CIDB Registration Guide: How to Register as a Construction Contractor

CIDB Work Classes, Grades, and Contract Value Thresholds

The CIDB Register of Contractors uses a grading system combining a numerical grade (1–9) and a work class designation. Work classes include: GB (General Building), CE (Civil Engineering), EB (Electrical Engineering — Buildings), EP (Electrical Engineering — Infrastructure), ME (Mechanical Engineering), SB (Specialist Works — various sub-categories). Each grade corresponds to a maximum contract value the contractor is eligible to bid for. Grade 1 allows contracts up to R200 000; Grade 2 up to R650 000; Grade 3 up to R2 million; Grade 4 up to R4 million; Grade 5 up to R6.5 million; Grade 6 up to R13 million; Grade 7 up to R40 million; Grade 8 up to R130 million; Grade 9 is unlimited. These thresholds are periodically reviewed by the CIDB.

Your CIDB grade is determined by two assessments: your financial capability (available capital as evidenced by bank statements and financial statements) and your works capability (value of construction work executed in the past five years, evidenced by completion certificates and references). Both assessments must independently support your claimed grade — you cannot be registered at a grade higher than either assessment allows. CIDB also provides for Potentially Emerging Enterprises (PEE) designations that allow contractors to bid one grade above their assessed grade while under contractor development monitoring.

• Grade 1: up to R200 000 in contract value
• Grade 2: up to R650 000
• Grade 3: up to R2 million
• Grade 4: up to R4 million
• Grade 5: up to R6.5 million
• Grade 6: up to R13 million
• Grade 7: up to R40 million
• Grade 8: up to R130 million | Grade 9: unlimited

Documents, Costs, and the CIDB Registration Process

To apply for CIDB registration, submit the application form (available at cidb.org.za) with the following supporting documents: certified CIPC company registration documents (CoR14.3 or CK documents for CCs), certified ID copies of all directors or members, a valid CSD supplier number, SARS tax clearance or TCS pin, B-BBEE certificate or sworn affidavit, audited financial statements or certified management accounts (for financial capability assessment), and a schedule of completed construction projects with completion certificates or reference letters (for works capability assessment). The application is submitted to the nearest CIDB regional office or through the online portal at cidb.org.za.

CIDB registration fees are prescribed and range from R490 (Grade 1) to R9 450 (Grade 9) for initial registration. Annual renewal fees apply at similar rate tiers. Registration at Grade 1–3 is processed within approximately 10–15 business days. Higher grade registrations (Grade 4 and above) may take 4–8 weeks due to the more detailed assessment process. CIDB registration must be renewed annually, and contractors must update their works experience and financial capacity evidence to maintain or upgrade their grade. Failure to renew on time results in deregistration, which disqualifies the contractor from all government construction tenders.

• CIPC company documents (certified CoR14.3 or CK)
• Director/member certified ID copies
• CSD supplier number
• SARS TCS pin or tax clearance certificate
• B-BBEE certificate or sworn affidavit
• Audited or certified financial statements (financial capability)
• Project completion certificates/references (works capability)
• CIDB registration fees: R490 (Grade 1) to R9 450 (Grade 9)

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Guides

• CSD Registration Guide
• Professional Body Registration
• Construction Industry Registrations
• SANRAL Tenders