Engineering remains one of the most prestigious professions globally. Whether in Kenya or elsewhere, the demand for engineers continues to grow, especially in vital sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing, water, and infrastructure. In Kenya, the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) serves as the statutory body responsible for the registration, accreditation, and regulation of engineering professionals. If you’re aiming to join the ranks of certified engineers or start a consulting firm, this guide walks you through the entire registration process.
What is the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK)?
The EBK was established under the Engineers Act of 2011 and operates as the regulatory body overseeing the engineering profession in Kenya. The Board accredits engineering programs offered at universities and ensures that professionals uphold ethical standards and technical competence. Beyond regulating individuals, the EBK also oversees consulting firms, offering guidelines and accreditation for engineering businesses.
Why Register with EBK?
If you’re planning to work as an engineer in Kenya, registering with EBK is not just a legal requirement but a crucial step in establishing your professional credentials. Being registered provides recognition, helps build trust with clients, and opens doors for lucrative projects, especially in sectors supported by the government’s Big Four Agenda—universal healthcare, affordable housing, manufacturing, and food security. Engineers play a vital role in all these areas, making registration with EBK essential for participation in these development programs.
Steps to Register as a Graduate Engineer
1. Educational Qualifications:
To qualify as a graduate engineer, you must hold a degree in engineering from a recognized institution. Foreign degree holders must provide transcripts and the university’s contact information for verification.
2. Application Process:
- Fill out the application form, available on the EBK website or at their customer desk.
- Submit certified copies of your academic certificates, ID card, and two passport-sized photos.
- Pay the application fee of Ksh 4,000 through the National Bank of Kenya or via M-Pesa using the EBK pay bill number 839300.
3. Approval Process:
After submission, the EBK reviews your application and notifies you in writing whether your application has been approved. Once approved, you will be issued a registration certificate as a graduate engineer.
Steps to Register as a Professional Engineer
Professional engineers in Kenya must meet the following criteria:
- Qualifications:
Be registered with EBK as a graduate engineer and have at least three years of relevant work experience under a registered professional engineer. - Application Requirements:
- Fill out the professional engineer application form.
- Provide certified copies of your degree certificate, ID, EBK graduate engineer certificate, and your CV.
- Pay an application fee of Ksh 10,000.
- Technical Evaluation and Interview:
Once your documents are reviewed and your referees contacted, you may be required to sit for a professional interview conducted by the Board. Successful candidates will be awarded a professional engineer’s certificate.
Steps to Register as a Consulting Engineer
Consulting engineers are responsible for advising clients on specialized engineering projects. To register as a consulting engineer:
- Qualifications:
- Be registered with EBK as a professional engineer.
- Have at least nine years of continuous professional experience, five of which must be post-registration as a professional engineer.
- Documents Required:
- Degree certificates, ID, EBK professional engineer certificate, IEK membership certificate, and two passport photos.
- A fee of Ksh 20,000.
- Professional Interview:
After the submission and review of your application, you will undergo a technical evaluation and a professional interview before registration.
How to Register an Engineering Consulting Firm in Kenya
Consulting firms in Kenya must meet specific requirements, including:
- All shareholders must be professional engineers.
- One principal shareholder must be a consulting engineer and hold the power of attorney.
- Foreign firms must be at least 51% Kenyan-owned.
Application Process:
- Fill the EBK Form EBK4 and submit it with the following:
- Certified documents such as the certificate of incorporation, business registration, academic and professional certificates of employed engineers, and statutory declarations for directors.
- Ksh 2,000 processing fee, Ksh 30,000 registration fee, and Ksh 30,000 annual license fee for local firms. Foreign firms pay Ksh 500,000 and Ksh 750,000, respectively.
- Approval:
After review, the Board will notify you in writing of the application status.
Registration for Foreign Engineers
Temporary registration is available for foreign engineers working on specific projects in Kenya. Requirements include:
- A practicing license from their home country.
- Proof of experience from previous employers.
- A fee of Ksh 150,000.
Additional Categories: Accredited Checkers
Experienced consulting engineers with over 15 years of experience can apply to become accredited checkers. This role involves reviewing engineering designs and ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
Becoming a registered engineer in Kenya or starting an engineering consulting firm requires navigating the well-defined processes established by the EBK. Whether you’re a fresh graduate, a seasoned professional, or a foreign engineer, the EBK ensures that only qualified individuals and firms participate in shaping Kenya’s engineering landscape. By adhering to these guidelines, you not only comply with national regulations but also enhance your career prospects and professional standing in the industry.
Key Payment Details for EBK Applications:
- Bank Name: National Bank of Kenya, Hill Plaza Branch
- Account Number: 01001031539000
- M-PESA Pay Bill Number: 839300
