PEC Firm Upgradation Simplified – A Complete Guide
Introduction
Are you looking to upgrade your PEC (Pakistan Engineering Council) firm registration? Whether you’re a contractor, consultant, or engineering firm, PEC firm upgradation is essential to expand your business and bid on larger projects. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the PEC firm upgradation process, requirements, benefits, and key tips to optimize your application and get it approved swiftly.
What is PEC Firm Upgradation?
PEC (Pakistan Engineering Council) regulates the registration of engineering firms and contractors in Pakistan. Upgrading your firm means moving to a higher category, which allows you to undertake larger projects with increased financial limits.
Why is PEC Firm Upgradation Important?
- Increased project bidding capacity
- Enhanced market reputation
- Opportunities for government contracts
- Compliance with PEC regulations
- Increased client trust and credibility
Categories of PEC Firm Registration
PEC categorizes firms into different classes based on their financial worth and experience:
- C-6 (Entry-Level)
- C-5
- C-4
- C-3
- C-2
- C-1
- CB
- CA (Highest Level)
Each category has specific financial, technical, and experience-based criteria that firms must meet to qualify for upgradation. For more informations,read https://alphaconsultingpk.com/pec-firm-registration-process-explained-c6/
PEC Firm Upgradation Methods
Currently, PEC firm upgradation can be done through two main methods:
-
PEC Firm Upgradation on Work Order Basis
This method allows firms to upgrade their PEC registration based on their completed projects and work orders. The key requirements include:
- Submission of verified work orders from previous projects.
- Providing completion certificates from clients.
- Demonstrating project execution experience in the relevant category.
- Ensuring financial stability and maintaining a strong tax record.
This method is ideal for firms that have ongoing or completed projects and wish to leverage their work history for upgradation.
-
PEC Firm Upgradation with Engineer Partnership Basis
This method involves partnering with a PEC-registered engineer to qualify for upgradation. The main criteria include:
- Hiring or partnering with an engineer who holds a valid PEC registration with a minimum 51% engineer share as per PEC policy 2025.
- For C-6 and C-5 categories, fresh engineers can be considered by giving them a 51% share.
- For C-4 category, a minimum of 5 years of engineering experience is required.
- For C-3 category, a minimum of 10+ years of engineering experience is required.
- For C-2 category, a minimum of 20+ years of engineering experience is required.
- The maximum category allowed for new registration or upgradation on an engineer basis is C-2.
This method benefits firms that may not have extensive work orders but can fulfill the technical staff requirement through a qualified engineer.
Work Order Types for PEC Firm Upgradation
Work orders are classified into two main categories for PEC firm upgradation:
- Private or Semi-Government Work Orders
For firms applying for PEC firm upgradation using private or semi-government work orders, the following documents are required:
- Work orders issued for the project.
- Completion certificate verifying that at least 60% of the project has been successfully completed.
- Payment proof for the work done, with a minimum of 25% transaction proof for a single project.
- Example: If you have a project worth PKR 10 million, you must provide a completion certificate for at least 60% of the work and payment proof (cheques or online transfers) for at least PKR 2.5 million.
-
Government or Public Sector Work Orders
For PEC firm upgradation based on government or public sector work orders, firms need to submit:
- Work orders issued by the government or public sector organizations.
- Completion certificate confirming at least 60% of project completion.
