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CIDB Grading Table 2026
Complete grading levels, tender value limits, track record requirements, PE status, JV combinations, fees and all classes of construction works.
The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), established by the CIDB Act 38 of 2000, maintains the Register of Contractors (RoC) — a macro-risk management system that categorises contractors into nine grading levels. These grades serve as a "licence to trade" with the government: public sector clients are legally prohibited from awarding construction contracts to unregistered entities or contractors whose grading falls below the required tender value limit.
A CIDB grade is represented by a digit (the level) and two letters (the class of works). For example, "4GB" means a Grade 4 contractor qualified in General Building. A contractor with PE status is listed as "4GBPE".
With infrastructure spend forecasted at approximately R157 billion and industry growth projected between 3% and 5.8% for 2025/2026, understanding the CIDB grading system is essential for contractors seeking to secure sustainable growth in public procurement.
CIDB Grading Table — Tender Value Limits (2025/2026)
All tender values are VAT inclusive. Track record refers to the largest single contract completed in the relevant class of works within the 5 years preceding the application, registered on the CIDB Register of Projects (RoP).
| Grade | Max Tender Value (VAT Incl.) | Track Record Required | Primary Basis |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grade 1 | R500,000 | None | Administrative compliance only |
| Grade 2 | R1,000,000 | R130,000 | Financial & track record |
| Grade 3 | R3,000,000 | R450,000 | Financial & track record |
| Grade 4 | R6,000,000 | R900,000 | Financial & track record |
| Grade 5 | R10,000,000 | R1,500,000 | Financial & track record |
| Grade 6 | R20,000,000 | R3,000,000 | Financial & track record |
| Grade 7 | R60,000,000 | R9,000,000 | Financial & track record |
| Grade 8 | R200,000,000 | R30,000,000 | Financial & track record |
| Grade 9 | No Limit | R90,000,000 | Financial & track record |
Source: CIDB Register of Contractors — Regulation 25, Table B (2024/2025 financial period). Financial capability is evaluated through best annual turnover in the two preceding financial years and available capital (retained income + shareholder loans + net asset value).
Grade 1 — The Barrier-Free Entry Point
Grade 1 is fundamentally different from all other CIDB levels. It is designed as a streamlined entry point for new companies with no financial history or construction track record required. This "no qualifying criteria" status lowers barriers for Black-owned and SMME enterprises entering the formal construction economy.
Required documents: CIPC registration (CoR 14.3), certified ID copies (≤3 months), SARS TCS PIN, CSD registration (MAAA number), and share certificates for Pty Ltd companies.Read the full Grade 1 registration guide →
Potentially Emerging (PE) Status
PE status is a strategic empowerment mechanism under the CIDB Regulations of 2004 that allows contractors owned by previously disadvantaged persons to bid one grade above their registered level. It acts as a "booster" — a Grade 3PE contractor can bid on Grade 4 tenders worth up to R6 million.
PE Eligibility Requirements
- Majority owned by Black persons, women, youth, people with disabilities, or military veterans
- Previously disadvantaged principals exercise financial and managerial authority
- Client must have a Targeted Development Programme (TDP) or Contractor Development Programme (CDP)
- Client provides financial, management, or technical mentorship support
| Registered Grade | Standard Max Value | PE Max Value (One Grade Above) |
|---|---|---|
| 1PE | R500,000 | R1,000,000 |
| 2PE | R1,000,000 | R3,000,000 |
| 3PE | R3,000,000 | R6,000,000 |
| 4PE | R6,000,000 | R10,000,000 |
| 5PE | R10,000,000 | R20,000,000 |
| 6PE | R20,000,000 | R60,000,000 |
| 7PE | R60,000,000 | R200,000,000 |
| 8PE | R200,000,000 | No Limit |
PE status is particularly powerful for contractors stuck in the "Grade 1 to 3 plateau" — it lets them secure larger projects needed to meet the track record requirement for a permanent upgrade.
Classes of Construction Works
A CIDB registration is only valid for the specific class of works in which the contractor has demonstrated competence. Contractors may register in multiple classes if they can provide the necessary track record for each (a Quantity Surveyor's BoQ may be required to split values).
