CPCS

CPCS and NPORS are the two main card schemes for plant operators in the UK. Both are recognised on construction sites, and both require operators to prove their skills through training, testing and, in many cases, an NVQ. The main difference is that CPCS is often preferred on larger, more formal sites, while NPORS is known for being more flexible and is accepted across a wide range of industries. The right choice depends on your job, your site, and your long-term goals.

Read more about CPCS vs NPORS here.

1. Pass the CPCS theory and practical tests for the machine you want to operate

2. Pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) test

3. Apply for the Red Trained Operator Card — this gets you on site

4. Build up experience on site using the Red Card (recommended 6+ months)

5. Complete the NVQ for that category of plant to prove your competence

6. Upgrade to the Blue Competent Operator Card

Once you’ve got your NVQ certificate, you can apply for the Blue Card yourself through the CPCS website. We’ll guide you through the NVQ stage and make sure you’ve got everything you need for your application.

The NVQ is a way to prove you're competent on the machine, not just trained. There's no written exam or classroom time. Instead, an assessor works with you while you're on site doing your normal job.

You’ll be asked to show how you operate the machine safely and correctly, answer a few questions, and provide some evidence like photos, videos, or job paperwork. It’s all based on the work you're already doing. Once it's signed off, you’ll get your NVQ certificate, and that’s what lets you apply for the Blue Card.

Yes. At CADUK we deliver the whole NVQ process online, which makes it quicker, easier, and more flexible for you. There's no need for site visits or time off work.

You’ll send us photos and videos of you operating the machine, along with a bit of site paperwork. We’ll also get a witness statement from someone on site, like your supervisor. After that, we’ll have a friendly Zoom call where you talk us through what you do and how you stay safe on the job.

It’s a straightforward way to get your NVQ done, without disrupting your work.

Yes. The Blue “Competent Operator” card is an upgrade, not a starting point. To move up you must already hold (or have held) the matching Red “Trained Operator” card for the category.

As long as that Red card is still in date, or within 12 months of its expiry (24 months if you never took the one-year extension), you can upgrade once you:

• pass the relevant CITB HS&E test within the last two years, and

• complete the appropriate NVQ for the category.

When those two boxes are ticked, submit the upgrade application and CPCS will issue your five-year Blue card

The CPCS Red 'Trained Operator' Card is your temporary permit issued after passing the Health, Safety & Environment test and the CPCS technical (theory + practical) tests. It remains valid for 2 years from the date of issue, during which you must register for and complete your NVQ to upgrade to a Blue Competent Operator Card.

Usually, yes. A Red CPCS “Trained Operator” card is recognised across UK construction sites because it sits within the CPCS scheme, which most major contractors accept and in many cases insist on. 

Holding the Red card shows you have passed the CPCS theory and practical tests and the CITB HS&E test, so agencies and employers know you have the core skills to start on site.

New Red-card holders are typically put under the supervision of an experienced operator while they build real site hours, then move on to the NVQ and Blue card.

That said, no card can guarantee a job. Some clients or higher-risk projects prefer (or even require) a Blue “Competent Operator” card because it proves both experience and the NVQ qualification, allowing the holder to work unsupervised.

Treat the Red card as your entry pass: it will open most doors, but progressing to Blue will make you eligible for a wider range of roles and often better rates.

Yes. You can apply for a one-off, 12-month extension if you register for your NVQ within 12 months of your Red Card’s expiry. To do this:

1. Email proof of NVQ registration (the official registration document from the awarding organisation) to cpcs@nocn.org.uk. We'll send this you by email once you start your NVQ with us. CPCS will not accept a payment receipt or other proof, only the formal registration document.

2. Call the CPCS Helpline on 0300 999 1177 (Option 1 → Option 1 → Option 1) to confirm your details and pay the £28 extension fee.

3. Once processed, CPCS will issue a new Red Card valid for 12 months from the date of application, giving you time to complete your NVQ.

Note: If your Red Card expired more than 12 months ago, you’re not eligible for an extension. You’ll need to retake both the theory and practical CPCS tests before reapplying for a Red Card.

Yes. Whether you’re applying for your Red (Trained Operator) or Blue (Competent Operator) CPCS card, you must show proof of passing the CITB Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) test within the last two years before your application can be processed.

The CITB HS&E test is a 45-minute, computer-based multiple-choice assessment delivered at approved Test Centres. It verifies that everyone working on UK construction sites has up-to-date knowledge of hazard awareness, safe systems of work, welfare, fire prevention and environmental protection.

Plant Operators & Slinger/Signallers need to book the Operatives test (often combined online as “Operatives & Specialists”).

Crane Supervisors & Appointed Persons need to book the Specialists test (sometimes shown as “Specialist Supervisory” or “Specified Supervisors” at booking).

Book your CITB HS&E test here.

Your Blue Competent Operator Card remains valid for five years from the date of issue (or last renewal). You can apply to renew from three months before your card’s expiry.

To renew, follow these steps:

1. Confirm your CITB HS&E test is in date (must be within the last two years).

2. Show ongoing practical competence through one of the following:

   • A Digital Logbook with at least 300 hours of on-site work signed off by your employer.

   • An On-Site Assessment with a CPCS-approved centre.

   • A CPCS Practical Test at a test centre.

   • A relevant NVQ/SVQ certificate obtained in the last two years

3. Submit your renewal application (online through the NOCN Hub or by post) and pay the renewal fee.

Once approved, you’ll receive a new Blue Card valid for another five years .

Renewal fee: At the time of writing (June 2025), the cost to complete the online CPCS Renewal CPD (including the smart card fee) is £28.00.