Applying for CITB Test to gain your CSCS card

To apply for a CSCS card you must first of all pass the appropriate version of the CITB test. The aim of the test is to examine the participant’s knowledge across a range of topics in order to improve safety and productivity on-site. The 45-minute test consists of 50 touch-screen questions and a score of 45 or above is needed in order to pass. Five core areas of knowledge are examined:

• 1. General Safety
• 2. Health and Welfare
• 3. Legal and Management
• 4. Environment
• 5. High Risk Activities

Depending on your level of skill and expertise, there are three CITB tests which all test these five core areas:

• Operatives - ensures workers have a minimum level of health, safety and environmental awareness before going on site.
• Specialists - in addition to the 5 core areas, also includes additional questions relevant to the chosen specialist area (e.g. plumbing, tunnelling, demolition etc).
• Managers and Professionals - in addition to the 5 core areas, also includes questions referencing:
  • o construction (design and management) regulations
  • o demolition
  • o highway works.

The test now includes behavioural case studies which examine a candidate’s true understanding of health, safety and environmental issues and how to behave safely on-site. CITB continually reviews the test to ensure that it continues to help construction workers and employers get the right skills, knowledge and training in order for everyone to stay safe on-site.

If you are successful in your test, you will be entitled to your CSCS card and be able to start working on-site in next to no time!

How do I prepare for the test and book it?

We want you to pass the CITB test (also referred to as the CSCS test) first time round so that you can be awarded your CSCS card as quickly as possible. We therefore strongly recommend that prospective students invest in our specially produced CSCS revision material which includes CSCS revision books and DVDs. We also recommend scheduling time in advance to practice your exam technique by using sample test papers. Additionally, Construction Helpline offers test preparation courses in locations up and down the UK. Click here or call us on 020 7199 9800 to book!

Once you have passed your test, we will then do all the hard work for you and apply for your CSCS card on your behalf. Once this application has been approved, your CSCS card will be posted out to you the next working day with most cards arriving at their destination. Re-tests are also available if you are unsuccessful the first time.

Before booking your test, make sure that you are confident with the topics and questions. The more you practice, the more prepared and confident you will become in passing your test. When you feel that you are ready, just call us on 020 7199 9800 to book CSCS test. With CSCS test centres situated the length and breadth of the UK, you will be sure to find one that is close by - see below for an extensive list of locations.