The CSCS Black Card is the recognised card for senior managers and technical professionals in the construction industry. It provides proof of your qualifications, knowledge, and competence, and is increasingly essential for those in leadership roles on site.
At THSP we not only deliver the training you need, but also guide you through the application process, help you access CITB funding, and ensure your workforce has the right credentials in place.
The CSCS Black Card Application Process
The application route has changed. Grandfather rights and Industry Accreditation have now been removed, meaning that recognised qualifications are required to apply.
To obtain a Black Card, applicants must hold one of the following:
- A Construction Management or Technical NVQ or SVQ at Level 4, 5, 6 or 7
- An SVQ at SCQF Level 10 or 11 in a construction management or technical subject
- A completed Construction Management or Technical Approved Apprenticeship
In addition, applicants must pass the CITB Managers and Professionals Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test within the last two years.
For many, achieving these qualifications does not mean returning to college. Much of the evidence can be gathered through professional discussions, reflective accounts, knowledge questions, and witness testimonies. This makes it achievable for experienced managers and supervisors who already have the knowledge and skills.
If you currently hold a card under Industry Accreditation, tailored guidance is available to help you transition to the correct qualification. More information can be found on the CSCS website.
Funding Support Through CITB
The cost of achieving new qualifications is often a concern for employers. To ease this, CITB grants are available until March 2026 for CITB-registered businesses. These grants help cover the cost of training and assessment, allowing you to meet industry standards while managing budgets effectively.
THSP works with employers to ensure they access every available grant. By booking your training through us, you can be confident you are maximising the funding support you are entitled to.
Keeping Credentials Up to Date with My CSCS
Alongside securing the right CSCS card, managing qualifications has been simplified through the My CSCS app.
The app provides a digital record of qualifications and training, acting as a portable passport for construction professionals. While SSSTS and SMSTS cannot be used for card applications, they can be added to the app along with other CPD and training records. This creates a single verified record that can be shown instantly on site.
The app also holds a digital copy of a CSCS card while waiting for the physical version to arrive, ensuring there are no delays in proving competence.
For employers, My CSCS gives peace of mind that teams are trained, qualified, and able to demonstrate credentials quickly, contributing to safer, more efficient site operations.
Read more about how supervisors and managers can add SSSTS or SMSTS qualifications to the app on the CSCS website.
How THSP Can Help
THSP makes the process of securing qualifications and applying for CSCS cards straightforward. We provide:
- Access to the right construction management and safety training
- Guidance on the qualifications needed for specific CSCS cards
- Support in applying for funding through CITB to reduce costs
- Administration support to ensure applications are completed correctly
By working with THSP, you ensure your managers and supervisors achieve the credentials they need, while your business benefits from reduced training costs and complete compliance with industry standards.
Take the Next Step
If you or your team need to apply for a CSCS Black Card, now is the time to act. With Industry Accreditation being phased out and funding available only until 2026, delaying could cost your business both time and money.
THSP is here to help you through every stage — from booking training to securing funding and ensuring applications are successful.
Contact us today to discuss your training needs and start the process of securing the right CSCS cards for your workforce.
Call 03456 122 144
Email enquiries@thsp.co.uk
Visit www.thsp.co.uk