ESS Card Types
The Engineering Services Skill (ESS) Cards are proof that workers in the construction and building services industry hold the required skills, training, and qualifications for their role. Whether you’re a new entrant or an experienced professional, there’s an ESS Card suited to your level of experience and education.
Below you’ll find details of all available ESS Card types, including the qualification level, validity period, and who each card is designed for. Click Know More to view full requirements or Apply Now to start your application today.
ESS Green Card - Mate
For General Labourers and Site Operatives
🕒 Validity: 5 Years
Blue ESS Card - Skilled Worker
For skilled worker with relevant Apprenticeship Standard/NVQ/SVQ Level 2
🕒 Validity: 5 Years
Blue ESS Card - Experienced Worker
For those without formal qualifications, working towards an NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or higher.
🕒 Validity: 3 Years
ESS Red Card - Trainee
For those with no prior experience, registered for an Apprenticeship, NVQ, SVQ, NC, HNC, or Degree but yet to qualify.
🕒 Validity: 5 Years
ESS Red Card - Industry Experienced
For students in programs requiring 30+ days of work placement, like T Levels, Traineeships, or Sandwich Degrees.
🕒 Validity: 3 Years
ESS Gold Card - Advanced Craft
For Skilled worker with an Apprenticeship Standard/NVQ/SVQ Level 3
🕒 Validity: 5 Years
ESS Gold Card - Supervisor
For those with a Level 3 or higher qualification in building services engineering.
🕒 Validity: 5 Years
ESS Black card - Managers
Managers cards are for those with a Level 4+ qualification in building services engineering or construction management.
🕒 Validity: 5 Years
ESS White Card - Professionally Qualified Person
This card is available to members of ESS approved Professional Bodies.
🕒 Validity: 5 Years
ESS White Card - Academically Qualified Person
For anyone with a construction degree, HND, HNC, CIOB Certificate, or NEBOSH diploma.
🕒 Validity: 5 Years
ESS White Card - ACRIB Refrigerant Handler
For anyone with City & Guilds 2079 (Cat1), BESA FG Cat1, an NVQ unit recognized by DEFRA, or Logic 603/1917/3 (Cat1).
🕒 Validity: 3 Years
Which ESS Card Is Right for You?
Choosing the correct ESS Card depends on your current level of experience and qualifications. Entry-level workers usually start with the Green ESS Labourer Card, while experienced tradespeople progress to the Blue Skilled Worker Card or Gold Advanced Craft Card.
Supervisors, managers, and professionals can qualify for Gold Supervisor, Black Manager, or White PQP/AQP cards depending on their education or membership in a professional body.
All ESS Cards are typically valid for three to five years and can be renewed once your qualifications and health & safety training are up to date.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ESS Card?▼
The ESS Card is an industry-recognized certification proving that you have the required skills, knowledge, and safety training to work in the construction sector.
How do I apply for an ESS Card?▼
Simply choose your card type above and click Apply Now. You’ll be guided through a quick form to submit your details and qualification information.
Can I upgrade my card later?▼
Yes. Once you achieve a higher qualification, you can upgrade to a more advanced ESS Card type such as Skilled Worker, Supervisor, or Manager.
Still not sure which card you need?
Contact Our Team