The main competence card for operating construction plant, endorsed per machine category. It is issued by NOCN Job Cards.

Who needs a CPCS card?

Excavator, dozer, roller, telehandler, forklift and crane operators. On the Universal Bedford project we list 2 roles that would typically require it, including plant operator (excavator, dozer, roller), crane operator.

How do I get a CPCS card?

1. Pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test 2. Complete training and pass theory and practical tests for each machine category 3. Apply for the Red trained operator card, then convert to Blue with an NVQ and logged hours

How much does a CPCS card cost?

Indicatively £900 to £2500, depending on the provider and what is included. That is a market range rather than a quote — costs change and vary regionally, so confirm with NOCN Job Cards or an approved provider before booking.

How long does a CPCS card last?

Red 2 years, Blue 5 years. Blue cards renew with continued experience; Red must be converted before expiry.

Issued by NOCN Job Cards

CPCS card

Construction Plant Competence Scheme

Indicative cost: £900–£2500
Valid for: Red 2 years, Blue 5 years
Roles needing it: 2
Issuer: NOCN Job Cards

Costs are indicative and change. Confirm with the issuing body before booking anything.

How to get one

Pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test
Complete training and pass theory and practical tests for each machine category
Apply for the Red trained operator card, then convert to Blue with an NVQ and logged hours

NOCN Job Cards — official site

Worth knowing. Each machine is a separate category and a separate cost. Adding categories to an existing card is far cheaper than starting from scratch — one of the best returns on training spend in construction.

Roles that need this

2 roles on the Universal Bedford project would typically require it.

Plant operator (excavator, dozer, roller)

Training or ticket needed

Plant, logistics & drivers

£180–£265 per day

Operating the heavy machinery that shapes the site.

High volumeVery likely local

Crane operator

Specialist

Plant, logistics & drivers

£230–£330 per day

Tower and mobile crane operation through the structural phases.

Steady need

CPCS card: common questions

What is a CPCS card?: The main competence card for operating construction plant, endorsed per machine category. It is issued by NOCN Job Cards.
Who needs a CPCS card?: Excavator, dozer, roller, telehandler, forklift and crane operators. On the Universal Bedford project we list 2 roles that would typically require it, including plant operator (excavator, dozer, roller), crane operator.
How do I get a CPCS card?: 1. Pass the CITB Health, Safety and Environment test 2. Complete training and pass theory and practical tests for each machine category 3. Apply for the Red trained operator card, then convert to Blue with an NVQ and logged hours
How much does a CPCS card cost?: Indicatively £900 to £2500, depending on the provider and what is included. That is a market range rather than a quote — costs change and vary regionally, so confirm with NOCN Job Cards or an approved provider before booking.
How long does a CPCS card last?: Red 2 years, Blue 5 years. Blue cards renew with continued experience; Red must be converted before expiry.

We do not sell training, do not take commission from providers, and are not affiliated with NOCN Job Cards. This page is a plain-English summary — the issuing body is the authority.