Changes to CSCS Professionally Qualified Person Card Requirements

THE CONSTRUCTION SKILLS Certification Scheme (CSCS) is changing the requirements for the issue of Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) cards following a review of the recognition of Professional Bodies.

CSCS announced it is amending its procedures to only recognise professionally qualified members of such bodies for the issue of the PQP card, effective from 30 June 2023.

Professional members of approved bodies can continue to apply for their PQP cards via their respective organisation as normal. However, those not yet professionally qualified should apply directly via the CSCS website for their required card – most likely the Apprentice, Trainee or Academically Qualified Person (AQP) cards.

This decision will not affect the renewal of cards for those who hold professionally qualified grades of membership that are currently recognised by the Scheme.

Professional Bodies Review

CSCS says it has carried out the review in order to ensure compliance with Construction Leadership (CLC) requirements which require proof of a competence assessment for the issue of skilled, advanced craft, supervisor, manager and PQP cards.

The Scheme also says the review was necessary to limit potential harm from fraudulent activity around CSCS card applications, and to address any confusion around the requirements for members of professional bodies who do not hold a professionally qualified grade of membership attaining CSCS cards.

From July 2023, CSCS will conduct an audit of all professional bodies that it has given recognition to, in order to ensure their membership grades that are recognised for the issue of the PQP card are compliant with the proposed changes.

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