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.

An NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) is a work-based qualification that proves you’re competent in your job role — not just trained. It’s based entirely on the work you do day-to-day, in your normal working environment.

There are no written exams or classroom lessons. Instead, your assessor must observe your performance on a live site, either:

• In person, by visiting you at work, or

• Remotely, by reviewing detailed video evidence that shows you carrying out your real job (not simulated or staged).

These observations must clearly show that:

• You personally carried out the activity in a real working environment

• You worked safely, competently and followed correct procedures

• The assessor can verify your identity and the authenticity of the work

After the observation, your assessor completes a formal Observation Report, confirming what was seen and how it meets the national standards. You’ll also provide other evidence such as photos, job records, and a Witness Testimony from your supervisor, along with a short discussion to confirm your knowledge and understanding.

Once the assessor is satisfied that you’ve demonstrated competence across all parts of the qualification, your NVQ is signed off and certified by the awarding body. This certificate is what allows you to apply for your CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card (or the relevant industry card for your role).

In most cases, yes – but the method of assessment will be decided by your assessor following a short profiling call.

Before you start your NVQ, you’ll have a short (free) profiling call with your assessor. During this call, the assessor will ask questions about your role, your workplace, and the availability of the plant or equipment you operate. Based on that discussion, the assessor will confirm whether your qualification can be assessed remotely or whether an on-site visit will be required.

Most candidates complete their NVQ remotely, by providing detailed video evidence that clearly shows them carrying out their normal work on site. These videos must:

• Show you personally operating or managing the plant in a real working environment (not simulated or staged)

• Be clear enough for the assessor to verify your identity and competence

• Demonstrate safe and correct working practices in line with site procedures

After reviewing your footage, your assessor will complete a formal Observation Report to confirm what was seen and how it meets the required standard. You’ll also take part in a short professional discussion and provide supporting evidence such as photos, documents or a witness testimony from your supervisor.

In some cases, a site-based assessment may be more appropriate – for example, where a workplace does not permit filming. If an on-site assessment is required, additional travel and assessment costs may apply depending on location.

This process provides a secure, flexible and transparent way to achieve your NVQ and apply for your CPCS Blue Competent Operator Card.

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.