CIDB Grade Calculator

Your CIDB grade is determined by the lowest qualifying factor among your best annual turnover, available capital, and largest single contract completed in the last 5 years. Grades range from 1 (up to R200,000 contracts) to 9 (unlimited contract value). Both financial and works capability must support the grade you are seeking.

CIDB registration is valid for three years. However, contractors must submit annual updates to confirm their financial and works capability. Failure to submit annual updates can result in suspension of your registration, meaning you cannot tender for any public-sector construction contracts until the update is processed.

No. This is one of the most common reasons for tender disqualification in construction. If the tender value exceeds the maximum for your grade, your bid is declared non-responsive and automatically rejected. There is no discretion or appeal — the rule is absolute. Always check your grade covers the estimated contract value before preparing a submission.

Initial registration typically takes 21 business days from submission of a complete application. Upgrades follow a similar timeline. The most common cause of delays is incomplete documentation — missing financial statements, expired tax clearance certificates, or insufficient proof of completed contracts.

Required documents depend on your target grade. Generally: audited or reviewed financial statements (grades 2–9), valid tax clearance certificate from SARS, CIPC company registration documents, proof of contracts completed (completion certificates or client references), and a valid B-BBEE certificate or sworn affidavit. Grade 1 applicants have simplified requirements.

Yes. Joint ventures can combine the financial and works capabilities of their members to qualify for a higher grading designation than either partner holds individually. The JV must be formally registered with the CIDB before tendering. This is a common strategy for smaller contractors to access higher-value tenders.