Unlike private sector work orders, payment proof is not required for government or public sector projects, simplifying the upgradation process. To read more regarding renewal and upgradation ,please read https://shorturl.at/fNOsq
PEC Upgradation Categories and Requirements
Below is a summary of upgradation paths from C6 to higher categories, including financial and experience requirements:
Here is the updated table with the additional financial worth and work experience requirements for each target category:
| Current Category | Target Category | Financial Worth (PKR) | Work Experience (Completed Projects in Last 3 Years) |
|---|---|---|---|
| C6 | C5 | 65 million | 17 million (1 crore 70 lac) |
| C6 | C4 | 200 million | 45.5 million (4 crore 50 lac) |
| C6 | C3 | 500 million | 140 million (14 crore) |
| C6 | C2 | 1000 million (1 billion) | 350 million (35 crore) |
| C5 | C4 | 200 million | 45.5 million (4 crore 50 lac) |
| C5 | C3 | 500 million | 140 million (14 crore) |
| C5 | C2 | 1000 million (1 billion) | 350 million (35 crore) |
| C4 | C3 | 500 million | 140 million (14 crore) |
| C4 | C2 | 1000 million (1 billion) | 350 million (35 crore) |
| C3 | C2 | 1000 million (1 billion) | 350 million (35 crore) |
| C3 | C1 | 2500 million (2.5 billion) | 700 million (70 crore) |
| C3 | CB | 4500 million (4.5 billion) | 1750 million (1 arab 75 crore) |
| C3 | CA | No Limit | 2800 million (2 arab 80 crore) |
| C2 | C1 | 2500 million (2.5 billion) | 700 million (70 crore) |
| C2 | CB | 4500 million (4.5 billion) | 1750 million (1 arab 75 crore) |
| C2 | CA | No Limit | 2800 million (2 arab 80 crore) |
| C1 | CB | 4500 million (4.5 billion) | 1750 million (1 arab 75 crore) |
| C1 | CA | No Limit | 2800 million (2 arab 80 crore) |
| CB | CA | No Limit | 2800 million (2 arab 80 crore) |
PEC Firm License Upgradation – Step-by-Step Guide
PEC Firm Upgradation Formula:
“70% Work Orders/Purchase Orders of the Preceding Category for the Desired Category.” For example, one want to upgrade from C6 to C3 category,then here the desired category is C3 and preceding category is c4,so one requires 70% work order of the category c4 financial limit.C4 financial limit is 200million or 20 crore and its 70% is 140million or 14 crore.
Upgrading your PEC firm license allows your company to bid for higher-value contracts and take on larger infrastructure projects. Below is a detailed breakdown of upgradation requirements, including the financial limit, work experience, and engineer requirements for each category.
C6 to C5 PEC Firm License Upgradation
Requirements:
✔ Financial Limit for C5 Category: Up to 65 million PKR per project
✔ Work Experience (Completed Projects in Last 3 Years): 17 million PKR (1 crore 70 lac)
✔ Engineer Requirement: 5 PCPs (Professional Credit Points)
Description:
Upgrading to C5 allows a firm to bid on projects valued up to 65 million PKR. To qualify, the firm must provide work order records totaling at least 17 million PKR over the past 3 years and ensure 5 PCPs are met.
C6 to C4 PEC Firm License Upgradation
Requirements:
✔ Financial Limit for C4 Category: Up to 200 million PKR per project
✔ Work Experience (Completed Projects in Last 3 Years): 45.5 million PKR (4 crore 50 lac)
✔ Engineer Requirement: 15 PCPs (Professional Credit Points)
Description:
A C4 license allows firms to take on projects up to 200 million PKR. To upgrade, a firm must have completed projects worth 45.5 million PKR and secure 15 PCPs.
C6 to C3 PEC Firm License Upgradation
Requirements:
✔ Financial Limit for C3 Category: Up to 500 million PKR per project
✔ Work Experience (Completed Projects in Last 3 Years): 140 million PKR (14 crore)
✔ Engineer Requirement: 20 PCPs (Professional Credit Points)
Description:
Upgrading to C3 enables a firm to bid for projects up to 500 million PKR. Firms must show completed work orders totaling 140 million PKR and have 20 PCPs.
C6 to C2 PEC Firm License Upgradation
Requirements:
✔ Financial Limit for C2 Category: Up to 1000 million PKR (1 billion) per project
✔ Work Experience (Completed Projects in Last 3 Years): 350 million PKR (35 crore)
✔ Engineer Requirement: 35 PCPs, at least 1 Professional Engineer & 1 Trainee Engineer (Mandatory)
Description:
A C2 license allows firms to handle projects up to 1 billion PKR. The firm must provide proof of completed projects worth 350 million PKR and maintain a team with at least 35 PCPs, including 1 Professional Engineer and 1 Trainee Engineer.
