Blog · Updated September 2026

Applying for a CSCS card without experience in a trade

You don't need years of experience in a trade to work on a construction site, but you do need the right card. For most people starting out, that's the Green Labourer card.

What you need for a Green card

1. The Level 1 Award in Health and Safety in a Construction Environment. This is a short qualification covering the basics of staying safe on site.
2. The CITB Operatives HS&E test. This is a multiple-choice test you book at a test centre.
3. Apply to CSCS once you have both.

Your next step: a Blue card

The Green card lets you get on site. It's also where you start gaining the experience that leads to a trade qualification. Once you're working in a trade, such as drylining, plastering or tiling, a Level 2 NVQ can take you to a Blue Skilled Worker card. That usually means better jobs and better pay.

Get in touch and we'll help you plan the route from your first day on site.