CIDB Grade Calculator (South Africa)

Find out what CIDB grade your construction company qualifies for. Enter two numbers and we’ll show you the maximum tender value you can bid on.

The CIDB grades contractors from 1 to 9 based on two qualifying numbers: the largest single contract you have completed in the last five years, and the capital you have available to start a new project. Your awarded grade is the lower of the two. Punch in both figures and the calculator works out the grade and the tender value range that comes with it.

CIDB Grade Calculator

The biggest contract value your company has delivered in this class of works. CIDB checks this against the Register of Projects.

Net asset value (assets minus liabilities) plus any sponsorship or surety a third party gives you in writing.

How CIDB grading works

  • The CIDB awards a grade from 1 to 9. Grade 1 is open registration with no qualifying criteria. Grade 9 has no tender value ceiling.
  • Two numbers decide your grade: the largest single contract you have delivered in the last five years (Track Record), and the capital you have available (Financial Capability). Your grade is whichever of the two is lower.
  • Available capital is your net asset value plus any surety or sponsorship a third party offers, confirmed by your audited financial statements.
  • The grade you are awarded sets the maximum tender value you can bid on. Bidding R1 above the cap disqualifies you automatically.
  • All values shown are VAT-inclusive, in line with how the CIDB publishes them.
  • A separate Class of Works (General Building, Civil Engineering, Electrical, Mechanical, and the rest) controls which kinds of contracts you can take on. The grading thresholds are the same across all classes.

Frequently asked questions

This calculator is a guide based on the CIDB threshold tables published on cidb.org.za. The official CIDB grading also assesses your best annual turnover over the last two financial years and applies professional and staffing rules for some classes of works. For a binding answer, use the CIDB’s own Grading Designation Calculator or speak to a registered tax practitioner. Data verified 10 May 2026.