Find out more & book online at 3btraining.com
If you’re working in construction management or planning to move into a senior role, you’ve likely come across the Black CSCS Card. It’s a widely recognised symbol of site management competency, but what do you actually need to get one?
Many people assume that completing the SMSTS course is enough to qualify. While SMSTS is a valuable training course for site managers, it’s not the full story when it comes to getting your Black CSCS Card.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly what the Black CSCS Card is, what it takes to earn one, and where SMSTS and NVQs fit into the process. Whether you’re aiming for your first management position or looking to progress to senior leadership, we’ll walk you through the steps.
The Black CSCS Card is designed for senior-level professionals in the construction industry. It confirms that you’ve demonstrated proven competence in managing construction sites safely and effectively.
Often referred to as the “Manager Card” or “black card CSCS,” this certification is recognised across the industry. It’s aimed at individuals in roles such as Site Manager, Project Manager or Construction Director, where leadership, decision-making and risk management are part of daily responsibilities.
Holding a Black CSCS Card shows employers, clients and colleagues that you meet a high standard of site management and health and safety awareness.
To get a Black CSCS Card, you need to meet two key requirements:
First, you must complete a relevant NVQ or SVQ at Level 6 or Level 7 in a construction management discipline. This proves you have the practical skills and knowledge to lead on-site effectively.
Second, you need to pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test for Managers and Professionals. This test checks your understanding of construction safety legislation, managerial responsibilities, and best practices.
Together, these requirements ensure that all black card CSCS holders meet the recognised national standard for site management and health and safety.
In short, no. Completing the SMSTS course alone doesn’t qualify you for a Black CSCS Card. While the SMSTS is highly valuable, it doesn’t meet the formal criteria for the card.
However, if you already hold your SMSTS or SSSTS certificate, that’s a great starting point.
You can often use it as supporting evidence during your NVQ assessment. So although the SMSTS card can’t get you the black card directly, it still plays a useful role on your path toward qualification.
If you’re wanting to know how to get a Black CSCS Card, here’s the route we recommend:
Start by taking the SMSTS course. While this course alone won’t qualify you for the Black Card, it’s an excellent way to develop your knowledge of site safety and management responsibilities.
To enrol on a Level 6 or 7 NVQ, you’ll need around two years of experience in a relevant management role. This real-world experience is key to meeting the assessment criteria.
You must complete a nationally recognised NVQ at Level 6 or Level 7 in a construction management discipline. These qualifications confirm your competency and are essential for the Black Card.
You can explore the following NVQ options with us:
This multiple-choice test checks your knowledge of site legislation, responsibilities, and safe working practices. You’ll need to pass this to apply for your Black CSCS Card.
We offer three recognised CSCS black card courses, depending on your current role and future goals:
Each of these NVQs leads to a recognised CSCS Black Card and is structured around your current work, with no need for time off-site.
The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is a five-day course for site managers, supervisors, and anyone responsible for overseeing health and safety on construction sites.
At 3B Training, we offer the SMSTS course online, in the classroom and in-house with flexible delivery to suit busy schedules.
This course is often a requirement for site managers working for main contractors or on larger projects. It helps you understand your responsibilities and lead with safety at the core of your site operations.
The SMSTS course focuses on health and safety law, risk management, and environmental responsibilities. It covers topics like:
Completing the course earns you an SMSTS card (certificate) that’s valid for five years. While this certificate doesn’t affect your SMSTS card colour, it’s widely recognised across the industry.
There’s sometimes a bit of confusion around what you need to obtain a Black CSCS Card. To clear it up:
SMSTS is a five-day training course that gives you the knowledge to manage site safety and understand key legal responsibilities. You complete it through a mix of group work, discussions and a short multiple-choice exam.
It’s a strong foundation for any manager, but it doesn’t assess your ability to manage a site in real life. Therefore, the SMSTS course alone is not enough to obtain your card.
NVQs at Level 6 or 7 are competency-based qualifications. They assess your learning and performance on the job over time.
To earn the qualification, you need to show that you consistently manage people, processes and safety to a professional standard. This, along with the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test are the correct steps for gaining your Black CSCS Card.
No. The SMSTS course alone does not qualify you for a Black CSCS Card. You need to complete an NVQ at Level 6 or 7 and pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment Test for Managers and Professionals.
You’ll need an NVQ Level 6 or Level 7 in a relevant construction management discipline. This proves your competence in managing projects and people to a nationally recognised standard.
There is no SMSTS card colour. Completing the SMSTS course provides you with a certificate, not a CSCS card. While it’s valuable training for managers, it isn’t linked to a specific CSCS qualification.
Yes. The SMSTS course is widely recognised by employers and is often a requirement for site management roles. It builds your knowledge of health and safety legislation, risk management, and your responsibilities as a manager.
Most learners complete their NVQ in 4 to 6 months, depending on experience and availability. Once your NVQ is complete, you’ll need to pass the CSCS test and apply for your Black Card.
Take the first step with an SMSTS course from 3B Training. We offer flexible delivery options including:
Explore SMSTS course options here
Ready to earn your Black CSCS Card? Enrol in one of our Level 6 or Level 7 NVQs in construction management. You complete all assessments around your work schedule with no exams, with support every step of the way.
Need help deciding which NVQ is right for you? Get in touch with our team and we’ll guide you towards the right qualification for your career goals.
CITB offers several funding options that can significantly offset your training expenses — helping you upskill your teams without breaking the bank.
The Building Safety Act was introduced in response to Grenfell Tower to strengthen regulatory oversight in UK construction industry.
Are you looking to apply for a CSCS Card but aren’t sure what type of car you need? Take a look at the different types of CSCS card available, who they are for and how to get them.
