In my experience, the simplest way to think about it is this: if you’re going onto site as a general labourer or in a non-trade role where you’re not covered by a specific skilled card, the Green Card route is usually what people expect. I remember turning up for a short-term job years ago thinking, “I’ve got PPE and common sense, I’ll be fine.” I wasn’t. The site wanted evidence I understood basic safety rules, not just that I could carry materials. Typically, you’ll need the Green Card course if you’re doing general labouring, helping trades, moving materials, cleaning up, or doing basic site support tasks. It can also apply if you’re new to construction and want a straightforward entry point to prove you “get” site safety. A quick practical tip is to ring the site or your agency before you book anything and ask, “Which CSCS card category do you require for this role?” That one question can stop you wasting money on the wrong route. In trying to wrap my head around this, I stumbled upon an interesting site that might help you. While we’re on the topic, if you’re actually doing a specific trade, it’s worth checking whether a skilled or trainee card fits better, because some sites will prefer that over Green.