Guide · Updated 2026-09-29
Do NVQs Expire?
An NVQ (or modern vocational qualification) is generally a lasting award — it does not behave like a five-year CSCS card. What expires are the cards, registrations and short-life certificates that often sit next to the qualification in a construction evidence pack.
Quick answer
Treat the NVQ as a qualification held, not a dated renewal item, unless a specific awarding body or client rule says otherwise. Track CSCS, CPCS, IPAF and similar cards on their own expiry fields. Mixing “NVQ = green forever” into a card column is how matrices lie.
Qualification versus card
| Record | Typical dating |
|---|---|
| NVQ / SVQ / RQF vocational award | Usually no scheme expiry on the award itself |
| CSCS or partner card | Often five years — check the card |
| CITB HSE test | Commonly used within a two-year window for applications |
| Plant or access cards | Follow that scheme’s renewal rules |
What clients still ask for
Auditors may want to see the certificate or diploma evidence that underpinned a skilled-card application, even years later. Store a readable file against the worker. That is evidence retention, not an invented NVQ “expiry”.
- Separate fields: qualification held vs card expiry
- Keep certificate numbers and awarding body names
- Do not colour an NVQ cell red because a related card expired — fix the card row
When refresh training still matters
Competence for a task can still need refreshers, toolbox talks or new method-specific training even if the NVQ remains valid as an award. Your organisation assigns those requirements; the NVQ alone does not replace them.
Honest limits
FieldClear does not decide whether a qualification remains acceptable for a card pathway. It stores what you assign. This guide is not legal or awarding-body advice and does not certify competence.
Already have a spreadsheet?
Upload your existing matrix and see who’s current, what’s expiring and what’s missing.
14-day free trial. No card required.