Two gold cards, which one is yours?
The gold colour covers two different cards, both at NVQ Level 3 but for different roles:
- Gold Skilled Worker (Advanced Craft), this page, for advanced tradespeople with a Level 3 craft qualification. Sits the CITB Operatives or Specialist test.
- Gold Supervisory, for supervisors with a Level 3 supervisory qualification. Sits the separate CITB Supervisors test, see our Supervisor mock test.
What is the Gold Skilled Worker (Advanced Craft) card?
The CSCS Gold Skilled Worker card, also known as the Advanced Craft card, recognises tradespeople who have reached an advanced level of competence in their trade, evidenced by an NVQ or SVQ at Level 3. It is a step up from the Blue Skilled Worker Card (NVQ Level 2): same skilled-worker family, but a higher craft qualification and the gold colour that goes with it. It signals to employers and principal contractors that you are a fully qualified, advanced-level tradesperson.
The card is valid for 5 years and is renewable, unlike the temporary red cards, you can keep it current as long as you hold a valid CITB Health, Safety and Environment test pass and the relevant qualifications.
Who qualifies, the three routes
CSCS recognises three eligibility routes to the Gold Skilled Worker (Advanced Craft) card. You need to meet one of them:
- Route 1, Qualification. A construction-related NVQ or SVQ at Level 3, or an SVQ at SCQF Level 6.
- Route 2, Approved apprenticeship. Completion of an approved apprenticeship, CSCS names examples such as NJCBI, BATJIC, or a standard recognised by the Institute of Apprenticeships.
- Route 3, Employer-sponsored apprenticeship that included the City & Guilds of London Institute Advanced Craft Certificate.
The test you need
You must hold a current pass in the CITB Health, Safety and Environment (HS&E) test at the level that matches your occupation, either the Operatives or the Specialist test, depending on your trade. The pass must have been achieved within the last 2 years when you apply. If you are unsure which level applies to you, the CSCS Card Finder identifies the correct test for your occupation.
Whichever level you sit, the format is the same as the rest of the scheme: 50 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes, a 90% (45/50) pass mark, and no negative marking. Our free mock tests prepare you for it directly.
Cost, renewal and how to apply
The card costs £36, the standard CSCS card fee. Because it is renewable, you keep it valid across 5-year cycles by maintaining a current HS&E test pass and your qualifications. Applications are made through CSCS Online: you provide evidence of your qualification (your NVQ/SVQ Level 3, approved apprenticeship, or City & Guilds Advanced Craft Certificate), your valid CITB HS&E test pass, and a photo meeting the CSCS requirements.
How our mock tests help you prepare
The Operatives and Specialist HS&E tests draw on the same core health-and-safety syllabus. Our practice tool covers it with a bank of over 3,000 exam-style questions and a clear explanation on every wrong answer, so you learn the reasoning rather than memorising letters. Drill topic by topic in practice mode, then sit a full timed free mock test, no signup needed, until you are clearing 90% comfortably. For the full set of routes and how the cards fit together, see our types of CSCS cards directory and CSCS card types explained.
Sample HS&E question
Before carrying out hot works such as welding or grinding near combustible materials, what must be in place?
Answer: A hot-work permit. The area should be cleared of combustible materials, a suitable fire extinguisher kept to hand, and a fire watch maintained both during the work and for a period after it finishes, because smouldering can ignite long after the tools are switched off.