What Is the Red TSM CSCS Card?

The Red Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager (TSM) card is a temporary CSCS card for individuals who already have substantial on-site experience but have not yet achieved the NVQ or SVQ required for their permanent skilled card.

It is designed for experienced professionals, not trainees. Applicants must already be competent in their role and simply need to complete the appropriate construction-related qualification.

Once you are officially registered on the correct NVQ, you can apply for the Red TSM card and continue working while you complete your qualification.

Who the Red TSM Card Is For

The Red Experienced TSM card is typically suitable for:

• Supervisors working towards an NVQ at Level 3 or Level 4 (leading to the Gold Supervisor CSCS Card)
• Managers or Technical Staff working towards an NVQ at Level 6 or Level 7 (leading to the Black Manager CSCS Card)

Common roles include:

• Construction Site Supervisors
• Site Managers and Project Managers
• Construction Contracting Operations Managers
• Health and Safety Managers working within construction environments

Applicants would normally need at least one year of relevant on-site experience within the last three years.

Requirements for the Red TSM CSCS Card

To apply for this card, you must:

1. Be registered on a relevant construction-related NVQ or SVQ at Level 3 or above. Completion is not required at this stage, but official registration is.

2. Have passed the appropriate CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test within the last two years:

   • Supervisors must complete the Supervisors HS&E Test
   • Managers must complete the Managers and Professionals (MAP) HS&E Test

The Red TSM card is valid for three years and cannot be renewed. During this time, you are expected to complete your NVQ and then apply for your full Gold or Black CSCS card.

How to Get Started with CADUK

1. Find the right NVQ – Choose the qualification that matches your current role and level of responsibility.
2. Complete the free profiling form – This helps confirm the correct NVQ for your experience.
3. Assessor review – An experienced construction assessor will contact you to discuss your role and confirm eligibility.
4. Receive enrolment confirmation – Once registered, you can use your confirmation to apply for the Red TSM card via the official CSCS website.

Why the Red TSM Card Is So Useful

• Maintain site access while completing your NVQ
• Avoid downtime caused by missing CSCS credentials
• Demonstrate commitment to professional qualification
• Progress efficiently to your full Gold or Black CSCS card

Why Choose CADUK for Your NVQ

• 100% remote assessment using our secure CADUK ePortfolio
• One-to-one support from experienced construction professionals
• No classroom attendance and no written exams
• Evidence based on real workplace activity
• Flexible completion, often within a few months for experienced candidates

Take the Next Step

If you are an experienced manager, supervisor or technical specialist who needs to access site, the Red TSM CSCS card can help you remain compliant while working towards your qualification.

Browse our NVQs, click Apply and complete the free profiling form. One of our assessors will contact you to confirm the correct route for your role.