How to Get Your CSCS Card as a Bricklayer, Plasterer or Tiler

Bricklayers, plasterers and tilers all work towards the same shape of qualification — a trade-specific NVQ Level 2 — and the same shape of CSCS card journey. The trade content differs, but the steps are identical.

Step 1: Get on site and start gathering evidence

NVQs are evidence-based, so you need to be doing real, relevant work — as an employee, subcontractor or on a placement — before an assessor can sign off your competence. Many people start here on a Red Trainee CSCS card while their NVQ is registered and underway.

Step 2: Complete your trade NVQ Level 2

Depending on your trade, this means:

• NVQ Level 2 Bricklaying
• NVQ Level 2 Plastering
• NVQ Level 2 Wall and Floor Tiling

An assessor visits you on site (or reviews photographic/video evidence and asks questions) to confirm you can carry out the core tasks of the trade to the national occupational standard, across a range of situations.

Step 3: Pass the CITB HS&E test

Alongside your NVQ, you'll need a current pass of the CITB Operatives Health, Safety and Environment test — see our full CSCS test guide for what to expect.

Step 4: Apply for your Blue Skilled Worker card

Once you hold the full NVQ Level 2 and a current HS&E test pass, you can apply to CSCS for the Blue Skilled Worker card — valid for 5 years, and the card most site managers expect to see from a qualified bricklayer, plasterer or tiler.

What comes next?

From here, many tradespeople progress to a Level 3 NVQ — moving into more advanced, independent or supervisory work — which is the route to a Gold CSCS card. See our guide on NVQ Level 2 vs Level 3 for what that involves.