Choose your NVQ, click Apply, and complete the application form.
An assessor will call to confirm it’s the right route, then you can start straight away.
The Black CSCS Card is the recognised competence card for managers working in the UK construction industry. It confirms that the holder has achieved a relevant Level 6 or Level 7 construction management qualification and has the knowledge, skills and experience to manage people, processes and safety on site.
To qualify for the Black CSCS Card, candidates must complete an approved construction management NVQ and pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test for Managers and Professionals (MAP). Once both requirements are met, they can apply directly to CSCS and the card is issued for five years.
The Black CSCS Card is widely accepted across the UK. It is used by employers to verify that senior site staff have the competence to supervise teams, plan work and take responsibility for health and safety during complex construction projects.
Many contractors expect managers to hold this card as it provides clear proof of ability and competence. It helps show that you can plan work, oversee teams, make safe decisions and take responsibility for quality and site safety on complex projects.
You need either a Level 6 or Level 7 NVQ in a construction management discipline. Popular routes include Construction Site Management, Construction Contracting Operations Management and Construction Senior Management. These NVQs assess real work performance and can be completed remotely through CADUK.
Yes. To apply for a Black CSCS Card you must pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test for Managers and Professionals (MAP). The test checks that you understand key health and safety responsibilities on site.
You can take the test at any Pearson VUE centre across the UK and the pass result is valid for two years when applying for your card.
The card is valid for five years. When it expires you can renew it quickly by completing the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test for Managers and Professionals (MAP) again.
Yes. If you are out of work and need to get back on site you can apply for the Red Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager (TSM) CSCS Card.
The card confirms that:
• You are an experienced manager in construction
• You have been profiled and approved for a Level 6 or 7 NVQ
• You are registered and actively working towards the qualification
This card allows you to return to work, which then gives you access to the real project evidence you need to complete your NVQ. Once you finish the NVQ you can upgrade to the Black CSCS Card.
To qualify for the Red TSM Card you must be registered for the NVQ, have at least one year of management-level experience, and have passed the CITB Managers and Professionals (MAP) HS&E Test within the last two years.
Your NVQ is completed online through our remote assessment process. You will provide evidence of your day-to-day management activities and take part in a structured discussion with your assessor. There is no written coursework. Your assessor will guide you through each stage, help you present the right evidence and confirm your competence so you can apply for the Black CSCS Card.
Any of the NVQs listed below will provide access to the Black CSCS Card on completion. All of these qualifications are assessed online through evidence submission and a discussion-based assessment with no written work. Simply select the NVQ that best matches your current role and experience.
Achieve your NVQ remotely. Submit your evidence online with no site disruption or lost work time
No red tape or written work. Complete your NVQ fast through discussion-based assessment with industry experts.
On completion of your NVQ, you'll need tp pass the CITB 'MAP' HS&E test, then you can apply for the Black CSCS Card.
We make completing your Construction Management NVQ simple and efficient. From your first profiling session to your final discussion, our assessors guide you through a clear, structured process that fits around your work and helps you achieve your qualification quickly and confidently.
Have a short call with your assessor to confirm the NVQ matches your role, experience, and goals before getting started.
Share documents, records, photos, and videos from your workplace through our secure online portal as your assessor reviews your progress.
Join your assessor on a series of video calls to review your evidence, discuss your experience, and complete your Construction Management NVQ.
Click below to find your qualification and arrange a free telephone profiling session with one of our assessors. It’s a quick, no-obligation way to confirm the right NVQ for your experience.
Click below to find your qualification and arrange a free telephone profiling session with one of our assessors. It’s a quick, no-obligation way to confirm the right NVQ for your experience.
Click below to find your qualification and arrange a free telephone profiling session with one of our assessors. It’s a quick, no-obligation way to confirm the right NVQ for your experience.
Read our latest articles for up-to-date construction news, NVQ guidance and professional development tips for supervisors and managers.
Part of the CADUK Group of companies – supporting construction professionals with NVQs since 2011.
© 2025 CADUK – All rights reserved.
