Here we address some of the most frequently asked questions and misconceptions people may have about CIHT membership. So if you are considering joining, upgrading your own membership, or encouraging (or even sponsoring) a colleague to apply, please read on.

Who can join CIHT?

CIHT has a wide range of membership grades meaning that there is a category of membership for everyone. You may be working in a related field, studying towards an engineering or transport planning qualification or simply have a passion for highways and transportation. For more information, please visit Membership for Individuals 

Which type of membership is there for me?

CIHT has six categories of membership:
• Apprentice
• Student
• Graduate (GradCIHT)
• Associate (AMCIHT)
• Member (MCIHT)
• Fellow (FCIHT)

Reinstating your membership

If you held a membership previously with CIHT membership, you can rejoin easily. Visit our dedicated page for full details on how to reinstate your membership, including fees and the simple reactivation process: Reinstate your membership

Updating your primary email address

If you need to update your primary email address, please contact our Membership Team directly at: membership@ciht.org.uk
This change cannot be made through your MyCIHT profile.

When can I apply?

You can apply at any time throughout the year. Our membership year runs from 1 January to 31 December, and you can join at any point in the year, and your fee will be pro-rated so you only pay from the month you join until the end of the year.

How does it take to be approved? 

• Applications for Student, Graduate, Associate, and Member grades are usually processed within 2–4 working days.
• Fellowship applications may take 4–6 weeks, depending on volume.
  To help speed things up, make sure your application is fully completed and respond promptly to any additional requests.

When will I receive my Certificate?

Digital certificate's are sent weekly to newly elected/upgraded members. You can also ask for digital certificate by emailing membership@ciht.org.uk and then physical certificate by request of filling out this form: Request Certificate.

Do I need a degree to join?

No, a degree is not required to become a CIHT member.

What if I do not have an accredited qualification?

You can still apply. While some professional registrations may require accredited qualifications, CIHT assesses all membership applications based on experience.

How much does it cost?

Fees vary depending on your membership grade. Visit our Membership Fees page for the most up-to-date information.

Can I pay a reduced fee?

Yes – we offer concessions for certain situations for current members (e.g. career breaks, unemployment).

Is the fee tax deductable?

In the UK, yes. As a UK HMRC-approved professional body, membership fees qualify for a tax deduction. Outside the UK, you will need to check with your local tax authority

What is the difference between being a CIHT member and becoming professionally qualified?

When joining CIHT, you automatically receive post-nominals depending on your grade of membership. Chartered Engineer is an award/designation separate from Membership. You have to apply for Professional Qualifications such as CEng, IEng, EngTech, and CTPP represent a formal, independently assessed level of competence in your field. This will provide you with additional post nominal.

• Chartered Engineer — CEng
• Incorporated Engineer — IEng
• Engineering Technician — EngTech
• Chartered Transport Planning Professional — CTPP

Does CIHT offer any assistance become professionally qualified?

Yes, CIHT is licensed to award CEng, IEng, EngTech, and CTPP. As a member, you will receive structured guidance and support throughout the professional review process.

CIHT can also help you find a mentor. A mentor can be key to supporting you on your journey to professional registration. You can register to be matched with one on the CIHT mentoring platform and complete your profile to be matched with a mentor who can guide and support you on your journey.  

Am I eligible to become professionally qualified ?

To find if you are eligible to become professionally qualified please complete our Initial Assessment so that CIHT can advise you on the best route.

This short form takes less than five minutes and requires only your CV and any relevant certificates. You will receive an initial assessment outcome by email within five working days. Another other questions please contact education@ciht.org.uk.

Can I be a member of CIHT without becoming chartered?

Yes, there may be a significant number of members across all our grades who, because of their role or their circumstances, won’t need or want to be chartered. Membership of CIHT demonstrates a high level of competence and this continues to be recognised within the highways and transportation profession.

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