We understand there can be a lot of complicated information around CPCS and NPORS cards – whether you need a red card, blue card or just getting your head around the renewal systems.
Usually when you complete a training course, you are awarded a certificate/card that has a set expiry date and once this qualification expires you either redo the course, or do a shorter refresher course.
However this is not the case with CPCS or CSCS NPORS courses. To help you we have created an easy guide to how the certification process works.
Why are there two different types of NPORS Cards?
NPORS now has an “NPORS Traditional Card” and an “NPORS CSCS Card”. They introduced the NPORS CSCS Card to ensure that they met the same standards as CPCS, so their cards could not be rejected when onsite. Boss Training can supply both types of card, just let us know which one you would like.
What is the difference between a Traditional NPORS Card and a CSCS NPORS Card?
Traditionally, all NPORS Cards would have a standard expiry date of 3 or 5 years, at which point you would renew your card without the need to do an NVQ. Now, you have the option to stick with the traditional format, or move across to a CSCS NPORS Card that has identical rules for renewing and extending your card as CPCS. Please see the below details
All of the information in the following paragraphs applies to both CPCS Cards and CSCS NPORS cards but it does not apply to NPORS Traditional Cards.
What is a Red Card?
The initial card that you are awarded on completion of a CPCS Novice Course is a Red Card. This shows you have passed the theory and practical training, but you are still lacking in site experience.
What is a Blue Card?
Within two years of being awarded your red card, you need to upgrade to a blue card in order to keep the certification valid.
How can I get upgrade my red card to a blue card?
A blue card can be achieved by completing the relevant NVQ. This tends to be completed onsite with one of our many assessors coming out to view you completing tasks on your site. This usually takes a day, with the assessor watching you complete day to day tasks. Once the assessor has seen you working comfortably on the machine, you can apply for your blue card which lasts for 5 years.
How do you renew a blue card?
The renewal process is easy, but can take different forms. If you have kept up with your logbook and have the necessary 300 hours for the category you are renewing, then all you need to do a quick RT Test. This test resembles the touchscreen tests and can be booked directly with C-Skills.
What if I haven’t got an up to date logbook?
If you do not have the necessary hours recorded in your logbook, you will need to do an onsite assessment or Practical Test. These can be carried out onsite or at any of our training centres nationwide and typically only take a few hours.
If you are still unsure, please see the below link to an easy to follow video created by CPCS themselves or give us a call on 01422 358 184