C5 to C4 PEC Firm License Upgradation
Requirements:
✔ Financial Limit for C4 Category: Up to 200 million PKR per project
✔ Work Experience (Completed Projects in Last 3 Years): 45.5 million PKR (4 crore 50 lac)
✔ Engineer Requirement: 15 PCPs
C5 to C3 PEC Firm License Upgradation
Requirements:
✔ Financial Limit for C3 Category: Up to 500 million PKR per project
✔ Work Experience (Completed Projects in Last 3 Years): 140 million PKR (14 crore)
✔ Engineer Requirement: 20 PCPs
C5 to C2 PEC Firm License Upgradation
Requirements:
✔ Financial Limit for C2 Category: Up to 1000 million PKR (1 billion) per project
✔ Work Experience (Completed Projects in Last 3 Years): 350 million PKR (35 crore)
✔ Engineer Requirement: 35 PCPs, at least 1 Professional Engineer & 1 Trainee Engineer (Mandatory)
C3 to C1 PEC Firm License Upgradation
Requirements:
✔ Financial Limit for C1 Category: Up to 2500 million PKR (2.5 billion) per project
✔ Work Experience (Completed Projects in Last 3 Years): 700 million PKR (70 crore)
✔ Engineer Requirement: 90 PCPs, 2 Professional Engineers (15+ years of experience) & 2 Trainee Engineers (Mandatory)
C3 to CB PEC Firm License Upgradation
Requirements:
✔ Financial Limit for CB Category: Up to 4500 million PKR (4.5 billion) per project
✔ Work Experience (Completed Projects in Last 3 Years): 1750 million PKR (1 arab 75 crore)
✔ Engineer Requirement: 120 PCPs, 3 Trainees or Fresh Engineers & 2 Professional Engineers (20+ years of experience)
C3 to CA PEC Firm License Upgradation
Requirements:
✔ Financial Limit for CA Category: No upper limit on project value
✔ Work Experience (Completed Projects in Last 3 Years): 2800 million PKR (2 arab 80 crore)
✔ Engineer Requirement: 200 PCPs, 5 Trainees & 2 Professional Engineers (20+ years of experience)
PEC Firm Upgradation Fee Structure
| Current Category | Targeted Category | Upgradation Fee (PKR) |
|---|---|---|
| C6 | C5 | 45,000 |
| C6 | C4 | 105,000 |
| C6 | C3 | 240,000 |
| C6 | C2 | 390,000 |
| C5 | C4 | 75,000 |
| C5 | C3 | 180,000 |
| C5 | C2 | 405,000 |
| C4 | C3 | 120,000 |
| C4 | C2 | 295,000 |
| C3 | C2 | 200,000 |
| C3 | C1 | 375,000 |
| C3 | CB | 825,000 |
| C3 | CA | 1,275,000 |
| C2 | C1 | 375,000 |
| C2 | CB | 625,000 |
| C2 | CA | 1,325,000 |
| C1 | CB | 375,000 |
| C1 | CA | 950,000 |
| CB | CA | 650,000 |
Final Thoughts
✔ PEC upgradation allows firms to qualify for bigger projects
✔ The “70% work order rule” ensures firms have relevant experience
✔ Higher categories require financial strength and qualified engineers
If you need assistance with PEC firm license upgradation, documentation, or application processing, contact us today!
Conclusion
Upgrading your PEC firm registration is a strategic move for business growth. By following the right steps and ensuring proper documentation, you can successfully upgrade your PEC category and unlock new project opportunities. Stay compliant, maintain transparency, and leverage professional help if needed to fast-track your upgradation process.
For expert guidance, contact us today and streamline your PEC firm upgradation hassle-free!
1. What is PEC Firm Upgradation?
PEC Firm Upgradation refers to the process of moving a firm to a higher category within the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) registration system. This allows firms to undertake larger projects with higher financial limits.
Why should I upgrade my PEC firm registration?
Upgrading your PEC firm offers several benefits, including:
Increased project bidding capacity
Improved market reputation
Qualification for government contracts
Compliance with PEC regulations
Enhanced client trust and credibilityWhat are the categories in PEC firm registration?
PEC categorizes firms from C-6 (entry-level) to CA (highest level) based on financial worth and experience. The categories include:
C-6 → C-5 → C-4 → C-3 → C-2 → C-1 → CB → CAWhat are the methods for PEC firm upgradation?
Work Order Basis – Firms provide verified work orders and completion certificates.
Engineer Partnership Basis – Firms partner with a PEC-registered engineer with at least 51% shareholding.What documents are required for upgradation on a work order basis?
For private or semi-government projects:
Work orders
Completion certificates (60% project completion required)
Payment proof (25% transaction proof)
For government/public sector projects:
Work orders
Completion certificates (no payment proof required)What is the PEC upgradation formula?
PEC follows the “70% Work Order Rule,” meaning firms must show completed work orders totaling at least 70% of the financial limit of the preceding category of the the desired category.
How long does the PEC firm upgradation process take?
The process typically takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on document verification and compliance with PEC requirements.
What are the PEC firm license upgradation fees?
C6 to C5: PKR 45,000
C6 to C4: PKR 105,000
C6 to C2: PKR 390,000
C3 to CA: PKR 1,275,000Where can I get professional assistance for PEC upgradation?
At Alpha Engineering & Consulting, we provide expert assistance for PEC firm upgradation, documentation, and compliance.