When Does My SMSTS Certificate Expire? How to Stay Compliant
If you’ve completed the SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme) course, you’ve already taken a big step toward site safety and compliance. But that certificate you earned? It doesn’t last forever.
A surprising number of people only realise their SMSTS has expired when it’s too late — usually when they’re applying for a new role, renewing a CSCS card, or starting work on a new project. At that point, the only option is to retake the full course, which costs more time and money.
This blog breaks down how to check when your SMSTS certificate expires, what to do if it’s coming up, and how to stay fully compliant going forward.
How long is the SMSTS certificate valid for?
Your SMSTS certificate is valid for five years from the date you complete the course. Not five years and a grace period. Not five years plus a few weeks. Just five years.
Once that expiry date passes, even by a single day, you’ll no longer be eligible for the 2-day SMSTS Refresher course — and you’ll have to sit the full 5-day course all over again.
That’s why knowing your expiry date — and acting before it sneaks up on you — is so important.
Where can I find my SMSTS expiry date?
The easiest place to check is your original SMSTS certificate. It’ll have the date of completion clearly printed on it. From there, just count five years forward — that’s your expiry date.
If you’ve lost your certificate or can’t remember the date, try the following:
Contact the training provider you completed the course with. Most reputable providers keep records.
Get in touch with CITB, who manage the SMSTS scheme. They may be able to confirm your course date if you give them your details.
And if you’re currently working through a training company, they may have a record of your previous qualifications, too.
What happens if my SMSTS has already expired?
Unfortunately, if your certificate has expired, you can’t take the refresher course — even if it’s only recently lapsed. CITB rules are very clear: the refresher is only for those with a valid, in-date certificate.
So if your SMSTS expired last month (or last year), your only option is to rebook and complete the full 5-day course again. It’s a common issue, and we see it happen all the time to site managers who simply didn’t realise their certificate had run out.
When should I take the refresher course?
We recommend booking the SMSTS Refresher at least 3–6 months before your expiry date. That gives you plenty of time to find a course date that suits your schedule, without risking a last-minute panic or missing out entirely.
The refresher course is just 2 days and covers updates to legislation, site management practices, and health & safety guidance — so it’s well worth doing on time.
Why does this matter?
Staying compliant isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about making sure:
You’re eligible to work as a site manager or supervisor on major sites
You can apply for or renew your CSCS Black Card
You’re up to date with health & safety regulations
Your employer remains compliant with legal and insurance requirements
Failing to stay current with your SMSTS certificate can genuinely hold you back — and cost you more in the long run.
Final tips to stay compliant
Set a reminder in your calendar 6 months before expiry
Keep a digital copy of your certificate so you always have the date handy
Speak to your training provider if you're unsure about timelines
Act early – the refresher is faster, cheaper, and more convenient than the full course
In Summary
If you’ve completed the SMSTS course, that qualification is valid for five years. Knowing your expiry date — and taking action before it passes — is crucial for staying compliant, keeping your job options open, and avoiding unnecessary costs.
Not sure when your certificate runs out? Don’t leave it to chance. Check the date, plan ahead, and get your refresher booked well in advance.
Need help booking your refresher or checking your expiry? Get in touch — we’re happy to guide you through it.
