: PQP cards issued via the IoR route between 1 and 31 December 2025 carry a fixed expiry of 30 September 2026.

Practise the MAP mock test →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the AQP and PQP cards?: The AQP card is based on an academic qualification — a construction-related degree, HND, HNC, CIOB certificate or approved NEBOSH qualification. The PQP card is based on competence-assessed membership of a CSCS-approved professional body.
Can I renew a PQP card?: The official CSCS PQP card page states this card cannot be renewed. If your PQP card is nearing expiry, check the current position with CSCS and confirm which route applies to you.

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.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.