How to apply for CPCS card

CPCS is a shortened form for the Construction Plant Competence Scheme. CPCS card is required for contractors and employees to work in the construction industry. The presence of this card indicates that the person meets the benchmark requirements for performing a particular task in the construction. CPCS card is an identification card required for an individual, having the knowledge and proficient skills to work as a plant operator in the field of construction.

Types of CPCS Card:

Within the CPCS scheme, there are three cards available- the trained operator card (Red Card), the Competent Operator Card (Blue Card) and the tester card.

Ways to Apply For CPCS Card

Before applying for a CPCS card, one should take the experts to advice about the CPCS course that is best suitable for you. You have to qualify the appropriate test at the end of the course.

Things to keep handy at the time of application:

• Name
• Date of birth
• Permanent home address
• Email address
• Phone numbers including mobile
• Occupation
• National insurance number
• Plant category and subcategory, you wish to take the test in
• Current job
• Past experience
• Qualifications
• CITB number

How to get Red Trained Operator card:

To get a red card, you have to follow the given steps:

1. Perform the required necessary training to match the standard required to enable you to qualify for the CPCS technical test. This training is delivered by the trainer.
2. Qualify the relevant CITB Health, safety and environment test.
3. Get the CPCS theory test within the two years of CITB Health, safety and environment test.
4. Within the six months of the theory test and 2 months of the CITB Health, safety and environment test, qualify the CPCS practical test.
5. Both of these should be delivered by the approved CPCS test centre.
6. On the basis of the practical test, the CPCS test will request the CPCS trained operator card on your behalf.

If you do not qualify the theory or practical test, then you must contact the CPCS test centre.

How to get a blue card?

To get a Competent Operator Blue CPCS Card, one must abide by the following steps:

1. Provide the proof of achievement of SVQ or NVQ as per the category you wish to apply at the CPCS test centre.
2. Qualify the relevant CITB Health, safety, and environment test.
3. Get the CPCS theory test qualified within the two years of CITB Health, safety and environment test.
4. Within 6 months of the theory test and two months of the CITB, safety, and environment test achieve the CPCS practical test.
5. Both of these tests should be accredited by the CPCS test.

After qualifying the practical test, the CPCS test centre will request to issue the competent operator card on your behalf. You will get a logbook by CPCS to record lifelong learning and evidence towards the renewal of a competent operator card. This document is going to be very crucial for you.