New CSCS Labourer cards now last only 2 years

If you are getting your first green CSCS Labourer card, it now lasts 2 years — not 5 like before. The change has applied to every first Labourer card issued since February 2025.

When it runs out you can renew it for 5 years, as long as you can show you work in a labouring role — for example a letter from your employer or the main contractor.

Good news on the test: since February 2025 the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Operatives test is valid for 3 years, so the test you sat for your first green card is normally still in date when you renew. Only if it has run out do you need to book it again — £23.50, only on the official citb.co.uk site.

Why it matters: sites scan cards digitally now, so an expired card gets caught at the gate, and that can mean a lost day's pay — or a lost start.

Our advice: put the expiry date in your phone with a reminder 6 months before — that is how early you are allowed to renew. Every card and how long it lasts: graftum.com/cscs-card-types. If you are in Graftum Pocket, we track your card expiry and remind you in time, free.