CSCS card requirements
Check when a CSCS card or equivalent site access card is commonly requested for general site work, labouring, trades and subcontractor jobs.
Learn more →Construction Requirements Checker for UK Subcontractors
Check which cards, training and credentials you may need for site work. Choose your trade or work activity to see common requirements for CSCS, CPCS, NPORS, IPAF, First Aid, SSSTS, SMSTS, working at height and other construction site cards.
CSCSCPCSNPORSIPAFFirst AidSSSTSSMSTSWorking at Height
CPCS and NPORS plant cards
Plant operation normally needs evidence for the exact machine category, such as telehandler, dumper, roller or excavator.
Learn more →IPAF and powered access
Powered access, MEWP, scissor lift and boom lift work commonly requires IPAF or equipment-specific access training.
Learn more →Supervisor and manager cards
Site supervisors and managers may need SSSTS, SMSTS, first aid evidence and the right site access card for their responsibility level.
Learn more →Start here
What work do you do?
Search a trade or pick a common role. Then add the work activities that apply. Activities can add extra requirements, such as CPCS/NPORS for plant operation or IPAF for powered access.
Tip: choose the closest role first, then add activities. If you are not sure of the role yet, leave it as general site worker and select the work activity.
Popular roles
Selected: General site workerWhat type of work will you be doing?
Your likely requirements
For General site worker
Based on: General site access. Requirements vary by contractor, site and task, so confirm the exact list before booking training or arriving at induction.
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You will usually need
CSCSPPERight to workSite Induction
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Role-dependent or site-specific
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Save these requirements, upload your cards, and track expiry dates in one place.
Detailed checklist
Requirement details
Use this as guidance, then confirm with the employer or site manager.
CSCS Card
Most UK construction sites ask for a valid CSCS card or equivalent site access card.
Why it matters
It helps prove basic site-readiness and is commonly checked at induction.
- Most sites ask for CSCS or equivalent site access evidence.
PPE
Basic PPE such as boots, hi-vis, hard hat, gloves and eye protection is commonly expected.
Why it matters
Site rules can vary, but suitable PPE is a basic readiness requirement.
- Basic PPE is commonly expected.
- Basic PPE is normally expected on site.
Right to Work Evidence
Employers need to confirm that a worker has the right to work in the UK before starting work.
Why it matters
This is normally checked before onboarding or site start.
- Employers normally check right to work.
- Employers usually check right to work before start.
Site Induction
Most sites require an induction before a worker starts on site.
Why it matters
The induction covers site rules, hazards, emergency arrangements and local requirements.
- Site induction is normally required.
- Almost every site requires an induction.
Common checks
Construction card requirements by role
Use the checker for common UK subcontractor roles, then follow the internal links to guides, training, jobs and forum discussions. Requirements vary by contractor, site and task, so always confirm the exact list before booking training or attending induction.
Card and training guides
Read practical guides for CSCS, CPCS, IPAF, First Aid, SSSTS and other site-readiness topics.
Open guides →Jobs that mention cards
Browse early subcontractor opportunities and jobs that mention CSCS, CPCS, IPAF or other card requirements.
Search jobs →Ask the worker forum
Read public discussions about site cards, plant tickets, training, renewals, induction checks and rates.
Visit forum →FAQ
Requirements checker FAQs
What card do I need to work on a UK construction site?
Many UK construction sites ask for a CSCS card or equivalent site access card. Plant, electrical, scaffolding and supervisor roles may need extra cards such as CPCS, NPORS, ECS, CISRS, SSSTS or SMSTS.
Do all construction workers need a CSCS card?
A CSCS card is commonly requested for site access, but exact requirements vary by contractor, site and role. Some trades use equivalent or specialist cards, such as ECS for electrical work or CISRS for scaffolding.
When do I need CPCS or NPORS?
CPCS or NPORS is commonly requested when operating construction plant or machinery. The card or record should match the equipment you will operate, such as telehandler, dumper, roller or excavator.
When is IPAF required?
IPAF is commonly requested for powered access or MEWP work, such as scissor lifts or boom lifts. Requirements vary by contractor, site and task.
Can I apply for jobs if my card has expired?
Some employers may reject expired cards or ask for renewal evidence before site access. Use SubbHubb to track card expiry dates and confirm exact requirements with the contractor or site manager.
How does a digital Site Passport help with requirements?
A digital Site Passport helps workers keep CSCS cards, plant cards, training certificates and expiry dates in one place, making it easier to see what is missing before applying for work or attending induction.