ECS Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) Card

Validate your advanced electrical and engineering expertise with an industry-recognised ECS Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) Card for UK construction and building services projects.

ECS Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) Card for UK electrical and engineering professionals

Official-style ECS Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) Card – advanced professional certification for degree-qualified engineers and technical specialists in the UK.

Advanced Professional ECS Certification

The ECS Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) Card is designed for engineers and technical professionals who have achieved a higher level of academic or professional qualification in electrical engineering, electronic engineering, building services or a related discipline.

Holding an ECS PQP Card shows that you work in a technical, engineering, consultancy or managerial role within the electrical industry and that you understand the health and safety expectations for UK construction sites and projects.

3 Year Validity Standard ECS PQP Card period
Advanced Level For professionally qualified engineers and specialists
UK Industry Recognition Accepted across construction and building services
Degree-Level Qualification Requires recognised academic credentials

Select Your ECS PQP Card Service

Evidence requirements vary slightly for new, renewal and replacement ECS PQP Card applications.

Price: £79 + VAT
Apply for Your PQP Card

Standard application processing: 15–20 working days

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the ECS Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) Card, you must be able to show that you hold a suitable higher-level qualification and that you work in a professional role within the electrical or building services industry.

  • Holds a relevant degree-level qualification in electrical engineering, electronic engineering, building services engineering or a closely related discipline.
  • Demonstrable professional experience in a technical, engineering, design, consultancy or managerial role within the electrical or built environment sector.
  • Passed the ECS Health, Safety & Environmental Assessment within the last two years, or holds an accepted exemption.
  • Valid proof of identity such as a Passport, photocard Driving Licence or other government-issued ID.
  • Professional references or membership of recognised professional bodies (for example IET, CIBSE or similar), where applicable.

Required Documentation

When you apply online for your ECS PQP Card, you will normally be asked to upload clear copies of the documents below so that your professional status can be confirmed quickly.

  • Completed ECS Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) Card application form.
  • Proof of degree-level qualification such as certificates or academic transcripts.
  • Proof of ECS Health, Safety & Environmental test pass certificate (or accepted exemption).
  • One recent passport-style photograph.
  • Proof of ID (Passport, photocard Driving Licence or government ID card).
  • CV or professional portfolio demonstrating your role, responsibilities and experience.

Qualification Types

Acceptable qualifications for the ECS Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) Card typically include honours degrees, master’s degrees or equivalent qualifications in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Building Services Engineering, Power Systems, Renewable Energy or closely related fields.

Professional qualifications such as Chartered Engineer (CEng) status and membership of recognised bodies like the IET or CIBSE can also support your ECS PQP Card application, particularly when backed up by current industry experience.

Application Process

  1. Check that your degree or professional qualification meets the ECS PQP Card criteria.
  2. Book and pass the ECS Health, Safety & Environmental Assessment if you have not done so already.
  3. Prepare your CV, degree certificates and any professional membership evidence.
  4. Complete the online ECS Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) Card application form.
  5. Upload all supporting documents and pay the £79 + VAT service fee securely online.
  6. Once your application is approved, your ECS PQP Card is normally issued within 15–20 working days.

Card Benefits

Industry Recognition

Recognised across the UK construction and building services sector as proof of advanced professional and academic competence.

Professional Status

Shows clients, employers and principal contractors that you are professionally qualified and understand UK health and safety standards.

Career Advancement

Supports progression into senior technical, design, consultancy and managerial roles within the electrical and engineering industry.

Professional Development

Helps you demonstrate commitment to ongoing learning and continuing professional development (CPD).

Validity & Renewal

  • The ECS PQP Card is normally valid for three years from the date of issue.
  • Apply to renew before the expiry date to maintain uninterrupted access to UK construction and engineering sites.
  • Renewal typically requires a fresh ECS HS&E test pass and updated evidence of your professional role and CPD activities.
  • Pay the renewal fee as advised at the time of application; some employers may cover ECS card costs for professionally qualified staff.

Frequently Asked Questions – ECS PQP Card

What qualifications are accepted for the PQP Card?

The ECS Professionally Qualified Person (PQP) Card normally accepts degree-level qualifications in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Building Services Engineering or similar subjects from recognised institutions. Professional qualifications such as Chartered Engineer status and membership of professional bodies can further strengthen your ECS PQP Card application.

How does the PQP Card differ from other ECS cards?

Unlike trade-focused ECS cards that are aimed at on-site electricians or installers, the ECS PQP Card is intended for people in higher-level technical, design, consultancy or management roles. It recognises your academic and professional standing as well as your understanding of UK health and safety requirements.

How long is the PQP Card valid for?

The ECS PQP Card is usually valid for three years. To renew the card, you will generally need a valid ECS Health, Safety & Environmental Assessment and up-to-date evidence of your professional role and continuing development.

Can I apply for a PQP Card if I have international qualifications?

Yes. International degree-level qualifications can often be used for the ECS PQP Card, provided they are considered equivalent to UK standards. You may be asked to provide evidence from a recognition service such as UK ENIC and to show how your current role fits within the UK electrical or building services industry.