CSCS Partnership Cards Explained: GQA vs CITB, Card Types.
What’s the Difference & Which CSCS Partnership Card Do You Need?
f you’re working in construction, fenestration, glazing, or a specialist trade, you’re probably wondering:
“Do I need a GQA CSCS Card or a CITB CSCS Card?”
“What are CSCS Partnership Cards and which one is right for me?”
You’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll explain:
- The difference between GQA and CITB CSCS cards
- What CSCS Partnership Cards are (with real-world examples)
- Which card is right for YOUR trade
What Is a CSCS Card?
A CSCS Card proves you’re trained and qualified to work safely on construction sites across the UK. It’s your passport to site access.
But here’s the thing…
CSCS isn’t a one-size-fits-all card. Instead, it works with approved partners, such as GQA, ECS, JIB, SKILLcard, and others—each offering role-specific cards tailored to different industries.
What Are CSCS Partnership Cards?
CSCS Partnership Cards are cards issued by approved industry bodies like GQA, ECS, or JIB, aligned with CSCS standards. They:
- Carry the CSCS logo
- Require a valid Health, Safety & Environment Test
- Are fully recognised on UK sites
They’re just more tailored to your specific trade or qualification.
What Is the GQA CSCS Card?
Best for:
- GQA Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Construction Operations and Civil Engineering – Highways Maintenance
Aimed at operatives working in highways maintenance, covering practical skills and knowledge. - GQA Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Site Inspection – Construction
For professionals involved in inspecting construction sites, ensuring compliance with regulations and standards. - GQA Level 6 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Management
Targeted at site managers overseeing construction projects, focusing on leadership and management skills. - GQA Level 7 NVQ Diploma in Construction Senior Management
Designed for senior managers in the construction industry, emphasizing strategic management and decision-making.
Glazing qualification both construction and automotive related as well as many more trade related qualifications please see GQA for a full list of available qualifications.
Issued by:
GQA Qualifications – an Ofqual-regulated awarding body for construction and related trades.
Qualification required:
A GQA-aligned NVQ/SVQ in your trade
What Is the CITB CSCS Card?
Best for:
- General construction trades (e.g. bricklayers, groundworkers, carpenters, labourers
Issued by:
CSCS Ltd, administered by CITB
Qualification required:
A CITB-approved NVQ/SVQ
GQA vs CITB CSCS Card: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | GQA CSCS Card | CITB CSCS Card |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Glazing, fenestration, curtain walling | General construction trades |
| Issuing Body | GQA Qualifications | CSCS Ltd (via CITB) |
| Qualifications | GQA-aligned NVQs/SVQs | CITB-aligned NVQs/SVQs |
| Health & Safety Test | CITB HSE Test | CITB HSE Test |
| CSCS Logo? | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Card Colours | Green (Labourer), Blue (Skilled) | Green, Blue, Gold, Black, etc. |
| Site Recognition | ✅ Fully recognised | ✅ Fully recognised |
| Partner Status | Official CSCS Partner | Official CSCS Body |
What Are Other CSCS Partnership Cards?
| Partner Card | Best For |
|---|---|
| ECS Card (JIB) | Electricians |
| SKILLcard | HVAC, refrigeration, building services |
| CPCS | Plant operators (crane, excavator) |
| NPORS | Flexible plant/machinery certification |
| LISS/CSCS | Landscaping, arboriculture |
| CISRS | Scaffolders and access workers |
All of these carry the CSCS logo and are site-legal as long as the right Health & Safety test is passed.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
GQA CSCS Card Application:
- Complete a GQA NVQ/SVQ
- Pass the Health, Safety & Environment Test
- Apply via your training provider
CITB CSCS Card Application:
- Complete a construction NVQ/SVQ
- Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test
- Apply via the official CSCS website
Need Help Getting Your Card?
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