Primary Classes
General Building
Construction, renovation or dismantling of permanent shelters — domestic dwellings, commercial buildings, schools, hospitals
Civil Engineering
Engineering infrastructure — roads, railways, bridges, water treatment plants, dams, sewerage systems
Mechanical Engineering
Installation or maintenance of mechanical infrastructure — HVAC, gas transmission, solid waste disposal, manufacturing
Electrical Engineering (Building)
Electrical systems in premises — from points of control to consumption points (wiring, lighting, distribution)
Electrical Engineering (Infrastructure)
Generation, transmission and distribution of electricity across larger grids — power stations, substations
Specialist Sub-Categories
| Code | Specialist Class Description |
|---|---|
| SB | Asphalt Works (Supply and Lay) |
| SC | Building Excavations and Lateral Earth Support |
| SD | Corrosion Protection (Cathodic, Anodic) |
| SE | Demolition and Blasting |
| SF | Fire Prevention and Protection Systems |
| SG | Glazing, Curtain Walls, and Shopfronts |
| SH | Landscaping, Irrigation, and Horticulture |
| SI | Lifts, Escalators, and Travellators |
| SJ | Piling and Specialised Foundations |
| SK | Road Markings and Signage |
| SL | Structural Steelwork Fabrication and Erection |
| SM | Timber Buildings and Structures |
| SN | Waterproofing of Basements, Roofs, and Walls |
| SO | Water Supply and Drainage (Plumbing/Wet Services) |
| SQ | Steel Security Fencing or Precast Concrete |
Joint Venture (JV) Combinations
Joint Ventures allow contractors to combine their individual strengths to tender for projects exceeding their individual grading limits. A JV is project-specific — not a permanent registration. The lead partner must hold a grade no more than one level below the project requirement.
| Target Combined Grade | "Deemed to Satisfy" Combination |
|---|---|
| Grade 3 | Three Grade 2 contractors |
| Grade 4 | Three Grade 3 contractors OR Two Grade 4 contractors |
| Grade 5 | Two Grade 4 contractors OR One Grade 4 + Two Grade 3 |
| Grade 6 | Two Grade 5 contractors OR One Grade 5 + Two Grade 4 |
| Grade 7 | Two Grade 6 contractors OR One Grade 6 + Two Grade 5 |
| Grade 8 | Three Grade 7 contractors |
| Grade 9 | Three Grade 8 contractors |
Each JV partner can use their portion of the completed project to support their own future grading upgrade, provided they maintain clear records of their specific contributions.
CIDB Fee Structure & Processing Times
| Grade | Application Fee | Annual Update Fee | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | R450 | R0 (none) | 2 working days |
| 2 | R450 | R250 | 21 working days |
| 3 | R750 | R350 | 21 working days |
| 4 | R750 | R900 | 21 working days |
| 5 | R750 | R1,750 | 21 working days |
| 6 | R750 | R3,500 | 21 working days |
| 7 | R750 | R9,000 | 21 working days |
| 8 | R750 | R29,000 | 21 working days |
| 9 | R750 | R55,000 | 21 working days |
Source: CIDB fee schedule 2024–2026. Grade 1 registration is valid for 3 years. The CIDB warns against using "agents" who promise to fast-track applications — the board does not endorse agents and encourages contractors to use free advisory services at provincial offices.
Upgrade Requirements (Grade 2–9)
Grades 2–9 require two key proofs:
- Financial Capability: Best annual turnover in the 2 years preceding the application, plus available capital (retained income + shareholder loans + net asset value).
- Works Capability: Largest single contract completed in the relevant class within the last 5 years, registered on the Register of Projects (RoP).
- RoP Requirement: Since April 2021, the CIDB will not consider any project not registered on the RoP. The client must register the project within 21 days of award.
Why Contractors Fail to Upgrade
- Client didn't register project on RoP — the project "doesn't exist" for grading purposes. Verify within 21 days of award.
- Completion certificates incomplete — must be on client letterhead, signed, with project description, final value, and dates.
- Wrong accounting officer — tax practitioners not registered with SAICA or SAIPA are rejected for Grades 4+.
- Outdated financial statements — must cover the 12 months immediately preceding the application. Draft statements are rejected.
Track Your CIDB Status
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Track My GradingFrequently Asked Questions
What is the CIDB grading table for 2026?
Can I tender for a contract higher than my grade?
What is CIDB Potentially Emerging (PE) status?
How does a Joint Venture (JV) affect grading?
What are the CIDB classes of construction works?
What is the track record requirement to upgrade my CIDB grade?
How much does CIDB registration and annual renewal cost?
How long does CIDB registration take?
How do I upgrade my CIDB grading?
Related CIDB Guides
CIDB Registration Guide
Complete Grade 1 registration process — documents, fees, 48-hour activation
CIDB Upgrade Guide
How to upgrade from Grade 1 to Grade 2+ — RoP, track record, financials
CIMS CIDB Login Portal
Access the CIDB online portal to manage registration and certificates
CSD Registration & MAAA Number
Register on Central Supplier Database — required for CIDB Grade 1