What NVQ Do You Need for a Black CSCS Card? Complete Guide
The Black CSCS Card requires a Level 6 or Level 7 qualification, but several different NVQs can lead
March 10, 2026
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CITB HS&E Test Guide
Updated May 2026 • CITB Tests • Gold & Black CSCS Cards
If you are completing a construction NVQ and applying for a CSCS card, you must pass the correct CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test.
The test you need depends on your role, your NVQ level and whether you are applying for a Gold Supervisor card or a Black Manager card.
Supervisors and managers do not take the same test, and booking the wrong one can delay your CSCS application.
This guide explains which HS&E test applies to each route and how it links to your NVQ and CSCS card application.
This is an information guide. CITB test names, costs and requirements can change, so always check the latest guidance before booking.
If you are completing one of the following NVQs:
You must pass the CITB Specialist Health, Safety & Environment Test, commonly known as the Supervisors HS&E test.
Once you have achieved your NVQ and passed this test, you can apply for the Gold CSCS Card – Supervisor.
Test to book:
CITB Specialist Health, Safety & Environment Test
Apply for:
Gold CSCS Card – Supervisor
If you are completing one of the following higher-level NVQs:
You must pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test for Managers and Professionals, commonly known as the MAP test.
The Health and Safety NVQs delivered by CADUK are construction-focused. They are suitable only for professionals working within the construction industry who intend to apply for a Black CSCS Card – Manager.
If you work outside construction, these qualifications will not make you eligible for a CSCS card.
Once you have achieved your NVQ and passed the MAP test, you can apply for the Black CSCS Manager card.
Test to book:
CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test for Managers and Professionals (MAP)
Apply for:
Black CSCS Card – Manager
You can book your CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test online through the official CITB website:
The test currently costs £22.50 and can be taken at a CITB test centre or an approved Pearson VUE centre.
You will need:
After completing your NVQ and passing the correct HS&E test, you can apply for your CSCS card through the official CSCS website:
You will need:
If you are unsure which test applies to your qualification or which CSCS card you should apply for, contact us at info@caduk.co.uk or call 01952 287 366.
We will confirm exactly what you need based on your NVQ and your role in the construction industry.
Not sure which CITB test applies to your NVQ? Give us a call and we’ll point you in the right direction.
01952 287 366
Practical guides to help you understand NVQs, CSCS cards and online assessment.
The Black CSCS Card requires a Level 6 or Level 7 qualification, but several different NVQs can lead
The Black CSCS Card is the recognised competence card for construction managers. This guide explains the NVQ route,
This guide explains the main CSCS card types used in the UK construction industry, including the Green Labourer
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