CSCS Red Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager (TSM) Card
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Validity
3 Years (Non-Renewable)
About the CSCS Red Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager (TSM) Card
The CSCS Red Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager (TSM) Card is designed for experienced Supervisors, Managers, and Technical Workers who have substantial on-site experience but are still working towards a recognised Technical, Supervisory, or Management qualification. This temporary card is intended for individuals with at least one year’s relevant experience within the last three years who are registered to complete an approved TSM NVQ/SVQ Level 3, SVQ at SCQF Level 6, or a higher qualification. The card is valid for 3 years and cannot be renewed. During this period, cardholders are expected to complete their qualification and progress to the appropriate permanent CSCS card, such as the Gold Supervisor Card or Black Manager Card.
Eligibility Requirements
CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test
You must have passed the appropriate CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test for your occupation within the last 2 years.
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Registered for an Approved TSM Qualification
You must have at least 1 year of relevant on-site experience within the last 3 years, and be registered to complete an approved TSM NVQ/SVQ Level 3, SVQ at SCQF Level 6, or a higher qualification.
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Card Validity
The CSCS Red Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager Card is valid for 3 years. This card cannot be renewed. Before it expires, you should complete your qualification and apply for the appropriate permanent CSCS card based on your occupation and qualification.
Who Should Apply?
- Construction Supervisors
- Site Managers
- Assistant Site Managers
- Technical Workers
- Construction Professionals working towards a TSM qualification
- Experienced workers progressing to a Gold or Black CSCS Card
Documents Required
Valid Photo ID
Passed CITB Health, Safety & Environment Test
Evidence of registration for an approved TSM NVQ/SVQ qualification
Passport-style photograph (if required)
Proof of Registration
You must provide evidence from your training provider or awarding organisation showing your full name, the full qualification title and level, and the registration date (must be within the last 2 years).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Last updated: 2026–2027
What is a CSCS Red Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager (TSM) Card?
The CSCS Red Experienced Technical, Supervisor or Manager (TSM) Card is a temporary card for experienced technical workers, supervisors, and managers who are registered on an NVQ or SVQ at Level 3 or higher but haven't yet completed it. It's valid for 3 years.
Who is eligible for the CSCS Red TSM Card?
You're eligible if you have at least one year of on-the-job experience in a technical, supervisory, or management role within the last three years, are registered for a relevant Level 3+ NVQ or SVQ, and have a CITB test pass from the last 2 years.
How much experience do I need for the Red TSM Card?
You need at least one year of on-the-job experience in a technical, supervisory, or management role within the last three years. This experience is typically confirmed alongside your NVQ registration evidence as part of your application.
What qualification do I need to be registered for to get a Red TSM Card?
You must be registered for a construction-related Technical, Supervisory, or Management NVQ or SVQ at Level 3 or higher (or an SVQ at SCQF Level 6 or above). Your registration must be dated within the last 2 years.
Which CITB test do I need for the CSCS Red TSM Card?
It depends on your NVQ level. If you're registered on a Level 3 or 4 supervisor NVQ, you need the CITB Specialists test. If you're registered on a Level 6 or 7 manager NVQ, you need the Managers and Professionals (MAP) test.
How long is the CSCS Red TSM Card valid for?
The CSCS Red TSM Card is valid for 3 years from the date of issue. This is the longest validity of the experience-based Red cards, giving you time to complete a Level 3 or higher NVQ.
Can I renew my CSCS Red TSM Card?
No. The Red TSM Card cannot be renewed or extended. You're expected to complete your NVQ before it expires and apply for a permanent skilled card, such as the Gold Supervisor or Black Manager card.
What proof of NVQ registration do I need for the Red TSM Card?
You need written evidence from your training organisation or awarding body showing your full name, the full title and level of the NVQ or SVQ you're registered for, and your registration date, which must be within the last 2 years.
What happens when my CSCS Red TSM Card expires?
Your card expires and cannot be reissued. By then you should have completed your NVQ, allowing you to apply for the permanent card matching your qualification — a Gold Supervisor card or Black Manager card.
What's the difference between the Red TSM Card and the Red Experienced Worker Card?
The Red TSM Card requires a Level 3+ technical, supervisory, or management NVQ and is valid for 3 years. The Red Experienced Worker Card requires a Level 2+ NVQ and is valid for only 1 year.
Can I upgrade from a Red TSM Card to a Gold Supervisor Card?
Yes. If you complete a supervisory NVQ at Level 3 or 4, you can apply for the Gold Supervisor card, which is a permanent, renewable card with a longer validity than the temporary Red TSM Card.
Can I upgrade from a Red TSM Card to a Black Manager Card?
Yes. If you complete a construction management NVQ at Level 6 or 7, you can apply for the Black Manager card, the highest-level permanent CSCS card for site managers.
What jobs can I do with a CSCS Red TSM Card?
The Red TSM Card allows you to work on construction sites in technical, supervisory, or management roles — such as site engineers, supervisors, and managers — while you complete the NVQ required for your permanent card.
How long does it take to get a CSCS Red TSM Card?
Once your application is approved, the card is typically processed and issued within 7 to 10 working days, in line with standard CSCS card processing times.
Do I need the right to work in the UK to apply for a Red TSM Card?
Yes. You need the legal right to work in the UK and a suitable photograph that meets CSCS requirements, alongside your NVQ registration evidence and a valid CITB test pass.
What happens if I don't finish my NVQ before my Red TSM Card expires?
Because the card can't be renewed, you'd need to apply for whichever CSCS card matches your qualification status at that point. Planning your NVQ timeline carefully within the 3 years is important to avoid a gap in site access.
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