What is a CPCS Blue Card?
The CPCS Blue Card shows that you are competent to operate a particular type of plant. This acts as proof of real-world operating experience. It lasts 5 years and is an upgrade to the CPCS Red Card.
Why Upgrade from CPCS Red to Blue?
The CPCS Red Card is earned through completing CPCS Training. Whilst the CPCS Red Card is sufficient for most construction sites, it is well known that employers favour operators with a CPCS Blue Card.
This is because the blue card demonstrates real-world experience. Put simply, employers prefer someone who has been driving for several years, rather than someone who has just passed their test. This allows employers to feel confident that you can work unsupervised, without risk of accident.
Overall, having a CPCS Blue Card can significantly increase work opportunities and salary expectations.
How to Get a CPCS Blue Card
1 – CPCS Red Card
Before you upgrade, you will need to hold a valid CPCS Red Card.
Is your card about to expire? Contact us to arrange a CPCS Red Card Extension.
2 – CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test
Next, you will need to complete the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test.
Completed this already? This will need to have been no more than 2 years before your NVQ.
Book the CITB Health, Safety, and Environment Test at our Wokingham Centre.
We suggest preparing for the test using the official app for Apple and Android.
3 – NVQ
Finally, you will need to complete NVQs in the categories you want to upgrade.
For most categories, you will need to complete a Level 2 NVQ.
However, this excludes Crane Lift Supervisor (Level 4 NVQ) and Appointed Person (Level 5 NVQ).
CPCS Blue Card Renewal
CPCS Blue Cards are valid for 5 years from the date of application.
Once your card expires, renew it every 5 years.
Learn more in our step-by-step guide to CPCS Blue Card Renewal.
