Where to Obtain CPCS Card From UK

If you work as a plant operator or intend to pursue this role as a career, you will need a CPCS card in order to prove your competence. While it is not currently a legal requirement for construction sites to insist on plant workers having a CPCS card, you will find that most employers will require a plant worker to have one to ensure both the safety and effectiveness of their site. Sites that are members of Build UK will require you to hold a CPCS card if your role requires you to operate machinery.

The CPCS card scheme also aims to ensure that plant workers maintain their skills and knowledge over time, as well as refresh their health and safety awareness by providing periodic training courses for plant workers. This intends to keep plant workers up to date with any developments in the industry and remain competent and safe workers.

What is a CPCS Card?

CPCS stands for the Construction Plant Competence Scheme. It is run by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) which also runs the CSCS card scheme. It was set up in 2003 in order to ensure that plant workers are fully competent in their role, meet required health and safety standards and ensure the standardisation of practices undertaken by plant workers across the UK.

The CPCS ensure the scheme is up-to-date and fit for purpose by working with feedback from within the industry, as well as ensuring the scheme adheres to any advances in technology or occupational health factors that influence individuals who work with machinery and equipment in a construction setting.

Importance of a CPCS Card for Construction Workers

A CPCS card is often mandatory for working on construction sites in the UK. Employers and contractors prefer hiring certified workers, as it reduces workplace risks and enhances project efficiency.

Types of CPCS cards:

CPCS cards fall into one of three categories, which are the Tester Card, Trained Operator Card and the Competent Operator Card. 

 

1. Black or Grey Tester Card

To gain a CPCS Tester Card you must show your working knowledge of the plant you are operating, and demonstrate how you use it safely in various environments. You’ll also need to prove your health and safety knowledge, first aid skills and plant operating ability. 

 

The Tester Card comes in two variations – the grey card for provisional use (valid for 2 years) and the black card for full Tester qualification (valid for 5 years).  

 

2. Red Trained Operator Card

A CPCS Trained Operator Card is black in colour, and includes a theory test as well as a practical technical test, which must be taken at an officially accredited CPCS test centre. The red card level needs the HS&E Test to be passed within two years of the practical test. 

 

 

3. Blue Competent Operator Card

The CPCS Competent Operator card is for higher level operators, who can demonstrate their in-depth knowledge, experience and ability using a plant vehicle whilst working without supervision. You’ll also usually need a minimum Level 2 NVQ in your chosen machinery. The practical and theoretical test is also carried out at an accredited test centre. This level of operator may supervise Red Card holders on site.

 

 

Previous Competent Operator cards, awarded solely through industry accreditation (IA), are being phased out, and won’t be able to be renewed beyond December 2024. This ensures that all cards are awarded fairly and with the correct professional, independent testing. 

 

How to obtain a CPCS Certification

To gain a CPCS qualification, you’ll have to go through each stage to complete the process and be able to apply for your CPCS card:

 

1. Firstly, decide which card your experience level would best fit – a Tester, Trained Operator or Competent Operator

2. Consider any additional training you may need to gain your CPCS licence (such as an NVQ)

3. Complete the online CITB HS&E Test

4. Within 2 years of passing the HS&E test, apply to take your CPCS Theory Test

5. Take the CPCS Practical Test at an accredited test centre

6. Submit your documentation and await your card

7. It’s recommended to continue your training to later upgrade your card once you’ve gained more skills and experience (if you hold a provisional Tester or Trained Operator card)

8. You can renew your card online before it is due for expiry (except IA blue cards, where you’ll need to complete the appropriate level theory and practical tests)