Scheme organisers have decided to waive the usual fees and make the application process easier.

The move follows feedback from contractors which found many employers are either not aware of the apprentice card or are put off applying for it by the lengthy registration processes. This has lead to many opting for using the labourer card instead for apprentices.

All apprentice cards will be issued from today free of charge.

CSCS will also be introducing a new process for anyone experiencing difficulties with their apprenticeship registration.

In this scenario, the new entrant can apply for the Provisional Card (at £36), before moving onto the Apprentice card, free of charge.

This means employers and apprentices will apply for a Provisional card prior to completing the apprenticeship enrolment process.

Alan O’Neile, Head of Communications at CSCS said: “The Provisional card is valid for six months, cannot be renewed and requires the completion of the CITB Health, safety, and environment test, which can be transferred across to the Apprentice card.

“When enrolled onto the apprenticeship the Apprentice will move off the Provisional card and onto the Apprentice card free of charge.”

The Provisional card does not require the applicant to achieve a Level 1 award (as per the Labourer card), thereby reducing time and costs for both the employer and the new entrant.

O’Neile added: “The Provisional card option also gives employers and new entrants a six-month window to decide if the apprenticeship is right for them.”

For more further information on Apprentice card applications click here.