Get Certified with the Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS)

The Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS) is the leading skills card scheme for the UK plant sector. Launched in 2003, CPCS helps plant operators demonstrate their qualifications, practical skills, and understanding of health and safety standards. With over 300,000 cards issued across more than 60 categories, CPCS remains the go-to certification for professionals working with construction machinery and related equipment.

📞 Book Your CPCS Card Today: 333 880 6565

Why You Need a CPCS Card

If you’re working in construction or planning to operate plant machinery in the UK, a CPCS card is essential.

  • ✅ Industry Requirement: Build UK mandates CPCS cards for access to their sites.
  • ✅ Proves Competency: Show employers you’re trained and qualified for the job.
  • ✅ Boosts Employability: More employers now require CPCS cards to ensure on-site safety and compliance.
  • ✅ Nationally Recognised: Trusted across the construction industry as the standard for plant operations.

How to Apply for a CPCS Card

Getting a CPCS card is simple with our support:

  1. Choose Your Card Type
    CPCS offers a range of cards based on your experience and role—Red Trained Operator, Blue Competent Operator, or CPCS Tester.
  2. Book Your Test
    Call us on 333 880 6565 to schedule your CPCS test at a recognised centre or apply online in minutes.
  3. Take the Required Tests
    Depending on the card type, you may need to complete the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test, CPCS Theory Test, and Practical Test.
  4. Submit Proof of Qualifications
    If applying for a Blue card, you’ll also need to present your NVQ/VQ qualification.

Red Trained Operator Card

This card is for those new to a category of plant but have passed both the CPCS Theory and Practical Tests.

To qualify, you must:

  • Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test
  • Pass the CPCS Theory Test (within 2 years of the CITB test)
  • Pass the CPCS Practical Test (within 6 months of the Theory Test)

Blue Competent Operator Card

The Blue CPCS Card demonstrates that you’re an experienced operator capable of working independently and safely on-site. It is valid for five years and can be renewed.

To qualify, you must:

  • Provide evidence of completing a relevant NVQ or VQ
  • Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test
  • Successfully complete the CPCS Theory and Practical Tests

How to Book a CPCS Renewal Test

To renew your Blue CPCS Card, you’ll need to pass the CPCS Renewal Test for each category listed on your card.

  • Each test lasts 15 minutes
  • Use our Renewal Test Tool to identify the tests you need and to prepare
  • Book by calling 333 880 6565 – we’ll handle everything from start to finish!

CPCS Tester Card

For experienced professionals aiming to become certified assessors or trainers, the CPCS Tester Card allows you to train others and carry out official CPCS assessments.

Requirements to apply include:

  • Valid First Aid Certificate
  • CITB MAP (Managers and Professionals) Test
  • CPCS Advanced Theory & Practical Tests
  • Completion of the Record of Category Experience (RoE)
  • One of the following H&S qualifications:
    • NEBOSH Construction Certificate
    • IOSH Managing Safely (within 5 years)
    • SMSTS
    • Managing and Coordinating Plant (MCP)
    • Level 5/6 H&S Construction Management Qualification

Need Help Choosing the Right CPCS Card?

Whether you’re starting out, renewing your card, or stepping into an assessor’s role, we’re here to help every step of the way.

📞 Call us now on 333 880 6565 to speak with a CPCS expert and book your test today!