UK Do I need a Gold Card

[JayC DC]

Hello. Much help would be appreciated.

I’m 30 years old and have had an on off relationship with electrics, however I am not qualified. I’m paying for a home course for my level 2 and 3 which will involve everything from Health and safety to practical exams and a centre. It’s all legit and I should breeze it with my background.
However I’ve never heard of a gold card. Will I need that also if I want to jump straight into the trade?

 

[Zdb]

You won't need a gold card unless you're planning on working on building sites.

 

[JayC DC]

You won't need a gold card unless you're planning on working on building sites.

Oh. Similar to a CSCS for electrical work. Ok thank you.

Google would t give me an answer. My Level 2 and 3 should be enough then correct.

 

[Zdb]

I think you will need an NVQ3 to get a gold card. Level 2 & 3 technical will get you an electrical labourer card which is white.

ECS Card Types | Electrotechnical Certification Scheme

The Electrotechnical Certification Scheme (ECS) accredits the qualifications and experience of workers in the electrotechnical industry

www.ecscard.org.uk

 

[JBW175]

Plus AM2 too.

 

[JamesL2022]

I know some people will probably disagree with me here, but if you can, I would always recommend you should get your gold card. A lot of employers regard it quite highly as you need to complete an NVQ portfolio which shows a range of containment and wiring systems you’ve done and then the benchmark AM2 exam, which I think for any electrician who wants to call themselves one should have taken and passed. I was in the same boat as you I came back to the trade after doing a 2330 level 2, 9 years ago. I’ve just completed the full level 3 2357 + AM2 which for me personally was the only route I wanted to take. Good luck with whichever way you do it ?

 

[davesparks]

Oh. Similar to a CSCS for electrical work. Ok thank you.

It's exactly that, the ECS card is the electrical industry equivalent of the CSCS card

 

[Kidsolo]

the Gold card is the pinnacle of being a qualified electrician

 

[TomasJ]

I think getting the gold card would be a good idea. It will make you more competitive, when it comes to searching for a job, and the same goes for if you want to start your own business.