NCSC (UK National Cyber Security Centre) · uk
CHECK: pen test requirements 2026
CHECK is a NCSC scheme — testers must hold CHECK Team Member or CHECK Team Leader qualifications and be employed by a CHECK-Green-Light organisation. Required for UK gov + CNI engagements.
Required
Mandatory for UK government and CNI (Critical National Infrastructure) pen testing
Region
UK
Publisher
NCSC
Applies to
- UK government departments
- Critical National Infrastructure
- Public sector contracts requiring CHECK scope
Budget impact
Day count impact
Neutral — same day counts as standard CREST
Rate impact
CHECK Team Member-led work typically carries a £300-£500/day premium over standard CREST
Source
↗ https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/section/products-services/all-products-services-categories?categories=PentestingCheckVerified 2026-06-02.
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