Get your black CSCS card
NVQ registration, assessment, and card application — all handled for you
Most learners complete their NVQ within 6–12 weeks, then receive their card within around 15 days of passing.
NVQ Level 6 → CITB HS&E test → Black CSCS card — all included
Want to start smaller?
Register for NVQ — £250
Includes your CITB Managers & Professionals Test (worth £48) and your Experienced Worker Red Card application.
- CITB Managers & Professionals Test included
- Experienced Worker Red Card application included
Our delivery partners are accredited by:
Logos represent our delivery partners' accrediting bodies — not direct accreditation of Construction Skills Professionals Ltd.
Choose the Right Option for You
Register for NVQ
£250
Includes free CITB Managers & Professionals Test (worth £48) and free Experienced Worker Red Card application
- CITB Managers & Professionals Test included
- Experienced Worker Red Card application included
CSCS Card Application Only
£59
For learners who've completed their NVQ elsewhere
- CSCS card application submission only
Full Package
Everything included, one price
- CITB test free
- Full NVQ completion
- Black CSCS card free
The CITB HS&E Test price of £48 includes CITB's own £23.50 test fee plus our booking/processing service — the same all-inclusive pricing used on our CITB Test pages. The CSCS card application price of £59 includes CSCS's own £36 card fee plus our processing service — the same all-inclusive pricing used across our Card Pathways pages. Experienced Worker Red Card eligibility requires evidence of prior industry experience in addition to NVQ registration, and the card is typically valid for a limited, non-renewable period. Eligibility is assessed by CSCS at the point of application — contact us to check you qualify before registering. Prices shown are correct as of April 2026.
Bought separately: £2,009 total. The Full Package saves you £59 (3%).
Booking for a group or need a corporate/multi-learner invoice?
How It All Connects
NVQ Level 6 or Level 7 in Site Management
We register and support you
CITB HS&E Test (Managers & Professionals)
We book it for you
Black card
Manager
Enquire — tell us about your management experience.
We confirm whether Level 6 or Level 7 fits your role.
Complete your NVQ (portfolio-based, assessed on your management work).
We book your CITB HS&E Managers & Professionals Test with our delivery partner.
Attend your test at the scheduled centre.
We handle your Black CSCS card application submission.
About the Black CSCS Card
The Black CSCS card is CSCS's highest standard tier, held by site managers, project managers, and senior construction professionals. It confirms a Level 6 or Level 7 qualification in site management — genuine, assessed competence in running a site or project, not just working on one. It's the card most large contractors expect from anyone in a management role.
What You Need (One Of)
- NVQ Level 6 in Site Management
- OR
- NVQ Level 7 in Site Management
Also Relevant at This Stage
SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) — online or classroom, plus a refresher course for renewal.
Courses Available
| Course | Format |
|---|---|
| NVQ Site Management Level 6 | Portfolio-based |
| NVQ Site Management Level 7 | Portfolio-based |
| SMSTS | Online or Classroom Based |
| SMSTS Refresher | Online or Classroom Based |
Card colour and grade issuance is subject to the relevant awarding body's final assessment — we'll confirm exactly what applies to your situation once we understand your background and experience.
Why Get This Card
Senior Recognition
CSCS's highest standard tier, confirming genuine site or project management competence.
Required for Leadership Roles
Most large contractors and developers require a Black card for site manager and project manager positions.
Career Ceiling, Reached
The top of the standard CSCS card structure — from here, career growth is about role and responsibility, not further card levels.
Renewal
Your Black card is valid for 5 years from the date of issue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Full Package guarantee my CSCS card?
No — CSCS's approval decision is theirs alone, based on you meeting their requirements, and we can't guarantee that outcome. What we do guarantee is that we'll coordinate your NVQ registration and assessment correctly, book your CITB HS&E Test with our delivery partner, and submit your CSCS card application promptly and accurately once you've passed.
Is funding available?
It depends on your circumstances and whether your employer is CITB-registered. CITB funding rules changed significantly in January 2026. We'll give you an honest, specific answer for your situation rather than a blanket promise.
What's the difference between Level 6 and Level 7?
NVQ Level 6 is for Construction Site Management — running the day-to-day operations of a site. NVQ Level 7 is for Senior Construction Manager or Project Manager roles — broader responsibility across a project or multiple sites, not just one. Both lead to the Black card; which one fits depends on your current role and level of responsibility. Speak to our team if you're not sure which applies to you.
Do I need SMSTS as well as the NVQ?
SMSTS isn't required for the Black card itself, but it's commonly held alongside it. We offer SMSTS and its refresher separately if you need it.
I have a built-environment degree, not a trade background — can I still get a Black card?
Possibly via the AQP or PQP route rather than the standard NVQ path — see our Other CSCS Cards page for details, or speak to our team to confirm which route fits your background.
Not the right card for you?
Ready to Get Your Black Card?
Free, no-obligation advice on the fastest route to your card.