Book Your CITB Test For CSCS Black Card
The CSCS Black Card represents the highest level of CSCS certification. To qualify for this card, you must pass the CITB Managers and Professionals (MAP) Test, which is specifically designed for senior-level roles in construction management.
How Can I Get a CSCS Black Card?
The CSCS Black Card is available to individuals who have successfully completed a Construction Management NVQ at Level 5, 6, or 7, or hold an equivalent qualification.
- NVQ Level 5: Equivalent to a Foundation Degree in a construction-related discipline.
- NVQ Level 6: Comparable to an Undergraduate Degree or a relevant higher-level apprenticeship.
- NVQ Level 7: Matches the level of a Master’s Degree in a related field.
To apply for a CSCS Black Card, you must also have previously achieved a Level 4 qualification and provide evidence of it as part of your application. In addition, all applicants are required to pass the CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test—specifically the Managers and Professionals (MAP) Test, which can be booked online.
How do I apply?
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Complete your NVQ level 5,6,7 or equivalent.
The CSCS Black Manager Card is valid for 5 years.
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Understanding the CITB Managers and Professionals (MAP) Test
The CITB Managers and Professionals (MAP) Test assesses your knowledge and competency in health, safety, and construction management practices. Passing this test is a mandatory requirement for obtaining the CSCS Black Card.
The Health, Safety & Environment (HS&E) Managers and Professionals Test includes all the topics found in the Blue Card “Operatives” test, along with additional subjects tailored to managers and senior construction professionals. The test consists of 50 questions and evaluates knowledge across five key areas:
- Management & Legal
- Health and welfare
- General safety
- High-risk activities
- Environment
The CITB Managers and Professionals (MAP) Test—also known as the CSCS Black Card Test—includes behavioral case studies designed to assess your understanding of health, safety, and environmental practices, as well as safe conduct on construction sites. It's important to note that CITB regularly updates and refines the test content, so the questions you face may differ from those encountered by others who have recently taken it. Once obtained, the CSCS Black Card remains valid for 5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions:
The Site Management Safety Training Scheme (SMSTS) is a valuable qualification that enhances your credentials and can improve your job prospects in construction management. However, completing the SMSTS course alone is not enough to obtain a CSCS Black Card. To qualify, you must also pass the CITB Managers and Professionals (MAP) Test and hold a relevant NVQ Level 5, 6, or 7—or an equivalent qualification.
The CSCS Black Card is valid for 5 years from the date it is issued and can be renewed once it expires if you choose to continue working in the industry. We also highly recommend using CITB Health, Safety & Environment (Managers and Professionals) test revision resources, which are available here.
